bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Implementation of Remote Online Assessments in the Undergraduate Medical Education: A Students’ Satisfaction Survey from a Developing Country
Authors: Ali Syed Muhammad Hammad , Zil-E-Ali Ahsan , Chaudhry Minahil Fatima , Khalil Javed , Asim Malik 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Background
COVID-19 pandemic brought on new challenges to medical education with regards to the transition to online education and examination methods. The purpose of this study was to understand the issues encountered during the implementation of a remote online system of examination and the student satisfaction, in undergraduate settings of a low-income country.
Methodology:
Our study includes data from a diverse population of five undergraduate classes of medicine and four classes from dentistry of a private medical school. A Remote Online Assessment (ROA) system was designed using free software to transform the traditional in-person high-stakes examination into an online equivalent. The first phase consisted of three principal activities with appropriate student training leading to a summative online exam at the end of it. Each activity was coupled with student feedback the detailed analysis of which guided the implementation process.
Results
More than 800 students took part in the implementation process of ROA. Feedback at all three intervals showed a significantly higher level of satisfaction in the clinical year students than in the preclinical. The overall satisfaction rate was lower among female students. The highest level of satisfaction was achieved after online one-on-one training of students in smaller groups with mini-mock exams. The most commonly identified obstacles were the insufficient time for exam completion (n = 614) and internet speed and connectivity issue (n = 470). While the majority of the students regarded this novel ROA not better than the traditional in-person examination, they acknowledged its significance in helping them continue their studies and prepare for their mid-term summative exam syllabus.
Conclusions
Unfamiliarity with online learning systems could impede the implementation of ROA in low-income countries. Conducting multiple online mock activities coupled with training in short groups with more focus on females and preclinical students can lead to satisfaction regarding such an online examination system.
Decoupling the Impact of Financial Sector Development on Income Inequality in Africa: Further Insights from Geographical Regions and Governance Factors
Authors: Ashenafi Biruk , Dong Yan 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The current literature on the finance-inequality nexus lacks evidence in decoupling the impact of banking and the stock market on income inequality in Africa. Besides, the analysis is limited to the continental level without accounting for geographic regions and governance differences. We offer an answer on how financial sector development affects income inequality in Africa by isolating the impact of the banking, stock market, and composite index. The paper identified the heterogeneous effect by geographical regions and incorporated the role of governance from 1980 to 2017 across 49 African countries. Using a panel data fixed effect regression and two-stage least squared estimation techniques (2sls), we show that the banking, stock market, and the composite development widens income inequality. The relationship corroborates an inverted U shape hypothesis. Besides, corruption and political instability are essential elements in exacerbating income inequality. The geographical region configuration also shows that the continental level effect is highly driven by financial development in the Northern and Southern African countries. The direct implication of our result is that the current financial development in Africa is not inclusive, and the credit is directed to people who already access financial services. We highlight that financial inclusion, digitalization, easing the cost of borrowing money, ensuring good governance, and pro-poor financial development reverses the relationship presented in this paper.
A Systematic Literature Review on Software- refactoring Techniques, Challenges, and Practices
Authors: Akhtar Salwa Muhammad , Nazir Makia , Ali Arshad , Khan Ahmed Salman , Atif Muhammad 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Software-refactoring improves the quality and reduces the complexity during the whole life cycle of the software system. The objective of this work is to elicit the existing challenges and refactoring techniques and practices to counter those challenges. This study presents a systematic literature review based upon the scientific literature published since January 2000. After rigorously applying the SLR protocol defined by Barbara Kitchenham, we identify 36 articles discussing software- refactoring challenges, techniques, and practices. We point out complexity, understandability, and maintainability as three challenges of traditional software engineering that are resolved by software-refactoring. This SLR identifies assertions, program slicing, graph transformation, software metrics, and metamodeling, as five commonly used refactoring techniques. Moreover, eight main challenges of software-refactoring, namely determining refactoring and code location, selecting refactoring type and technique, managing refactoring dependency, consistency maintenance, refactoring ordering and increase in testing cost, are also highlighted. The findings of this work suggest that software-refactoring techniques can resolve challenges of traditional software engineering.
