bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haematological and metabolic profiles associated with age and sex in giant kokopu (Galaxias argenteus) (Gmelin 1789) broodstock
Authors: Lulijwa Ronald , Alfaro Andrea C. , Venter Leonie , Young Tim , Decker Paul , Merien Fabrice , Meyer Jill
Published: March 2021

This study characterized selected peripheral blood (PB) haematological parameters, liver, serum and muscle metabolic features in 3‐ and 5‐year‐old male and female giant kokopu (Galaxias argenteus) broodstock reared indoor at 16°C. Sex and age did not affect PB total cell count and haematocrit values. Nonetheless, higher erythrocytes in 5‐year‐old fish, elevated thrombocyte and lymphocyte counts in 3‐year‐old fish indicate age‐specific cellular regulation. Higher thrombocyte counts in female fish suggest sex‐specific regulation. At a metabolic level, liver abundance for long chain saturated fatty acids (FAs) was higher in males, whereas females had elevated levels of polyunsaturated FAs. Essential and non‐essential amino acids (AAs) in liver and serum were also elevated in females compared to males. These findings suggest differential allocation of FAs and AAs to reflect requirements for gonadal, development and provisioning. Similarly, age significantly resulted in higher liver and serum abundances of some non‐essential AAs in 3‐year‐olds compared to 5‐year‐old fish, suggesting higher metabolism in younger fish. Overall, results enhance our understanding of sex‐ and age‐based differences in fish haematology, muscle, liver, and serum metabolite profiles in healthy G. argenteus. Future studies should carefully consider potential age‐ and sex‐specific differences in metabolic responses.
Lysophosphatidylcholine exerts an anti‐skin photoaging effect via heat shock protein 70 induction
Authors: Hwang Hyunmin , Chun Hyeyeon , Kim Daehyun , Shin Munju , Kim Yun‐Sun , In Sohyun , Kim Taeyoon , Kang Nae‐Gyu
Published: March 2021

Objective

Skin‐brightening agents prevent melanogenesis and reduce melanin production. However, a lower melanin content leads to weaker protection against sunlight. In this study, we evaluated the effect of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) and its commercial‐grade product, Lysofix Dry™ (LD), on heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression in epidermal cells and their anti‐skin photoaging effect against ultraviolet B (UVB) and blue light.

Methods

The HSP70 induction was detected using ELISA. To confirm the inhibition of melanin synthesis by LPC or LD, the melanin content assay and gene expression were analyzed. Cell viability was assessed to verify whether LPC or LD prevents photo‐induced skin damage. The split‐face test was performed to confirm skin‐brightening effect of LD. Cream formulation with 2% of LD and placebo were used for 8 weeks, and skin brightness (L) was measured with chromameter (CR‐400, Konica Minolta).

Results

LPC‐ and LD‐induced HSP70 expression in epidermal cells. LPC and LD effectively suppressed melanogenesis provoked by α‐MSH in B16 cells. They also inhibited the mRNA transcription of MITF and tyrosinase under blue light irradiation. LD increased the viability of B16 and HaCaT cells after UVB and blue light irradiation in vitro. The cream containing 2% LD increased ΔL by 1.7 after 8 weeks of use, whereas the placebo led to an increase of 0.7.

Conclusion

LPC and LD were effective in suppressing melanogenesis and enhancing cell viability under UVB and blue light via HSP70 expression. Thus, they can be considered as potent skin‐brightening agents with protective effects against skin photoaging.
The roles of sucrose on the retronasal thresholds of tea catechins and polyphenols in water‐based system
Authors: Oh Hyeona , Kim Mina K.
Published: March 2021

The objective of this study was to determine the role of sucrose in the retronasal detection thresholds of caffeine, theobromine, and tea catechins, including epicatechin gallate (ECG), epigallocatechin (EGC), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), gallic acid (GA), and gallocatechin gallate (GCG), in a water‐based system. The detection threshold tests were conducted using standard practice for determination of taste thresholds by a forced choice ascending concentration series method of limits in ASTM E679‐05 on different water‐based matrices with varying degrees of sucrose levels. The Best Estimate Thresholds (BET) of caffeine, theobromine, ECG, EGC, EGCG, and GCG in water were 73.88, 70.83, 47.58, 40.03, 61.91, and 29.06 mg/kg, respectively. An increase in BETs was observed with an increased level of sucrose in the water‐based model for caffeine, and each of the catechins except theobromine and gallic acid. This result suggests a possible gallic acid‐sucrose interaction. This study reported the increase of detection threshold of bitter and astringency‐causing compounds with addition of sucrose in water‐base model system. This can provide another perspective of using sucrose to mask bitterness and astringency in coffee and tea products.

