bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of colorectal cancer with genetic and epigenetic variation in PEAR1—A population-based cohort study
Authors: Yang Wen-Yi , Izzi Benedetta , Bress Adam P. , Thijs Lutgarde , Citterio Lorena , Wei Fang-Fei , Salvi Erika , Delli Carpini Simona , Manunta Paolo , Cusi Daniele , Hoylaerts Marc F. , Luttun Aernout , Verhamme Peter , Hardikar Sheetal , Nawrot Tim S. , Staessen Jan A. , Zhang Zhen-Yu
Published: April 2022

Platelet Endothelial Aggregation Receptor 1 (PEAR1) modulates angiogenesis and platelet contact-induced activation, which play a role in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. We therefore tested the association of incident colorectal cancer and genetic and epigenetic variability in PEAR1 among 2532 randomly recruited participants enrolled in the family-based Flemish Study on Environment, Genes and Health Outcomes (51.2% women; mean age 44.8 years). All underwent genotyping of rs12566888 located in intron 1 of the PEAR1 gene; in 926 participants, methylation at 16 CpG sites in the PEAR1 promoter was also assessed. Over 18.1 years (median), 49 colorectal cancers occurred, all in different pedigrees. While accounting for clustering of risk factors within families and adjusting for sex, age, body mass index, the total-to-HDL cholesterol ratio, serum creatinine, plasma glucose, smoking and drinking, use of antiplatelet and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, the hazard ratio of colorectal cancer contrasting minor-allele (T) carriers vs. major-allele (GG) homozygotes was 2.17 (95% confidence interval, 1.18–3.99; P = 0.013). Bootstrapped analyses, from which we randomly excluded from two to nine cancer cases, provided confirmatory results. In participants with methylation data, we applied partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and identified two methylation sites associated with higher colorectal cancer risk and two with lower risk. In-silico analysis suggested that methylation of the PEAR1 promoter at these four sites might affect binding of transcription factors p53, PAX5, and E2F-1, thereby modulating gene expression. In conclusion, our findings suggest that genetic and epigenetic variation in PEAR1 modulates the risk of colorectal cancer in white Flemish. To what extent, environmental factors as exemplified by our methylation data, interact with genetic predisposition and modulate penetrance of colorectal cancer risk is unknown.
Cost-effectiveness of Vitamin A supplementation among children in three sub-Saharan African countries: An individual-based simulation model using estimates from Global Burden of Disease 2019
Authors: Kannan Aditya , Tsoi Derrick , Xie Yongquan , Horst Cody , Collins James , Flaxman Abraham
Published: April 2022

Background

Vitamin A Supplementation (VAS) is a cost-effective intervention to decrease mortality associated with measles and diarrheal diseases among children aged 6–59 months in low-income countries. Recently, experts have suggested that other interventions like large-scale food fortification and increasing the coverage of measles vaccination might provide greater impact than VAS. In this study, we conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis of a VAS scale-up in three sub-Saharan African countries.

Methods

We developed an individual-based microsimulation using the Vivarium simulation framework to estimate the cost and effect of scaling up VAS from 2019 to 2023 in Nigeria, Kenya, and Burkina Faso, three countries with different levels of baseline coverage. We calibrated the model with disease and risk factor estimates from the Global Burden of Disease 2019 (GBD 2019). We obtained baseline coverage, intervention effects, and costs from a systematic review. After the model was validated against GBD inputs, we modeled an alternative scenario where we scaled-up VAS coverage from 2019 to a level that halved the exposure to lack of VAS in 2023. Based on the simulation outputs for DALYs averted and intervention cost, we determined estimates for the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) in USD/DALY.

Findings

Our estimates for ICER are as follows: $860/DALY [95% UI; 320, 3530] in Nigeria, $550/DALY [240, 2230] in Kenya, and $220/DALY [80, 2470] in Burkina Faso. Examining the data for DALYs averted for the three countries over the time span, we found that the scale-up led to 21 [5, 56] DALYs averted per 100,000 person-years in Nigeria, 21 [5, 47] DALYs averted per 100,000 person-years in Kenya, and 14 [0, 37] DALYs averted per 100,000 person-years in Burkina Faso.

Conclusions

VAS may no longer be as cost-effective in low-income regions as it has been previously. Updated estimates in GBD 2019 for the effect of Vitamin A Deficiency on causes of death are an additional driver of this lower estimate of cost-effectiveness.
Modeling and probabilistic analysis of civil aircraft operational risk for suborbital disintegration accidents
Authors: Chen Wantong , Tian Shuyu , Ren Shiyu
Published: April 2022