Straw decomposition: profound effect of incorporation than irrigation
Authors: Yang Lei , Zhou Jie , Zamanian Kazem , Zhang Kai , Zhao Jie , Zang Huadong , Yang Yadong , Zeng Zhaohai 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Aims The peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) straw decomposition process was investigated to understand the determinant factors governing the decomposition rate and the nutrient release from straw.Methods A two-year field experiment was carried out with two factors: two irrigation regimes (without and with irrigation at wheat flowering stage) and three straw incorporation rates (3, 6, and 9 t ha-1). The filled nylon mesh bags with straw buried at 20 cm soil depth. The residual straw weight, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) content were measured as nylon mesh bags were sampled.Results The decomposition dynamics of labile and intermediate pools were similar based on the 3-pool model analysis. Straw incorporation rate rather than irrigation regime controlled the decomposition process, which increased with incorporation rates. At the high incorporation rate, the released N, P, and K were approximately to 39%, 30%, and 87% of the required regional fertilizer input for winter wheat, respectively. Furthermore, the released N from straw decomposition was strongly related to the released K as indicated by the stoichiometry ratio. The random forest model predicted that temperature, precipitation, and initial straw nutrients were the main drivers for peanut straw decomposition, especially at the early stage. Conclusions We revealed the nutrient stoichiometry and release characteristics of in situ peanut straw decomposition, and found that incorporation rate exhibits a profound effect than irrigation on the decomposition process.
Why is the Shift from Brown Economy to Green Economy Important in South Asian Economies? A Panel Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Kousar Shazia , Bhutta Aamir Inam , Ullah Muhammad Rizwan , Shabbir Aiza 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
To achieve economic growth is the prime concern for both the developed and developing economies. This study, thus, frames that “why is the shift from brown economic growth to green economic growth important?” To achieve this, the study empirically investigates that how traditional and green GDP contribute towards the level of poverty, inequality and environmental degradation. In this regard, the study collects data for the period of 2000-2018 from five South Asian economies (Pakistan, India, Sri-Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh). The study applies CIPS unit-root and Westerlund co-integration tests to identify the order of integration and co-integration relation among variables. Furthermore, DOLS and FMOLS are used to test the hypotheses. The study finds that both traditional (brown) GDP and green GDP have negative impact on poverty and inequality, however, green GDP contributes more than traditional GDP in reducing poverty and inequality. Moreover, the study shows positive (negative) impact of traditional GDP (green GDP) on environmental degradation indicating that green GDP helps improving the quality of environment. Hence, it is crucial to shift from brown to green economy as it reduces (improves) poverty and inequalities (environmental quality). The study recommends substituting traditional growth patterns with green growth patterns to deal with economic problems in South Asia.
Therapeutic intervention of Chenopodium quinoa seeds extract against cigarette smoke-induced acute lung injury
Authors: Majeed Lubna , Faisal Muhammad Naeem , Khan Junaid Ali , Majeed Wafa 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Lung is the prime organ for respiration, facing health issues when exposed to environment. Acute lung injury due to direct and indirect stimuli provokes an inflammatory response resulting in alveolar epithelial barrier dysfunction, increase membrane permeability and ultimately pulmonary edema. Approximately eight million deaths were reported each year with direct or indirect exposure to smoke. Current study was designed to elucidate the therapeutic efficacy of Chenopodium quinoa seeds extract against cigarette smoke-induced pathophysiological alterations in the lung parenchyma. Results revealed that serum oxidative marker (TOS) were significantly (P <0.05) reduced in all the treatment groups in comparison to control positive group while, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was significantly (P <0.05) increased in all the treatment groups in comparison to control positive group. Gene expression analysis result indicated highly significant (P <0.05) down regulation of Nrf-2 signaling pathway (Keap-1, NFR-1 and Nfe-212) and dual-oxidases (Duox, Duoxa-1, and Duox-2) in all the treatment groups in comparison to control positive group. Histopathology of the lung tissues indicated the decreased infiltration of leukocytes at the site of alveoli and decreased hyaline membrane thickening in all the treatment groups in comparison to control positive group. Overall results concluded that the therapeutic efficacy of Chenopodium quinoa seeds extract against cigarette smoke-induced pathophysiological alterations in the lung parenchyma due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficacy to restore lung homeostasis.
The green tea catechin EGCG provides proof-of-concept for a pan-coronavirus attachment inhibitor
Authors: Colpitts Che C. , LeBlanc Emmanuelle V. 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has emphasized the serious threat to human health posed by emerging coronaviruses. Effective broadly-acting antiviral countermeasures are urgently needed to prepare for future emerging CoVs, as vaccine development is not compatible with a rapid response to a newly emerging virus. The green tea catechin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), has broad-spectrum antiviral activity, although its mechanisms against coronavirus (CoV) infection have remained unclear. Here, we show that EGCG prevents human and murine CoV infection and blocks the entry of lentiviral particles pseudotyped with spike proteins from bat or highly pathogenic CoVs, including SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern, in lung epithelial cells. Mechanistically, EGCG treatment reduces CoV attachment to target cell surfaces by interfering with attachment to cell-surface glycans. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans are a required attachment factor for SARS-CoV-2 and are shown here to be important in endemic HCoV-OC43 infection. We show that EGCG can compete with heparin, a heparan sulfate analog, for virion binding. Our results highlight heparan sulfate as a conserved cell attachment factor for CoVs, and demonstrate the potential for the development of pan-coronavirus attachment inhibitors, which may be useful to protect against future emerging CoVs.