Practical applications

Consumption of coffee and tea has been increasing worldwide. Catechins and caffeine are the chemical compounds that give bitterness and astringency in green tea and coffee products, making consumers avoid these products. Reduction of bitterness and astringency in coffee and green tea products is crucial to expand the market. The outcome of this study indicated an increase in BETs with an increased level of sucrose in the water‐based model for caffeine, and each of the catechins except theobromine and gallic acid. This means that addition of sugar can help reducing bitterness and astringency perception by increasing individual threshold of such compound. Findings from this study can contribute beverage industry to reformulating their beverage products more appealing to their target consumers.
Second Language Vocabulary Acquisition: The Effects of Semantic Relatedness, Form Similarity, and Translation Direction
Authors: Kemp Lisa S. , McDonald Janet L.
Published: March 2021

Characteristics of vocabulary lists as well as study and test translation direction may affect the ease of learning second language (L2) vocabulary. We examined immediate and delayed test performance of first language (L1) English speakers learning a fixed set of L2 vocabulary placed on lists formed by crossing semantic relatedness (unrelated vs. related) with L2 orthographic form similarity (not similar vs. similar). During the study phase, half the participants translated from L2 to L1 and half from L1 to L2; tests were then taken in both directions. Semantic relatedness in the absence of form similarity improved accuracy when the first test taken translated from L2 to L1, and tended to hurt accuracy when the first test taken translated from L1 to L2; it sometimes increased confusion errors. Form similarity usually hurt accuracy and always increased confusion errors. The combination of the L1‐to‐L2 study direction with the optimal semantic and form conditions yielded the best long‐term performance.
Can a Neighborhood Fall Sick? Opioid Addiction, Collective Violence and Currents of Death in Contemporary India
Authors: Singh Bhrigupati
Published: March 2021

Opioid abuse is an increasingly global phenomenon. Rather than assuming it to be a uniformly global or neoliberal pathology, how might we better understand comparative and locally specific dimensions of opioid addiction? Working with neighborhoods as a unit of analysis, this article analyzes the striking differences between patterns of addiction and violence in two proximate and seemingly similar urban poor neighborhoods in Delhi, India. Rather than global or national etiologies, I suggest that an attention to sharp ecological variation within epidemics challenges social scientists to offer more fine‐grained diagnostics. Using a combination of quantitative and ethnographic methods, I show how heroin addiction and collective violence might be understood as expressions of what Durkheim called “suicido–genetic currents.” I suggest the idea of varying currents as an alternative to the sociology of neighborhood “effects” in understanding significant differences in patterns of self‐harm and injury across demographically similar localities.
The role of macrophages in Guillain‐Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Koike Haruki , Katsuno Masahisa
Published: March 2021

Macrophages play an important role in the pathogenesis of immune‐mediated neuropathies, particularly Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Early reports of pathological findings in patients with GBS and CIDP suggested demyelination resulting from phagocytosis of myelin by macrophages as the cause of aberrant nerve conduction in these diseases. Later studies established a concept that molecular mimicry of gangliosides in the peripheral nervous system to surface epitopes of pathogens results in the production of autoantibodies in patients with an axonal form of GBS. In some of the patients diagnosed with CIDP, IgG4 autoantibodies against paranodal junction proteins, such as neurofascin 155 and contactin 1, were found to induce aberrant nerve conduction resulting from the detachment of paranodal myelin terminal loops from axolemma. In contrast, the mechanisms of neuropathy in cases with classical macrophage‐induced demyelination are still to be elucidated. Electron microscopic examination suggested that macrophages recognize specific sites of myelinated fibers as the initial target of demyelination in both GBS and CIDP. It seems that the components that distinguish between the nodal regions, such as the nodes of Ranvier, paranodes, and internodes play a pivotal role in the behavior of macrophages that initiate the phagocytosis of myelin. Further studies are required to clarify the mechanisms of macrophage‐induced demyelination to facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies directed against the pathology of macrophages.
Dialysis initiation in older persons across centres and over time in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Ethier Isabelle , Campbell Scott B. , Cho Yeoungjee , Hawley Carmel M. , Isbel Nicole M. , Krishnasamy Rathika , Roberts Matthew A. , Semple David , Sypek Matthew , Viecelli Andrea K. , Johnson David W.
Published: March 2021

Aim

With improved life expectancy over time, the burden of kidney failure resulting in kidney replacement therapy (KRT) in older persons is increasing. This study aimed to describe the age distribution at dialysis initiation in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) across centres and over time.

Methods

Adults initiating dialysis as first KRT in ANZ from 1999 to 2018 reported to the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry were included. The primary outcomes were the age distribution and the proportion of older persons (75 years and older) initiating dialysis across centres and over time. Secondary outcomes were characterization of the older population compared with younger people and differences in dialysis modality and treatment trajectories between groups.

Results

Over the study period, 55 382 people initiated dialysis as first KRT, including 10 306 older persons, in 100 centres. Wide variation in age distribution across states/countries was noted, although the proportion of older persons at dialysis initiation did not significantly change over time (from 13% in 1999 to 19% in 2003, then remaining stable thereafter). Older persons were less likely to be treated with home therapies compared with younger people. Older persons were mostly Caucasians; had higher socioeconomic position, more cardiovascular comorbidities and higher eGFR at baseline; and resided in major cities. Higher proportions of older persons per centre were noted in privately funded facilities.