To reduce the collision risk to civil airliners caused by suborbital vehicle disintegration events, this paper uses a covariance propagation algorithm to model the debris landing point of suborbital disintegration accidents and gives a collision probability analysis method for civil airliners encountering debris during the cruise. Collision warning is performed for airborne risk targets to improve the emergency response capability of the ATC surveillance system to hazardous situations. The algorithm models the three-dimensional spatial motion target localization problem as a Gauss-Markov process, quantifying the location of debris landing points in the vicinity of nominal trajectories. By predicting the aircraft trajectory, the calculation of the inter-target collision probability is converted into an integration problem of a two-dimensional normally distributed probability density function in a circular domain. Compared with the traditional Monte Carlo method, the calculation speed of debris drop points is improved, which can meet the requirements of civil aviation for real-time response to unexpected situations.
Association of 71 cardiovascular disease-related plasma proteins with pulmonary function in the community
Authors: McNeill Jenna N. , Lee Dong Heon , Hwang Shih-Jen , Courchesne Paul , Yao Chen , Huan Tianxiao , Joehanes Roby , O’Connor George T. , Ho Jennifer E. , Levy Daniel
Published: April 2022

Rationale

It has been speculated that shared mechanisms underlie respiratory and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) including systemic inflammation or mutual risk factors. In this context, we sought to examine the associations of CVD-related plasma proteins with lung function as measured by spirometry in a large community-based cohort of adults.

Methods

The study included 5777 Framingham Heart Study participants who had spirometry and measurement of 71 CVD-related plasma proteins. The association of plasma proteins with lung function was assessed cross-sectionally and longitudinally using models accounting for familial correlations. Linear mixed models were used for the following measurements: FEV1%predicted, FVC%predicted, and FEV1/FVC ratio with secondary analyses examining obstructive and restrictive physiology at baseline and their new onset during follow up.

Measurements and main results

Among the 71 CVD-related plasma proteins, 13 proteins were associated in cross-sectional analyses with FEV1%predicted, 17 proteins were associated with FVC%predicted, and 1 protein was associated with FEV1/FVC. The proteins with the greatest inverse relations to FEV1%predicted and FVC%predicted included leptin, adrenomedullin, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1; in contrast there were three proteins with positive relations to FEV1%predicted and FVC%predicted including insulin growth factor binding protein 2, tetranectin, and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products. In longitudinal analyses, three proteins were associated with longitudinal change in FEV1 (ΔFEV1) and four with ΔFVC; no proteins were associated with ΔFEV1/FVC.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight CVD-related plasma proteins that are associated with lung function including markers of inflammation, adiposity, and fibrosis, representing proteins that may contribute both to respiratory and CVD risk.
The health impacts of a 4-month long community-wide COVID-19 lockdown: Findings from a prospective longitudinal study in the state of Victoria, Australia
Authors: Griffiths Daniel , Sheehan Luke , Petrie Dennis , van Vreden Caryn , Whiteford Peter , Collie Alex
Published: April 2022

Objectives

To determine health impacts during, and following, an extended community lockdown and COVID-19 outbreak in the Australian state of Victoria, compared with the rest of Australia.

Methods

A national cohort of 898 working-age Australians enrolled in a longitudinal cohort study, completing surveys before, during, and after a 112-day community lockdown in Victoria (8 July– 27 October 2020). Outcomes included psychological distress, mental and physical health, work, social interactions and finances. Regression models examined health changes during and following lockdown.

Results

The Victorian lockdown led to increased psychological distress. Health impacts coincided with greater social isolation and work loss. Following the extended lockdown, mental health, work and social interactions recovered to an extent whereby no significant long-lasting effects were identified in Victoria compared to the rest of Australia.

Conclusion

The Victorian community lockdown had adverse health consequences, which reversed upon release from lockdown. Governments should weigh all potential health impacts of lockdown. Services and programs to reduce the negative impacts of lockdown may include increases in mental health care, encouraging safe social interactions and supports to maintain employment relationships.
COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, hesitancy, and associated factors among medical students in Sudan
Authors: Raja Saud Mohammed , Osman Murwan Eissa , Musa Abdelmageed Osman , Hussien Asim Abdelmoneim , Yusuf Kabirat
Published: April 2022

Background

The COVID-19 vaccination in Sudan launched in March 2021 but the extent of its acceptance has not been formally studied. This study aimed to determine the acceptance and hesitancy of the COVID-19 vaccine and associated factors among medical students in Sudan.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered questionnaire designed on Google Form and sent to randomly-selected medical students via their Telegram accounts from 30th June to 11th July 2021. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. Chi-square or Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression were used to assess the association between vaccine acceptance and demographic as well as non-demographic factors.

Results

Out of the 281 students who received the questionnaire, 220 (78%) responded, of whom 217 consented and completed the form. Males accounted for 46. 1%. Vaccine acceptance was 55. 8% (n = 121), and vaccine hesitancy was 44. 2% (n = 96). The commonly cited reasons for accepting the vaccine were to protect themselves and others from getting COVID-19. Concerns about vaccine safety and effectiveness were the main reasons reported by those who were hesitant. Factors associated with vaccine acceptance were history of COVID-19 infection (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2. 2, 95% CI 1. 0–4.7, p = 0. 040), belief that vaccines are generally safe (aOR = 2.3, 95% CI 1. 2–4.5, p = 0.020), confidence that the vaccine can end the pandemic (aOR = 7.5, 95% CI 2. 5–22. 0, p<0.001), and receiving any vaccine in the past 5 years (aOR = 2.4, 95% CI 1.1–5.4, p = 0.031). No demographic association was found with the acceptance of the vaccine.