Psychometric testing of the Medicines Related – Consultation Assessment Tool using recorded simulated consultations and pharmacy educators to investigate tool validity and interrater/intrarater reliability.
Authors: Middleton Helen , Grimes Lesley , Wills Sarah , Steinke Douglas , Shaw Matthew 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
BackgroundDemonstrating a person-centred approach in a consultation is a key component of delivering high-quality healthcare. To support development of such an approach requires training underpinned by valid assessment tools. Given the lack of a pharmacy-specific tool, a new global consultation skills assessment tool: the Medicines Related – Consultation Assessment Tool (MR-CAT) was designed and tested.AimThis study aimed to test the validity and reliability of the MR-CAT CAT using psychometric methods.MethodsPsychometric testing involved analysis of participants’ (n = 13) assessment of fifteen pre-recorded simulated consultations using the MR-CAT. Analysis included discriminant validity testing, intrarater and interrater reliability testing, and internal consistency testing for each of the five sections of the MR-CAT. ResultsInternal consistency for the overall global assessment and each of the five sections of the MR-CAT was good (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.97). The MR-CAT discriminated well at the global level (p <0.001). Moderate to high intrarater reliability was observed at the global level and for all sections of the MR-CAT (rho = 0.64 – 0.84) in the test-retest analysis. Moderate to good interrater reliability (Kendall’s W = 0.68 – 0.90) was observed at the global level and for all sections of the MR-CAT. ConclusionsThe MR-CAT is a valid and reliable tool for assessing person-centred pharmacy consultations. Moreover, its unique design means that the MR-CAT can be used in both formative and summative assessment.
The Effect of Intellectual Capital Efficiency on the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Ethiopia
Authors: Tegegne Habtamu Getachew 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The study examines the role of intellectual capital efficiency and its components on financial performance of commercial banks. To achieve study objectives Pulic 1998 value added intellectual coefficient is adopted to measure the effect of intellectual capital efficiency. The study adopted explanatory research design with arrangement of secondary data analysis via document analysis, quantitative approach, and deductive method of inquiry. Panel data used with a sample of 13 banks over the study period 2010/11-2017/18. Descriptive and regression analysis were performed to analyze the data using STATA 12. Econometric model estimation procedures and multiple regression assumptions were tested accordingly. The fixed effect regression result revealed that human capital efficiency has positive significant associated with financial performance. Whereas, capital employed efficiency and structural capital efficiency was positive and negative insignificant impact on financial performance. While, the random effect regression result also proposed value added intellectual capital and bank size have positively associated with financial performance. However, bank specific factors (Tangibility of asset and Leverage) and Macroeconomic factors (Gross domestic product and Inflation) have positive and negative respectively, but statically insignificant with financial performance of commercial banks in Ethiopia.
Cold Plasma Based Enhancement of Colonization of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) and Fungal Resistance of Seeds
Authors: Nayab Nabiha , Rafique Muhammad Shahid , Aftab Muhammad Nauman , Mohsin Tahira , Ramzan Minahil , Arshad Tehreem , Tariq Rabia 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma has been proposed as an emerging tool for improving the motility and activity of Plant Growing Promoting Bacteria (PGPB). The main objective of this research is to enhance the functional activity of isolated bacterial strain of Bacillus lichenformis (Plant growth Rhizobacteria) by treating this cultural strain under Cold Micro Plasma at atmospheric pressure in the presence of magnetic field and without magnetic field. The plasma treated and untreated bacterial strain have been inoculated in different apple seeds. In order to see the germination rate, these seeds were placed in petri plates and to check the growth, these seeds were planted in pots. It is observed that the seeds treated with plasma without magnetic field show faster germination rate and growth of apple seeds in their dormancy period, whereas seeds treated with plasma in the presence of magnetic field exibit enhanced fungal resistance. Micro cold plasma has been observed to improve seed’s sprouting and germination, plant production during dormancy period and enhanced plant’s fungus resistance.
Effective adsorption of Pb 2+ on porous carbon derived from functional Octadecahedron ZIF-8
Authors: Chen Menglan , Wang Hongxia , Song Fangxiang , Zeng Xian , Wu Nian , Luo Honghuan , Cai Xiaoqin , Li Yan 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
An adsorbent ZO (oxidized ZIF-8-derived carbon) was prepared on the ZIF-8-derived carbon (ZC) by Hummer's method. The removal rate and adsorption amount of Pb2+ was measured on different molar ratio of 2-Hmim to 2, 2 '-bipyridine in ZO, including 1:1 (1:1 ZO) and 1:2 (1:2 ZO). The adsorption experiments show that the best condition to adsorb Pb2+ in Pb2+ solution for 1:1 ZO is adsorbent dosage of 20 mg, adsorption time of 16 h, initial Pb2+concentration of 15 mg/L, and pH = 3; that for 1:2 ZO is adsorbent dosage of 15 mg, adsorption time of 18 h, initial Pb2+ concentration of 15 mg/L, and pH = 4. The adsorption data fits the quasi-second-order kinetics and the Langmuir adsorption model. The competitive adsorption results show that 1:1 ZO and 1:2 ZO have a superior selectivity for Pb2+ competing with Cu2+ and Fe2+.This study shows 1:2 ZO is more helpful for the removal of Pb2+ than 1:1 ZO.