Conclusion

Wide variations were noted in the proportions of older persons initiating dialysis across centres and states/country, which were associated with different case‐mix across regions, particularly in terms of ethnicity, remoteness and socioeconomic advantage.
Porphyromonas gingivalis induced up‐regulation of PD‐L1 in colon carcinoma cells
Authors: Adel‐Khattab Doaa , Groeger Sabine , Domann Eugen , Chakraborty Trinad , Lochnit Günter , Meyle Joerg
Published: March 2021

Programmed death‐ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) is a ligand for programmed death receptor (PD‐1) that plays a major role in cell‐mediated immune response; it regulates T‐cell activation and regulates survival and functions of activated T cells. Expression of PD‐L1 can induce chronic inflammation and activate mechanisms of immune evasion. PD‐L1 is expressed in most of human carcinomas. Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) is a major keystone pathogen in periodontitis that invade host cells and disposes a variety of virulence factors. The aim of the present study was to clarify the signaling pathway of P. gingivalis molecules that induce PD‐L1 up‐regulation in colon carcinoma cells. Additionally, it was investigated which components of P. gingivalis are responsible for PD‐L1 induction. Colon cancer cells (CL‐11) were stimulated with total membrane (TM) fractions, peptidoglycans (PDGs) and viable P. gingivalis bacteria. Seven signaling molecule inhibitors were used: receptor‐interacting serine/threonine‐protein kinase 2 (RIP2) tyrosine kinase inhibitor, nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain (NOD)‐like receptor 1&2 inhibitor, NOD‐like receptor, nuclear factor kappa B inhibitor, c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases inhibitor, mitogen‐activated protein/extracellular signal‐regulated kinase inhibitor, mitogen activated kinase (MAPK) inhibitor. PD‐L1 protein expression was examined by western blot analysis and quantitative real time PCR. It was demonstrated that the TM fraction and PDG induced up‐regulation of PD‐L1 expression in colon cancer cells. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that PDG of P. gingivalis plays a major role in PD‐L1 up‐regulation in colon cancer cells. In addition, the mechanism of PD‐L1 up‐regulation depends on NOD 1 and NOD 2 and involves activation of RIP2 and MAPK signaling pathways.
Arabidopsis FAR‐RED ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL3 negatively regulates carbon starvation responses
Authors: Ma Lin , Li Gang
Published: March 2021

Light is one of the most important environmental factors that affects various cellular processes in plant growth and development; it is also crucial for the metabolism of carbohydrates as it provides the energy source for photosynthesis. Under extended darkness conditions, carbon starvation responses are triggered by depletion of stored energy. Although light rapidly inhibits starvation responses, the molecular mechanisms by which light signalling affects this process remain largely unknown. In this study, we showed that the Arabidopsis thaliana light signalling protein FAR‐RED ELONGATED HYPOCOTYL3 (FHY3) and its homolog FAR‐RED IMPAIRED RESPONSE1 (FAR1) are essential for plant survival after extended darkness treatment at both seedling and adult stages. Transmission electron microscopy analyses revealed that disruption of both FHY3 and FAR1 resulted in destruction of chloroplast envelopes and thylakoid membranes under extended darkness conditions. Furthermore, treatment with sucrose, but not glucose, completely rescued carbon starvation‐induced cell death in the rosette leaves and arrested early seedling establishment in the fhy3 far1 plants. We thus concluded that the light signalling proteins FHY3 and FAR1 negatively regulate carbon starvation responses in Arabidopsis.
Phylogeny and abiotic conditions shape the diel floral emission patterns of desert Brassicaceae species
Authors: Cna'ani Alon , Dener Efrat , Ben‐Zeev Efrat , Günther Jan , Köllner Tobias G. , Tzin Vered , Seifan Merav
Published: March 2021

A key facet of floral scent is diel fluctuations in emission, often studied in the context of plant‐pollinator interactions, while contributions of environment and phylogeny remain overlooked. Here, we ask if these factors are involved in shaping temporal variations in scent emission. To that end, we coupled light/dark floral emission measurements of 17 desert Brassicaceae species with environmental and phylogenetic data to explore the individual/combined impacts of these predictors on diel emission patterns. We further investigated these patterns by conducting high‐resolution emission measurements in a subset of genetically distant species with contrasting temporal dynamics. While diel shifts in magnitude and richness of emission were strongly affected by genetic relatedness, they also reflect the environmental conditions under which the species grow. Specifically, light/dark emission ratios were negatively affected by an increase in winter temperatures, known to impact both plant physiology and insect locomotion, and sandy soil fractions, previously shown to exert stress that tempers with diel metabolic rhythms. Additionally, the biosynthetic origins of the compounds were associated with their corresponding production patterns, possibly to maximize emission efficacy. Using a multidisciplinary chemical/ecological approach, we uncover and differentiate the main factors shaping floral scent diel fluctuations, highlighting their consequences under changing global climate.
Civic engagement: School‐based health centers and public health nursing
Authors: Blacksin Beth
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To understand how the events of the 1996 formation of a school‐based health center (SBHC) both illustrate the concept of civic engagement and embody historic aspects of public health nursing practice.