Conclusions

This study has revealed a high level of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among medical students. Efforts to provide accurate information on COVID-19 vaccine safety and effectiveness are highly recommended.
Heavy metal pollution and environmental risks in the water of Rongna River caused by natural AMD around Tiegelongnan copper deposit, Northern Tibet, China
Authors: Luo Yuhu , Rao Jiaoping , Jia Qinxian
Published: April 2022

Acid mine drainage (AMD) is one of the biggest environmental challenges associated with in the mining process. Most of the current research on AMD focuses on developed deposits, whereas there is almost no research on naturally-produced AMD from undeveloped deposits. In this study, river water and AMD were collected to analyze the distribution characteristics of heavy metals and the phytoplankton community. In addition, the environmental risks of heavy metals were evaluated by single-factor pollution index, Nemerow pollution index and health risk assessment model. The results show that the pH of the Rongna River water ranged from 6.52 to 8.46, and the average concentrations of Mn and Ni were 867.37 and 28.44 μg/L, respectively, which exceed the corresponding Grade III Environmental Quality Standard of Surface Water. The results of the environmental health risk assessment show that the river section of the Rongna River was seriously polluted by the heavy metal Mn after AMD confluence, and the health risk assessment indicates that oral ingestion of Mn posed a potential non-carcinogenic risk to children and adults. A total of 35 phytoplankton species were found in the Rongna River. The phytoplankton biomass was negatively correlated with the concentration of major heavy metals, indicating that the heavy metal concentration exceeded the tolerance limit of phytoplankton, thereby affecting their normal growth. Finally, statistical analysis shows that Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn and Cd in the Rongna River were mainly derived from AMD.
No evidence for cold-adapted life-history traits in cool-climate populations of invasive cane toads (Rhinella marina)
Authors: Wijethunga Uditha , Greenlees Matthew , Elphick Melanie , Shine Richard
Published: April 2022

As an invasive organism spreads into a novel environment, it may encounter strong selective pressures to adapt to abiotic and biotic challenges. We examined the effect of water temperature during larval life on rates of survival and growth of the early life-history stages of cane toads (Rhinella marina) from two geographic regions (tropical vs. temperate) in the species’ invaded range in eastern Australia. If local adaptation at the southern (cool-climate) invasion front has extended the cold-tolerance of early life-stages, we would expect to see higher viability of southern-population toads under cooler conditions. Our comparisons revealed no such divergence: the effects of water temperature on rates of larval survival and growth, time to metamorphosis, size at metamorphosis and locomotor performance of metamorphs were similar in both sets of populations. In two cases where tropical and temperate-zone populations diverged in responses to temperature, the tropical animals performed better at low to medium temperatures than did conspecifics from cooler regions. Adaptation to low temperatures in the south might be constrained by behavioural shifts (e.g., in reproductive seasonality, spawning-site selection) that allow toads to breed in warmer water even in cool climates, by gene flow from warmer-climate populations, or by phylogenetic conservatism in these traits.
MARIA MARGARETE SAMPAIO DE CARVALHO BRAGA
Authors: Machado Fiuza Fialho Lia , Alves da Costa Maria Aparecida , De Oliveira Leite Hugo
Published: April 2022

A pesquisa insere-se no campo da história da educação e traz à baila a biografia da professora universitária Margarete Sampaio. O objetivo foi compreender como se deu a trajetória formativa da professora freireana Maria Margarete Sampaio de Carvalho Braga e sua inserção no magistério superior na interface com o contexto educacional cearense (1970-2015). Trata-se de uma pesquisa do tipo biográfica que se ampara teoricamente na História Cultural e metodologicamente na História Oral, tendo como objeto de estudo as narrativas da professora, que foram coletadas mediante entrevistas - gravadas, transcritas e validadas. Os resultados revelam que Margarete Sampaio iniciou seu processo de escolarização em escolas isoladas no interior do Ceará e, posteriormente, ao mudar-se para Fortaleza, concluiu o ensino primário e secundário em grupos escolares, lançando luz ao importante contexto de organização da educação pública no Ceará. O segundo grau foi realizado no curso técnico em Administração. Cursou Pedagogia e Mestrado e Doutorado em Educação. Sua experiência em escolas estaduais de educação básica, assim como sua atuação em nível superior como professora temporária de universidades públicas e privadas, contribuiu para sua docência como efetiva na educação superior inspirada nos princípios de Paulo Freire.
Factors related to highway crash severity in Brazil through a multinomial logistic regression model
Authors: Franceschi Lucas , Kaesemodel Luciano , Do Carmo Comparsi de Vargas Vera , Konrath Andréa Cristina , Nakamura Luiz Ricardo , Gentil Ramires Thiago , Belleza Maciel Barreto Camila , Mattar Valente Amir
Published: April 2022