The stability of multi-component plasmas subjected to sheared flows parallel to the background magnetic field
Authors: Shahzad K. , Aman Aman-ur-Rehman , Hamza Muhammad Yousaf 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Shear flow instability is studied in multi-component plasma. The excitation of low frequency electrostatic instabilities in a collision less plasmas of two system of species (H+, O+, e−) and (H−, O+, e−) is studied. Inertialess electrons follow the Boltzmenian distribution. The massive ions (oxygen) and the light species (hydrogen) provide the inertia. Light ions may be both positive hydrogen as well as negative hydrogen ions. Many authors have generally neglected the low concentration of hydrogen ions in oxygen plasma of ionosphere, but we have pointed out that the hydrogen ions as impurity plays a significant role to increase the growth rate of ion acoustic wave (IAW). We study the effect of shear on the following two systems of species separately and then compare the results of two systems numerically. We observed that in presence of shear the growth rate of the system with negative hydrogen ion is larger than with positive hydrogen ion. Fluid theory is used to study the three cases of ion-acoustic perturbations with same shear flow, different shear flow and zero shear flow. The kinetic model is used to study the effects of electron current in presence of negative shear flow. Ion-acoustic waves (IAWs) can easily be excited and overflow the heavy ion Landau damping either by electron parallel current or sheared flows of ion species. Our results may helpful to solve possible applications of low frequency space and laboratory plasmas.
Unraveling the molecular cues of sophorolipid-caped gold-nanoparticle induced ROS stress and apoptotsis-like cell death in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Shikha Sristy , Kumar Vineet , Jain Ankita , Dutta Dipak , Bhattacharyya Mani Shankar 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The discovery of nanoparticles exhibiting antimicrobial properties has emerged as one of the most promising therapeutic tools against an array of microbial pathogens. In this study, we investigated the influence of pH, temperature and sophorolipid (SL) concentration on the synthesis of gold nanoparticles. Synthesized sophorolipid capped gold nanoparticles (AuNPs-SL) were checked for antibacterial potential against Vibrio cholerae, as well as we investigated the molecular mechanism(s) underlying this activity. We found that AuNPs-SL treatment increases the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level that causes oxidative stress to the bacterial cells. The surge in ROS level further causes membrane depolarization, change in membrane permeability, and ATP depletion. Beside this, gene expression studies revealed overexpression of genes employed in the mitigation of high ROS levels, maintenance of membrane integrity and transport, DNA structure, and metal homeostasis. Furthermore, we also observed cell death (apoptosis) occur as a consequence of AuNPs-SL treatment in V. cholerae. Also, AuNPs-SL treatment increases membrane permeabilization that results in leakage of cellular contents such as protein and DNA.
A theoretical study of the valence tautomerism of 1H-pyrazolium-4-olates (X = O) and related compounds (X = S, Se, NH): Relative stabilities, protonation effects and tautomerization barriers
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero Jose 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
The valence isomerism of a series of heterocyclic mesomeric betaines (HMBs) belonging to class 5, called pseudo-semi-conjugated HMBs, have been studied theoretically both the neutral and the protonated species. These HMBs are 1H-pyrazol-2-ium-4-olates and related compounds where the oxygen atom has been replaced by S, Se atoms and an NH group. The main conclusion of the present work is that the ring/open valence tautomerism is possible both for neutral and protonated although it has never been observed experimentally.
A signal enhancement method based on the reverberation statistical information
Authors: YU Ge , Sun Jiangjiang , Li Xiukun 
Published: April 2022

Abstract
Reverberation is the main background interference in underwater active sonar target detection that seriously interferes with the extraction of target echo. In this paper, a signal enhancement algorithm utilizing fractional lower-order moments based on reverberation statistical distribution information is proposed. As fractional lower-order moments can only be applied on symmetric α-stable random variables, energy redistribution method is proposed to make reverberation signal satisfy the symmetric α-stable distribution. To evaluate the proposed algorithm, an experiment involving simulated linear frequency modulation reverberation with the proposed method and comparison methods is performed and discussed. Moreover, an experiment is conducted using reverberation as measured from the lake. The results show that the proposed algorithm can achieve better reverberation suppression and signal enhancement performance compared with other methods.