Design

Case study design.

Sample

Interviews, documents, epidemiologic records, and field observations.

Results

The three themes discovered were collaboration to achieve public good, equity and social justice, creation of a long‐term partnership, and demonstration of leadership using grassroots advocacy.

Conclusion

The SBHC case serves as a contemporary example of public health nurses' leadership in the current practice arena. The experience of nurse leadership evokes the historic mission and practice of public health nursing.
COVID‐19 updates: Real‐time epidemiology for BSN community/public health nursing course
Authors: Farris Cindy
Published: March 2021

Teaching nursing students about epidemiology is often a daunting task, with many lacking the knowledge and application of and interest in epidemiological elements. Baccalaureate science nursing (BSN) essentials state that BSN nursing students need educational applications for health promotion and disease prevention for effective population‐based communities. The COVID‐19 pandemic data have allowed for real‐time analysis and synthesis of live application of data which meets the specific requirements on current and future epidemiological problems. Nursing students can monitor weekly trends through disease surveillance and application to the surrounding community, providing for effective critical thinking and clinical judgment. Comparing weekly changes in data assists in developing interest on applying this information for practice. Discussion about background evidence, valid national, regional, and local websites, specific implementation steps, and overall student reflection feedback will be discussed.
Public health nurses in Canadian schools: An opportunity to build capacity and nursing scholarship
Authors: Buduhan Vanessa H. , Woodgate Roberta L.
Published: March 2021

Public health nurses (PHNs) in Canada have the potential to significantly benefit the health and academic outcomes of school age children with its impact lasting into adulthood. Unfortunately, cuts in government funding over the years have diminished the presence of PHNs in schools and their ability to practice to their full scope. In the midst of a pandemic, having a strong nursing presence in schools may facilitate public health efforts and reduce the burden on teachers and administration. This discussion paper will explore the current role of nurses in Canadian schools in relation to school nurses in other parts of the world. An overview of the literature looking at the impact of the school nurse on school health (i.e., student health and academic outcomes) will be presented to provide evidence in support of rebuilding nursing capacity in Canadian schools. Finally, the Framework for 21st Century School Nursing Practice will be introduced as a viable nursing theory to facilitate rebuilding PHN capacity in schools.
Spectral effects of blue and red light on growth, anatomy, and physiology of lettuce
Authors: Izzo Luigi Gennaro , Mickens Matthew A. , Aronne Giovanna , Gómez Celina
Published: March 2021

Characterizing spectral effects of blue and red light ratios on plants could help expand our understanding of factors that regulate growth and development, which is becoming increasingly important as narrowband light‐emitting diodes become common for sole‐source lighting. Herein we report growth, physiological, and anatomical responses of two lettuce cultivars grown indoors under various blue and red ratios including monochromatic treatments. When used in combination with red, increasing the proportion of blue light generally reduced growth but increased chloroplast abundance and single‐leaf photosynthetic efficiency. However, when used as single wavebands, both blue and red light increased leaf area and epidermal cell area, but reduced root dry mass, SPAD index, stomatal density, and leaf thickness compared to dichromatic light. In addition, chloroplast abundance and single‐leaf physiological responses were higher in plants grown under monochromatic blue compared to red light, but the opposite trend was measured for shoot biomass. Our results show that spectral effects on morpho‐anatomical leaf responses can largely influence plant growth and single‐leaf physiological responses. However, a significant blue light reduction in radiation capture ultimately limits growth and productivity of lettuce plants when dichromatic blue and red light is used.
On the population least‐squares criterion in the monotone single index model
Authors: Balabdaoui Fadoua , Durot Cécile , Fragneau Christopher
Published: March 2021

Monotone single index models have gained increasing popularity over the past decades due to their flexibility and versatile use in diverse areas. Semi‐parametric estimators such as the least squares and maximum likelihood estimators of the unknown index and monotone ridge function were considered to make inference in such models without having to choose some tuning parameter. Description of the asymptotic behavior of those estimators crucially depends on acquiring a good understanding of the optimization problems associated with the corresponding population criteria. In this paper, we give several insights into these criteria by proving existence of minimizers thereof over general classes of parameters. In order to describe these minimizers, we prove different results which give the direction of variation of the population criteria in general and in the special case where the common distribution of the covariates is Gaussian. A complementary simulation study was performed and whose results give support to our main theorems.
TB notification rates across parliamentary constituencies in India: a step towards data‐driven political engagement
Authors: Pardeshi Geeta , Wang Weiyu , Kim Julie , Blossom Jeffrey , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S. V.
Published: March 2021

Objective

National averages obscure geographic variation in program performance. We determined Parliamentary Constituency (PC)‐wise estimates of TB notification to guide political engagement.

Methods

We extracted district‐level TB notification data from the 2018 annual TB report. We derived PC‐level estimates by building a ‘cross‐walk’ between districts and PCs using boundary shapefiles. We described the spatial distribution of the PC‐wise estimates of Total Notification Rate and percentage of Private Sector Notification.