Reducing the number of deaths by road crashes is an important priority for many countries around the world. Although focusing on the occurrence of crashes can provide safety policies that help reduce its numbers, studying their severity can provide different measures that may help further reduce the number of deaths by focusing on the most severe problems first. In this paper, a multinomial logistic regression model is fitted to nationwide highway crash data in Brazil from 2017 to 2019 to identify and estimate the associated factors to crash severity. Severity is classified as without injury, with injured victims or with fatal victims. Amongst other observations, results indicate that pedestrian involvement in highway crashes increase dramatically their severity. Also, conditions that favor greater speeds (clear weather, times when there are fewer vehicles on the road) are also related to an increase in crash severity, pointing to a proportional relation with traffic fluidity. Moreover, some observed limitations on the data may indicate that Brazil would benefit greatly from national crash records standards and unified databases, especially crossmatching crash reports with health data.
Docentes 3.0: una aproximación a las narrativas transmedia para la educación y el desarrollo de la infancia
Authors: Sarmiento Valero Irene
Published: April 2022

Con motivo de la conferencia Docentes 3.0: una aproximación a las narrativas transmedia para la educación y el desarrollo de la infancia, a cargo de la investigadora Irene Sarmiento Valero, celebrada por la Cátedra UNESCO de Desarrollo del Niño de la Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas el pasado veintiocho de octubre de 2021, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo recoger los puntos clave de dicha conferencia, generando un punto de encuentro y de partida para futuras propuestas de innovación docente e investigación interdisciplinar en infancia y cultura.
El comunimétodo: apuntes de Ingeniería en Comunicación Social e infancia. Construyendo la vida social
Authors: Galindo Cáceres Luis Jesús
Published: April 2022

Este artículo presenta apuntes sobre ingeniería en comunicación social que puntualiza algunos elementos de sus fases diagnóstica y de acción. En la fase diagnóstica se enfatiza la cibercultura, una de las cinco dimensiones básicas de la ingeniería en comunicación social; mientras que, en el tránsito de la fase diagnóstica a la fase de acción, se presentan dos componentes básicos de la propuesta: la comuniconomía y la comunicometodología. La presentación sintética se centra en el corazón metodológico y tecnológico de la ingeniería en comunicación social: el comunimétodo, un ámbito de acción que tiene efectos constructivos determinantes en la vida social a partir de la relación entre la experiencia de los actores sociales y la observación sistematizada de dicha experiencia por parte del ingeniero social; el diálogo entre el actor social y el ingeniero es clave en todo este proceso.
THE EFFECT OF KAPPA CARRAGEENAN ADDITION ON THE EMULSION STABILITY OF MILKFISH (Chanos chanos) SAUSAGE
Authors: Meliana Edita , Agustini Tri Winarni , Kurniasih Retno Ayu
Published: April 2022

Fish sausage is a processed fish product in the form of an emulsion, so that the stability of the emulsion is one of the most important factors for the success of the product. The aim of this study is to find out the effect of kappa carrageenan as a hydrocolloid in increasing the emulsion stability and determining the best concentration of kappa carrageenan based on the value of emulsion stability and the characteristics of milkfish sausage. The research method used was experimental laboratories with a completely randomized one-factor design using ANOVA, which was then continued with the HSD test. Organoleptic value data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. The concentrations of kappa carrageenan used were 0%;0.5%;1%;1.5 with 3 repetitions. The results of the study show that kappa carrageenan addition has a significant effect (p<0.05) on the value of emulsion stability, sensory, moisture content, gel strength, and water holding capacity. The concentration of 1% kappa carrageenan (P2) was the best concentration with quality criteria: sensory of 8.14<µ<8.32, moisture content of 63.02%, water holding capacity of 55%, gel strength of 1200.14 g.cm, and emulsion stability of 83.23. Compared to other treatments, fish sausage with the addition of 1% kappa carrageenan has the brightest appearance according to the specific color of the product, has a chewy texture and solid but not hard, and has the highest value of emulsion stability.
Identification of Sprawl Development Typologies around Toll Road Gates in Java, Indonesia
Authors: Aditya Rendy Bayu , Husna Zumarotul
Published: April 2022

In the last 2 decades, hundreds of kilometers of toll roads have been built on Java, stretching from the east to the west of the island. Many researchers have examined the impact of the physical development of toll roads. From these previous studies, no one had ever identified the types of sprawl development resulting from toll gates. The purpose of this research is to identify the types of sprawl developments caused by the existence of toll gates. This research uses 2 methods: spatial development analysis using Google Earth Pro and literature reviews from publications on the topic of the impact of toll gates. We selected 12 toll gates based on the following criteria: toll gates must represent the western, central, and eastern regions of Java Island & toll gates must represent the time periods of toll development, which were more than 2 decades old, under 2 decades old, and less than 1 decade. The findings show there are variety of sprawl development as a result of the existence of toll gates or exits. The three types of sprawl developments include (1) linear/corridor and leapfrog; (2)concentric/radial and leapfrog and (3) a combination of linear and radial coupled with a leapfrog.
Masa Depan Penataan Ruang di Indonesia dalam Masa Transisi Menuju Masyarakat 5.0
Authors: Dewa Dimas Danar
Published: April 2022