Results

The median PC‐wise Total Notification Rate was 126.24/100 000 (IQR: 94.86/100 000, 162.22/100 000). The median PC‐wise Percentage Private Sector Notification was 18.03% (IQR: 9.56%, 26.84%). Only 16 (2.94%) PCs met the target of 50% private sector notification. Most of high notification rates in PCs were driven by high notification in public sector. There was geographic – both interstate and within state inter‐PC – variation in the estimates of these indicators. The study identified some geographic patterns of notification – high positive outlier PCs with adjoining PCs in lower deciles of notification rates, intra‐state differences in PC performance, and similarities in notification rates of adjoining PCs in different states.

Conclusion

In addition to regional inequality, the study identified geospatial patterns that can aid in the formulation of suitable interventions. These include decongestion of overburdened facilities by strengthening poorly performing units. The PCs with a high percentage Private Sector Notification can act as role models for neighbouring PCs to improve private sector engagement. MPs can play a crucial role in mobilising additional resources, creating awareness, and establishing inter‐PC and inter‐state collaboration to improve TB program performance.
Production of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 hyperimmune globulin from convalescent plasma
Authors: Vandeberg Peter , Cruz Maria , Diez Jose Maria , Merritt W. Keither , Santos Benjamin , Trukawinski Susan , Wellhouse Andrea , Jose Marta , Willis Todd
Published: March 2021

Background

In late 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) virus emerged in China and quickly spread into a worldwide pandemic. Prior to the development of specific drug therapies or a vaccine, more immediately available treatments were sought including convalescent plasma. A potential improvement from convalescent plasma could be the preparation of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 hyperimmune globulin (hIVIG).

Study Design and Methods

Convalescent plasma was collected from an existing network of plasma donation centers. A caprylate/chromatography purification process was used to manufacture hIVIG. Initial batches of hIVIG were manufactured in a versatile, small‐scale facility designed and built to rapidly address emerging infectious diseases.

Results

Processing convalescent plasma into hIVIG resulted in a highly purified immunoglobulin G (IgG) product with more concentrated neutralizing antibody activity. hIVIG will allow for the administration of greater antibody activity per unit of volume with decreased potential for several adverse events associated with plasma administration. IgG concentration and IgG specific to SARS‐CoV‐2 were increased over 10‐fold from convalescent plasma to the final product. Normalized enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay activity (per mg/ml IgG) was maintained throughout the process. Protein content in these final product batches was 100% IgG, consisting of 98% monomer and dimer forms. Potentially hazardous proteins (IgM, IgA, and anti‐A, anti‐B, and anti‐D) were reduced to minimal levels.

Conclusions

Multiple batches of anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 hIVIG that met regulatory requirements were manufactured from human convalescent plasma. The first clinical study in which the hIVIG will be evaluated will be Inpatient Treatment with Anti‐Coronavirus Immunoglobulin (ITAC) [NCT04546581].
JARID1‐targeted histone H3 demethylase inhibitors exhibit anti‐proliferative activity and overcome cisplatin resistance in canine oral melanoma cell lines
Authors: Tobin Savannah J. , Chang Hong , Kent Michael S. , Davies Alexander E.
Published: March 2021

Histone demethylases are overexpressed or display altered activity in numerous human cancers leading to alterations in cell cycle dynamics, DNA repair kinetics, and therapeutic resistance. Consequently, therapeutic targeting of histone demethylases has become an active and promising area of research in human oncology. However, the role of histone demethylases and the potential efficacy of demethylase inhibition in canine cancers remains largely unknown. In the present work, we addressed this knowledge gap by exploring the therapeutic potential of histone demethylase inhibitors (HDIs) in canine oral melanoma. Using canine melanoma cell lines, we determined that broad spectrum HDIs result in decreased cell survival and prolonged DNA damage repair kinetics. We then showed that JARID1B, a histone H3 demethylase implicated in proliferation‐dormancy regulation and drug sensitivity in human cancers, is highly expressed in canine tumour tissues. HDIs targeting JARID1B, and related JARID1 family members, significantly reduced survival fractions in canine melanoma cell lines, but did not appear to modulate DNA damage repair kinetics like broad spectrum HDI treatments. Importantly, we found that the anti‐proliferative effects of JARID1‐targeted HDIs are preserved in cell lines resistant to platinum‐based chemotherapeutics, suggesting that HDIs may serve as a viable therapeutic strategy when faced with oral melanomas that progress despite the use of conventional therapies.
The role of age and gender in grammatical variation in world Englishes
Authors: Suárez‐Gómez Cristina , Seoane Elena
Published: March 2021

Young speakers and women have been identified as leaders of language change in the English language. However, sociolinguistic studies addressing grammatical variation according to the age and gender of speakers are infrequent in world Englishes mainly due to the dearth of corpora with explicit detailed metadata. In this paper we explore the effect of these two factors on language innovation and creativity as represented in the International Corpus of English (ICE). For that purpose, we have selected two high‐frequency grammatical phenomena: (i) the expression of perfect meaning, which exhibits variability between different forms; and (ii) relative clauses, with variation in the use of relativizers. A preliminary analysis of the variable age shows that young speakers behave differently as regards both the expression of perfect meaning and the choice of relativizers. With this study we hope to contribute to this still small but growing body of sociolinguistic research on grammatical variation in world Englishes.
Epidemiological and genetic characteristics of asymptomatic canine leishmaniasis and implications for human Leishmania infections in Egypt
Authors: Abuowarda Mai , AbuBakr Huda O. , Ismael Elshaimaa , Shaalan Mohamed , Mohamed Mona A. , Aljuaydi Samira H.
Published: March 2021

Leishmaniasis is a neglected zoonotic disease that poses significant veterinary and public health risks in developing countries. Dogs act as a reservoir host for leishmaniasis transmitted to humans. A total of 108 human cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) were identified in the Al‐Houd Al‐Marsoud Hospital in Cairo, Egypt, during 2018. Blood samples and skin biopsies were collected for further examination. Blood samples from 96 asymptomatic dogs were collected. All samples were subjected to molecular and phylogenetic analysis. Quantitative RT‐PCR was used to measure the expression of genes related to mTOR signalling and inflammation in blood and tissue samples. The distribution pattern of human cases pointed to an endemic focus in North Sinai (66.67%). The prevalence of asymptomatic canine leishmaniasis was 66.60%. Histopathological examination of human skin lesions revealed a severe granulomatous inflammatory reaction, necrosis and ulceration. Moreover, leishmanial amastigotes could be detected in human tissue samples. Phylogenetic analysis revealed 100% identity of human isolates to Leishmania tropica (MN453682), and dog isolates to Leishmania infantum (MN453673), with 94.9% similarity between the two isolates. Gene expression related to mTOR signalling and inflammation in both species' samples confirmed a significant alteration of EIF4EBP1, CCR4 and INF‐γ expression compared with control groups. In Egypt, increased incidence of asymptomatic carrier dogs acting as a significant reservoir host for Leishmania poses a public health hazard. Findings warrant further epidemiological investigation of CL in Egypt, as well as additional study of parasite differentiation and gene regulation.
Determining the effects of excess weight on renal cortical stiffness in children and adolescents with point Shear Wave Elastography
Authors: Karaman Zehra Filiz , Kardas Fatih
Published: March 2021

Aim: To determine the early effects of excess weight on renal cortical stiffness in children and adolescents using point shear wave elastography (pSWE). Materials and methods: One hundred and forty-six overweight and obese children (43.2% male; mean age, 12.6±2.9 years: range 4.3-18) and 48 lean children (27.1% male: mean age, 12.4±3.4: range 4.8-18.9) were included in the study and control group, respectively. pSWE measurements of the two kidneys were performed. The mean value of shear wave velocity was compared between groups. Results: The mean shear wave velocity was 2.79±0.53 m/s for the control subjects and 3.09±0.59 m/s for the overweight-obese subjects. The differences between the two groups were sta-tistically significant (p=0.001). There was no correlation between shear wave velocity and age or depth. A positive correlation was found between shear wave velocity and body mass index, body mass index-standard deviation score. Conclusion: Renal cortical stiffness was higher in children with excess weight than in lean children. This study is the first attempt at applying pSWE to investigate the early adverse effects of excess weight.
Transvaginal three-dimensional ultrasound for preoperative assessment of myometrial invasion in patients with endometrial cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Costas Tatiana , Belda Rocío , Alcazar Juan Luis
Published: March 2021

Aim: The aim of this meta-analysis is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of three-dimensional transvaginal ultrasound subjective assessment (3D-TVS) in the preoperative detection of deep myometrial invasion (MI) in patients with endometrial cancer, using definitive frozen section diagnosis after surgery as the reference standard. Material and methods: A search for studies evaluating the role of 3D-TVS for assessing myometrial invasion in endometrial cancer from January 1990 to Novem-ber 2020 was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE and Web of Science. The Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 evaluated the quality of the studies (QUADAS-2). All analyses were performed using MIDAS and METANDI commands. Results: Nine studies comprising 581 women were included. The mean prevalence of deep MI was 39.8%. QUADAS as-sessment showed that most studies had a high risk for the patient selection domain. Overall, the pooled estimated sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood and negative likelihood ratio of 3D-TVS for detecting deep MI were 84% (95% CI, 73-90%), 82% (95% CI, 75-88%), 5 (95% CI, 3.1-7.1) and 0.20 95% CI, 0.11-0.35). respectively. Conclusions: 3D-TVS has an accept-able diagnostic performance for detecting MI in women with endometrial cancer.
A β Ti–20Nb–10Ta–5Zr Alloy with the Surface Structured on the Micro- and Nanoscale
Authors: Sevostyanov M. A. , Baikin A. S. , Kaplan M. A. , Kolmakov A. G. , Gudkov S. V. , Rebezov M. B. , Garnov S. V.
Published: March 2021