Perkembangan teknologi menjadi tantangan dalam mewujudkan penataan ruang yang berkelanjutan di Indonesia di masa depan. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi potensi dan kecenderungan penataan ruang di Indonesia dalam masa transisi menuju masyarakat 5.0. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode telaah kebijakan berbasis kata kunci dalam dokumen kebijakan terkait (keyword-based policy analysis) dengan teknik analisis term frequency. Berdasarkan analisis yang dilakukan, diketahui bahwa kecenderungan perubahan kebijakan penataan ruang di Indonesia berupaya untuk mewujudkan penataan ruang yang efisien dan saling terintegrasi serta adaptif terhadap perkembangan teknologi. Selain itu, terdapat dua kelompok strategi yang dirumuskan dalam menghadapi perkembangan teknologi, yaitu mempersiapkan masyarakat yang inovatif, adaptif, dan berdaya saing di masa transisi menuju masyarakat 5.0 serta transformasi sistem penataaan ruang berbasis teknologi yang responsif, interaktif, dan berkelanjutan, dengan integrasi penataan ruang fisik terhadap penggunaan ruang maya.
Correction to: An overlooked new variety of Tritaxis glabella from India with a note on the consequent new synonyms of Croton lawianus (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Chakrabarty Tapas , Krishna Gopal
Published: April 2022

An overlooked new variety of Tritaxis glabella from India with a note on the consequent new synonyms of Croton lawianus (Euphorbiaceae).
A Review on Powder Bed Fusion Process and Smart Manufacturing Technologies
Authors: Alamri Nawaf Mohammad H.
Published: April 2022

Powder bed fusion (PBF) processes are laser-based additive manufacturing in which the laser beam scans the selected locations of powder bed at a controlled speed and then it fuses the powder to the solid material by either partial melting in selective laser sintering (SLS) or full melting in selective laser melting (SLM). The aim of this paper is to present a review about PBF showing its way of working, parameters and open issues. In addition, the paper shows the current smart manufacturing that optimize the processes.
Design and Development of syringe based Extruder for an FDM Printer
Authors: Reddy1 M. Karthik , Bogu V. Phanindra
Published: April 2022

Additive manufacturing technology as evolved with wide range applications in several fields. Syringe based extrusion is technique of the additive manufacturing technology in which is mainly used for bioprinting, paste extrusions e.t.c. A syringe is used for the extrusion of material or printable inks; the material to be printed is placed in the syringe. The syringe plunger helps the material to extrude out of the syringe with certain diameter. Syringe plunger is moved forward through a gear set up to the stepper motor. Designing and development of the syringe extruder components is done in affordable ways and tested with several printable parameters. The application of these techniques is mainly in medical field (bioprinting) for fabrication of bone tissues, cell tissues. A good quality print is obtained using the parameters (print speed, travel speed, flow rate) and also calculated value of extrusion multiplier. The print quality can further improve using the bionks with good viscosity and some design changes of the setup and also by accurate leveling of print bed and better calibration of the printer after installing the syringe setup on the normal printer setup.
FGF7 peptide (FGF7p) mimetic mitigates bladder urothelial injury from cyclophosphamide
Authors: Narla Sridhar Tatarao , Rice Lori , Ostrov David , Swarts Steven G. , Siemann Dietmar W. , Bushnell Daniel Scott , Holden Jacqueline G. , Duara Joanne Lindsey , Bates Carlton Matthew
Published: April 2022

Although full‐length fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7) blocks cyclophosphamide‐induced urothelial apoptosis in mice, limitations include high production costs because of its large size. We previously identified a small peptide derived from FGF2 that mitigated acute radiation syndrome as well as full‐length FGF2. Based on the sequence of the FGF2 peptide, we synthesized a corresponding 19 amino acid FGF7 peptide (FGF7p). Our objectives were to determine if systemic FGF7p triggered the downstream targets and protected against cyclophosphamide bladder injury similar to full‐length FGF7. We administered FGF7p or vehicle subcutaneously (SQ) to mice subjected to no injury or intraperitoneal (IP) cyclophosphamide and harvested bladders 1 day after injury. We then performed hematoxylin and eosin, TUNEL and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. In uninjured mice, a 20 mg/kg threshold FGF7p dose induced expression of phosphorylated (activated) FRS2α (pFRS2α), and pAKT in urothelium (consistent with cytoprotective effects of FGF7). We then gave FGF7p (20 mg/kg) or vehicle at 72 and 48 h prior to cyclophosphamide. One day after injury, TUNEL staining revealed many more apoptotic urothelial cells with vehicle treatment versus FGF7p treatment. IF for pAKT and readouts of two anti‐apoptotic AKT targets (BAD and mTORC1) revealed minimal staining with vehicle treatment, but strong urothelial expression for all markers with FGF7p treatment. In conclusion, FGF7p appears to block bladder urothelial apoptosis via AKT and its targets, similar to FGF7. FGF7p is much more inexpensive to make and has a longer shelf life and higher purity than FGF7.
On the transcendental entire and meromorphic solutions of certain non-linear generalized delay-differential equations
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit , Biswas Tania
Published: April 2022