This alloy is shown to be homogeneous (Ti 65%, Nb 20%, Ta 10%, Zr 5%). A change in the elemental composition is observed only in the layer close to the surface with a thickness of about 100 nm. The alloy surface is depleted in titanium (∼20%) and enriched in tantalum (∼20%). There is also a large amount of oxides on the surface (∼50%). The alloy is single-phase with a β-Ti-type crystal lattice (cubic system, space group Im3m). The alloy has yield strength of about 550 MPa and a tensile strength of about 700 MPa. The Young’s modulus is about 50 GPa. The relative elongation of the alloy is about 1.4%. On a microscale, folds and longitudinal comb-like structures up to 0.5 μm in height are found on the surface of wires and plates made of the Ti–20Nb–10Ta–5Zr alloy. When analyzing nanotopology, it is found that, even between comb-like structures or at their tops, there are irregularities up to 100–150 nm in height.
Improving the Anticorrosion Characteristics of Polymer Coatings in the Case of Their Modification with Compositions Based on Organosilanes
Authors: Petrunin M. A. , Gladkikh N. A. , Maleeva M. A. , Rybkina A. A. , Terekhova E. V. , Yurasova T. A. , Ignatenko V. E. , Maksaeva L. B. , Kotenev V. A. , Tsivadze A. Yu.
Published: March 2021

The effect of a series of organosilanes and their mixtures with corrosion inhibitors on the anticorrosion properties of polymer and paint coatings on steel, namely, on the adhesive characteristics of the coatings and corrosion behavior of the metal in the presence of coatings modified with organosilanes, corrosion inhibitors, and their mixtures, is studied. It is shown that mixtures of 1,2,3-benzotriazole (BTA) with vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS) or aminoethylaminopropyltrimethoxysilane—diaminosilane (DAS) inhibit the local dissolution and underfilm corrosion of carbon steel, and the potential of local depassivation shifts by 0.3–0.4 V. Here, compact polymer-like layers that are strongly bound to the metal surface are formed on the surface of steel. Corrosion and mechanical tests of the samples of pipe steels with different types of inhibiting compositions are conducted. The effect of the inhibitors on the crack growth under static loading in a model soil electrolyte (pH of 5.5) and on the crack resistance of steel under slow tension in an NS-4 model underfilm electrolyte (pH of 7.0) is evaluated. The tests are performed in media free from and containing hydrogen sulfide. It is shown that the best inhibiting properties are manifested by the mixtures of corrosion inhibitors with organosilanes. Comparative laboratory and bench tests for the adhesive strength, water resistance, and resistance to cathodic detachment of the adhesive junctions obtained upon applying the modified polymer and paint coatings onto the surface of steel are performed. It is found that introducing a mixture of organosilane and a corrosion inhibitor improves the adhesive properties of polymer and paint coatings.
Shaped Charge Hydraulic Blasting: An Environmental, Safe, and Economical Method of Directional Roof Cutting
Authors: Zhang Quan , Wang Jiong , Guo Shan , Gong Weili , Feng Longfei , Wang Haosen , Ming Can , Ma Zimin
Published: March 2021

Shaped charge blasting (SCB)—a directional fracture blasting technology—has the disadvantages of low safety, harmful gas, and dust emissions. This study proposes a new type of directional rock-breaking technology called shaped charge hydraulic blasting (SCHB) that uses water as the blasting medium instead of air. To verify the effectiveness of the new method, we performed a theoretical analysis. Twelve groups of on-site directional roof-cutting tests were carried out on SCB and SCHB for comparison in a coal mine. The results showed that, although both blasting methods achieved the goal of directional roof cutting for noncoal pillar mining, SCHB had greater blasting power and produced 8% higher crack rate than SCB for the same charge amount. SCHB required 12.5% less charge than SCB when the crack rate was basically the same. SCHB effectively reduced the concentration of CO. The maximum concentration of CO was reduced by 22–62% compared with SCB. The maximum concentration decreased parabolically with the monitoring distance. In addition, water can absorb high temperature and inhibit sparks from blasting, so SCHB can prevent gas explosions. Therefore, SCHB is an environmental, safe, and economical method of directional roof cutting, which has wide applications in mining and geotechnical engineering.
Innovative Approaches to Cheating: An Exploration of Examination Cheating Techniques among Tertiary Students
Authors: Odongo Douglas Attoh , Agyemang Eric , Forkuor John Boulard
Published: March 2021

The prevalence and surge in academic cheating indicate that students are finding innovative techniques to cheat during examinations. This problem has left invigilators and academic stakeholders wondering how students manage to cheat during exams. With a qualitative approach, this study sought to explore the techniques used by students during examinations. Data were gathered from students of Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. The findings revealed that the innovative techniques used by students were sitting arrangements, use of body parts, entry of foreign materials, and the use of technology. Students devised these techniques due to their perception of cheating and also poor institutional mechanism, which provided a favourable ground for cheating. We, therefore, argue that, to curtail academic cheating, not only should educational authorities and academic stakeholders improve institutional mechanism to prevent cheating, as it is the case, but also, a conscious effort should be made to alter student’s perception of cheating.
The impact of project based-CLIL on students’ english proficiency
Authors: Yufrizal Hery
Published: March 2021

The objective of this article is to explore the effectiveness of a method of teaching English as a foreign language in Indonesian higher institutions called project based Content Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) higher education institutions. The design proposed was based on the principle of language integrated learning (CLIL). Quantitative data were obtained from the scores of students' English proficiency before and after CLIL model application. While the qualitative data were obtained from the output of language produced by students during the learning process took place The results showed that CLIL English language course at higher education institutions in Lampung could work effectively. This is evident from the implementation of the whole program activities, from the implementation of the formation of groups, students work in groups to finish the project, group presentation activities, personal presentations and students’ responses to all activities.
Identification of students attitudes towards natural sciences at Adhyaksa 1 Junior High School, Jambi City
Authors: Tanti Tanti , Kurniawan Dwi Agus , Syefrinando Boby , Daryanto Mahbub , Fitriani Rini Siski
Published: March 2021

The study examined the attitudes of students at Adhyaksa 1 Junior High School in Jambi, Indonesia towards science subjects. This type of research is a mixed method. This study involved 136 students of Adhyaksa 1 Junior High School in Jambi City. The instruments used consisted of questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaire used was adapted from the study astalini and kurniawan with a Cronbach alpha value of 0.842 with a valid number of claims of 56. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics processed using the SPSS program. The results of the seven indicators are the social implications of science, normality of scientists, attitudes towards science inquiry, adoption of scientific attitudes, pleasure in learning science, interest in learning more science, career interest in science, this dominant in the moderate category, which means students are sufficient in learning science. With this research, it is expected to be able to measure students 'attitudes towards how students' attitudes towards the natural science course in Adhyaksa 1 Junior High School, Jambi City.
A path analysis of diagnosis of employee job performance: Implications of the education office
Authors: Kasyadi Soeparlan , Virgana Virgana
Published: March 2021

The performance of education office organizations was influenced by the behavior of its employees. This study aimed to determine the direct and indirect influence of organizational culture, leadership style, personality, and organizational justice towards the job performance of the employee education office in Jakarta. Research samples were 221 employees of the Jakarta Education Office. Data collection using questioner with the Likert scale, The results of the research there was a direct influence of leadership style towards organizational justice; Organizational culture on organizational justice; Personality towards organizational justice; Leadership style on job performance; Organizational culture towards job performance; Personality towards job performance, then organizational justice towards job performance, and personality through organizational justice towards job performance. It was concluded that the level of job performance was influenced by variations in leadership style, organizational culture, personality, and organizational justice.
Digital training for increasing English teachers’ professionalism at junior high school
Authors: Syafryadin Syafryadin , Wardhana Dian Eka Chandra , Febriani R.Bunga
Published: March 2021

This research aimed to know the problems and the implementation of the training as the solution and evaluation of digital training that can increase the English teachers’ professionalism at SMP Negeri 13 Bengkulu, Indonesia. This study used a descriptive qualitative method with the number of trainees were 10 English teachers. The procedures of collecting data were observation, documentation and interview. Then, the data analysis were done by comparing the result of the interview from the English teachers at SMP Negeri 13 Bengkulu, Indonesia before they joined and after joining digital training provided by the researchers and finally concluded. The first research finding is the English teachers had problems in terms of knowledge, difficult to apply the application or technology, and never joining training. The second finding is the implementation of digital training had many benefits namely increased the English teachers’ professionalism, experienced and innovated their knowledge and skills toward the use of digital learning, it brought a good quality for learning outcomes and it helped to be better in an advanced educational institution, particularly at SMP Negeri 13 Bengkulu, Indonesia. The last finding is that after implementation, the English teachers still got problems in using the application and need more training. The implication of this study is digital training can be an advanced way in educational development which needs good participation from the trainers, trainees and educational institution.
E-Learning to Improve Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) of Students
Authors: Yaniawati R. Poppy
Published: March 2021

The role of technology integration on modern learning is essential to optimize the acceleration process in Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). This research describes how to implement e-learning to improve HOTS of students and students’ attitude toward e-learning of mathematics, pre- learning students knowledge, duration of login in website, and correlation of variables with HOTS. The subject is 162 students in semester IV, from two different universities and are relatively different in their pre-learning knowledge. The instrument used in this research consisted of pre-learning knowledge HOTS test, students’ attitude scale and technology (computer and internet) skills self test. Based on analysis of the data, it is concluded that students’ HOTS who have studied through blended learning are much better than other learning (full e-learning and conventional approaches). Students’ HOTS with conventional model is better than full e-learning. However, students’ HOTS with full e-learning is worst than other learning (blended learning and conventional). The attitude of students towards e-learning in both learning approaches (blended learning and full e-learning) is positive. There is no significant difference in students’ attitude to these two learning ways. There is a significant correlation between pre-learning knowledge and students’ HOTS, but there is no significant correlation between students’ HOTS and students’ attitude toward e-learning of mathematics. There is a significant correlation between login duration and students attitude toward e-learning of mathematics. No significant correlation is found between login duration and students’ HOTS.