The prime intention of this paper is to study the conditions under which certain non-linear generalized delay-differential equations possess a solution. In this respect, by extending and improving recent results of [5, 15], we characterize the nature of solutions. By providing relevant examples in a remark, we also show that for the uniqueness of solutions the conditions on the Borel exceptional value can not be removed. Finally, to determine explicitly all forms of the solutions of a traditional generalized delay-differential equation, we deal with the situation under the aegis of generalized c-delay-differential equations. We exhibit some examples to show that the conclusions of the theorems actually occur.
On λ-Changhee–Hermite polynomials
Authors: Pathan M. A. , Khan Waseem A.
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we introduce a new class of
λ-analogues of the Changhee–Hermite polynomials and
generalized Gould–Hopper–Appell type λ-Changhee polynomials,
and present some properties and identities of these polynomials.
A new class of polynomials generalizing different classes of Hermite
polynomials such as the real Gould–Hopper, as well as the 1D and 2D holomorphic,
ternary and polyanalytic complex Hermite polynomials and their relationship to the Appell type
λ-Changhee polynomials are also discussed.
Schreiben in informellen Kontexten
Authors: Busch Florian
Published: April 2022

Im Zuge der Digitalisierung des kommunikativen Alltags wandelt sich auch die gesellschaftliche Rolle von Schriftlichkeit. Der Beitrag zeichnet nach, wie sich Schreibpraktiken entlang der zwei Modi des textorientierten Schreibens und des interaktionsorientierten Schreibens (Storrer 2018) ausdifferenzieren und weshalb sich dieser Prozess insbesondere am literalen Alltag von Jugendlichen beobachten lässt. Um zu argumentieren, dass Jugendliche je nach Schreibkontext von unterschiedlichen Schreibregistern Gebrauch machen, die auf einer metakommunikativen Bewusstheit fußen, gibt der Beitrag schließlich Einblick in die Ergebnisse einer jüngst publizierten Studie zur digitalen Alltagsschriftlichkeit von Jugendlichen.
Maximum number of limit cycles for generalized Kukles differential system
Authors: Melki Houdeifa , Makhlouf Amar
Published: April 2022

We apply the averaging theory of first and second order to a class of generalized polynomial Kukles differential systems, which can bifurcate from the periodic orbits of the linear center

x
˙

=
y

{\dot{x}=y}

,

y
˙

=

-
x

{\dot{y}=-x}

, in order to study the maximum number of limit cycles of these systems.
On the Banks of Muddy Waters: Ayako Miura’s Soulful Adaptation of the Story of Job
Authors: Takagi Shinji
Published: April 2022

This article explores Ayako Miura’s Deiryū Chitai [“Mudflow Zone”] as a case study of the reception of the story of Job in Japanese literature. Despite the absence of righteous suffering as a theme, and its structural dissimilarity from the biblical book, this work should be read as a Joban adaptation where personal suffering is replaced by systemic suffering, and personal righteousness by social justice. Miura’s Job is the patient Job of the New Testament (Jas 5:11), but this Job, while accepting his lot in life without complaining, does not turn a blind eye to injustice around him. Miura’s message is that, in the face of one’s own suffering, whatever the cause, a Christian must not forget to love one’s neighbor. Not only does the story depict the struggle of a destitute man who, out of unconditional love, never gives up trying to rescue a victim of social injustice, but it also extols the lives of those who transform themselves to become serviceable and restore justice in the world. Set against the Exodus story of bondage and liberation, the work bespeaks the transformative power of a Christian life.
Perfunctory gamification in the world of second language learning
Authors: Opacki Marcin
Published: April 2022

Gamification is a trend that is steadfastly increasing in popularity in several fields that involve learning. Several concepts borne out of this have recently been applied with the intent to facilitate second language learning. This is most notably visible in the form of apps and online teaching courses that take advantage of mechanics that are drawn directly from video game design principles. In the context of language learning, the incorporation of game mechanics can be used to construct effective systems of incentive and ultimately enrich the FL learning experience in various ways, potentially resulting in improved outcomes. However, the prevailing trend in the gamification of language learning apps is to rely on a Black Hat gamification mechanics. These are propagated without much reflection in manner that can only be described as perfunctory gamification. Nevertheless, the subpopulation of so-called hardcore gamers is not only unsusceptible to these techniques, but exhibits a strong aversion to them. As a result, hardcore gamers are for the most part functionally excluded from the pool of potential CALL app users. The present work outlines several potential solutions to the problem of perfunctory game design practices that alienate hardcore gamers. Chief among these is the proposal to actively work towards a paradigm shift from gamification towards game-based learning.
Serum zinc associated with immunity and inflammatory markers in Covid-19
Authors: Joulaei Hassan , Keshani Parisa , Foroozanfar Zohre , Zamanian Daniel , Hassani Amirhossein , Parvizi Fateme , Khadem Yasaman , Omidifar Navid , Davarpanah Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to assess the association between serum zinc level with some inflammatory and immunity factors and the duration of hospitalization and mortality rate in patients diagnosed with Covid-19. In this cross-sectional study, blood samples were taken from polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive patients. New patients diagnosed with Covid-19, admitted to different public hospital wards, were considered eligible for entering the study. The study was done on 179 hospitalized patients diagnosed with Covid-19. Fourteen patients died during the hospitalization and the in-hospital mortality rate was 7.8%, with 9.1% (13 patients) of patients with serum zinc level less than 70 mcg/dL and 3.4% (1 patient) of patients with zinc levels more than 70 mcg/dL. Higher levels of zinc were significantly associated with a higher and lower level of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) (p-value = 0.035) and interleukin (IL)-6 (p-value = 0.004), respectively. The level of serum zinc did not have a significant association with mortality even after adjusting for confounding factors. The relationship between zinc level and the duration of hospitalization was also not significant. In conclusion, serum zinc level had an association with IL-6 and IFN-γ level, but it did not have any significant association with hospital duration or mortality.
The effect of some office papers quality characteristics on offset printing process
Authors: Mertoğlu Elmas Gülnur , Karabulut Beyza , Sönmez Sinan
Published: April 2022

This study was aimed to examine the effects of basic properties, fiber morphological properties, strength properties, wettability and optical properties on offset printing of office papers. Widely used office papers with different brands were obtained from Istanbul-Turkey. Technical characteristics of papers; basic properties, strength properties including tensile, burst, tear, and Z direction tensile strength and optical properties such as gloss, whiteness, opacity, and wettability tests were determined according to TAPPI and ISO standards. The results obtained by the tests are as follows; i) there is a great difference in water resistance between the top and the lowest values (207 %), ii) there is little difference between the highest and the lowest brightness value (3.8 %), other papers values have close to each other, iii) in the printing process there is a little difference between the highest, and the lowest gloss values (36.7 %), although the others are close iv) the highest and lowest values in CIE C* showed that it ranged from the narrowest color gamut to the widest color gamut. By applying the widely used offset printing process to commercially produced office papers, the quality levels were evaluated to raise awareness of consumers and sellers.
Die rechtlich-religiöse Ideenwelt in Lesja Ukraïnkas dramatischer Dichtung Rechtsanwalt Martian (1911)
Authors: Dagovych Tetyana
Published: April 2022

This article explains the juridical-religious conception behind Lesia Ukrainka’s dramatic poem Martian, the Lawyer (1911), which depicts the life of early Christians under Roman law in the third century. For the protagonist Martian, who is a lawyer and Christian, early Christianity and the Roman law fuse into one ideology, which implies the juridical elements codified in early Christianity, as well as a belief in law as the incarnation of the idea of truth and justice. Therefore, there are no conflicts between law and religion, but human feeling and compassion disappear within this ideology – with tragic consequences.
BORUN ANTİMİKROBİYEL ETKİLERİ VE GIDALARDA KORUYUCU OLARAK KULLANIM OLANAKLARININ DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: BAŞKAN Sibel , KILIÇ KANAK Eda , ÖZTÜRK YILMAZ Suzan
Published: April 2022

Canlılar için esansiyel bir element olan bor madeninin dünya üzerindeki en zengin rezerv potansiyeli Türkiye’de bulunmaktadır. Bor minerali, endüstri ve tarım başta olmak üzere birçok alanda kullanılmaktadır. Doğada çeşitli formlarda bulunan, topraktan bitkilere ve içme sularına transfer olan bor, insan vücuduna beslenme, soluma ve deri ile temas yollarıyla geçmektedir. Bor bileşiklerinin sağlık üzerindeki biyokimyasal ve metabolik etkileri oldukça fazladır. Bu çalışma borun insanlar, hayvanlar ve mikroorganizmalar üzerindeki olası etkilerinden yola çıkılarak gıda sanayisinde kullanımının araştırılmasını kapsamaktadır. Yapılan çalışmalara bakıldığında bor, gıda sanayisinde, gıdaların mikrobiyel bozulmalarının önlenmesi, besin öğesi açısından zenginleştirilmesi, tekstürel özelliklerinin geliştirilmesi, raf ömrünün arttırılması ve duyusal özelliklerinin korunmasında kullanılmıştır. Ancak bununla ilgili daha kapsamlı çalışmaların ülkemizde yapılmasına ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır.
Trade Openness, Inequality, and Democracy in East Asia
Authors: Kim Hayam
Published: April 2022

Has trade openness made East Asian countries more or less democratic? Although numerous studies have explored the economic effects of market integration in the region, few have systematically examined the political consequences of trade liberalization. This research extends previous work by empirically investigating not only direct but also indirect links between trade globalization and democracy in East Asia. I find that the direct negative effect of trade integration on democracy is mitigated by its indirect positive impact via inequality. Empirical evidence is provided by the three-stage least squares method and pooled time-series data from 1975 to 2015 for 13 East Asian states.
The Syrian Conflict’s Influence on the Chinese Role in the Middle East
Authors: Laarid Hocine
Published: April 2022

For China, the Middle East is a large geostrategic region that contributes to determining policies, and therefore the Chinese have always aimed to “step” into this arena and advance their agenda. Even though they are seeking a strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, Beijing’s pursuit of alternative energy sources, which has not been successful in Central Asia, has increased rather than diminished. We will try to understand how the Chinese strategic perspective in the Middle East is manifested in its position on the Syrian conflict, especially in light of Russian involvement. China’s relations with other Middle Eastern states will be discussed in relation to the Syrian conflict. The study concludes that China is seeking to export its image as a country with flexible diplomacy, a stable economy, massive industrial capacity, and huge capital in order to ensure an orderly rise against the West.
The Benefit of the Doubt or the Underdog Effect?
Authors: Nada Ayman Mansour
Published: April 2022

This study analyzes the determinants of American public opinion towards Islam and Muslims. It examines the impact of both period of time (1990–2020) and significant events (e.g., September 11, 2001) on the general impression (favorability) and knowledge of Islam among the American people. Twenty-two polls including questions about the favorability and the knowledge of Islam and carried out between 1990 and 2020 were analyzed. The results show that (1) positive attitudes towards Islam increase over time, meaning that time has a positive impact on Americans’ impressions about Islam; (2) knowledge about Islam among the American people increases over time—time has also been found to have a positive impact on Americans’ knowledge about Islam; and (3) there is a reciprocal correlation between knowledge and attitudes. Knowledge of Islam has a positive impact on attitudes, and attitudes have positive impact on knowledge about Islam. The findings of this study set the base for a strategic plan to improve the image of Islam in the United States and Americans’ knowledge about Muslims and their true beliefs.
Shared etiology of type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: a population-based twin study
Authors: Skov Jakob , Kuja-Halkola Ralf , Magnusson Patrik K E , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Kämpe Olle , Bensing Sophie
Published: April 2022

Objective

Type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis frequently cluster in individuals and in families, indicating shared origins. The objective of this study was to investigate familial co-aggregation of these diseases and to quantify shared genetic and environmental factors.

Design

This study is a twin cohort study.

Methods

National health registers were used to identify cases among 110 814 Swedish twins. Co-aggregation was calculated as risk ratios for type 1 diabetes among co-twins of individuals with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and vice-versa. Variance explained by genetics (i.e. heritability), and the proportions thereof shared between the diseases, was estimated by contrasting associations in monozygotic and dizygotic twins using structural equation models.

Results

Individuals with one disease were at a high risk for the other disease (adjusted risk ratio: 11.4 (95% CI: 8.5–15.3)). Co-aggregation was more common in monozygotic than in dizygotic pairs, with adjusted risk ratios of 7.0 (95% CI: 3.2–15.1) and 1.7 (95% CI: 0.7–4.1), respectively. Genetic effects shared across diseases accounted for 11% of the variance for type 1 diabetes and 9% of the variance for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, while environmental factors unique to individual twins, but shared across diseases, accounted for 10% of the variance for type 1 diabetes and 18% of the variance for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Conclusions

Both genes and environment unique to individual twins contribute to considerable etiologic overlap between type 1 diabetes and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. These findings add to the current knowledge on the mechanisms behind autoimmune disease clustering and could guide future research aimed at identifying pathophysiological mechanisms and intervention targets.
Endocrine and molecular factors of increased female reproductive performance in the Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1
Authors: Ludwig Carolin Lisa Michaela , Bohleber Simon , Rebl Alexander , Wirth Eva Katrin , Venuto Marzia Tindara , Langhammer Martina , Schweizer Ulrich , Weitzel Joachim M. , Michaelis Marten
Published: April 2022

The Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1 is a worldwide unique selection experiment for increased female reproductive performance. After more than 190 generations of selection these mice doubled the amount of offspring per litter compared to the unselected control line. FL1 females have a superior lifetime fecundity and the highest Silver fecundity index that has been described in mice, while their offspring show no signs of growth retardation. The reasons for the increased reproductive performance remained unclear. Thus, this study aims to characterize the Dummerstorf high-fertility mouse line FL1 on endocrine and molecular levels on the female side. We analyzed parameters of the HPG axis on both, hormonal and transcriptional levels. GnRH and FSH concentrations were decreased in FL1 throughout the whole estrous cycle. LH was increased in FL1 mice in estrus. Progesterone concentrations were decreased in estrus in FL1 mice and not affected in diestrus. We used a holistic gene expression approach in the ovary to obtain a global picture of how the high-fertility phenotype is achieved. We found several differentially expressed genes in the ovaries of FL1 mice that are associated with different female fertility traits. Our results indicate that ovulation rates in mice can be increased despite decreased FSH levels. Cycle-related alterations of progesterone and LH levels have the potential to improve follicular maturation and interactions of endocrine and molecular factors lead to enhanced follicular survival, more successful folliculogenesis and therefore higher ovulation rates in female FL1 mice.
John Rawls: The past and present of a moral and political theory
Authors: Czobor-Lupp Mihaela
Published: April 2022

When John Rawls’ A Theory of Justice was published in 1971, it brought a strong, inspiring, and refreshing creative impetus in Anglo-Saxon philosophy. Since then, Rawls’ work has been criticized on several grounds, mainly related to its Kantian formalism. However, ideas and theories are not born and do not exist in a social and political vacuum. Read in different historical contexts they can reveal new meanings and deliver specific messages, which are tailored to specific audiences and political cultures. I argue in my paper that, reflecting this reality and my own life experience, Rawls’ conception of justice and of a well-ordered society always remains actual. An important part of this actuality is revealed in the manner in which the theory inspired Romanian society in its post-communist search for models of citizenship. It is also revealed by the message it delivers to today’s divided and polarized societies, where solidarity has been corroded by neoliberalism and a sense of fairness and reasonableness has been weakened by an increasingly noxious agonistic spirit.