bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of lateral transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches for homolateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy
Authors: Liu Zhao , Li Da-wei , Yan Lei , Xu Zhong-Hua , Gu Gang-li
Published: December 2021

Background

There is a lack of data regarding the appropriateness of transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approaches for homolateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The aim of this study is to compare lateral transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approach for left-sided and right-sided laparoscopic adrenalectomy respectively.

Methods

Between January 2014 and December 2019, 242 patients underwent left-sided and 252 patients underwent right-sided laparoscopic adrenalectomy. For left side, transperitoneal approach was used in 132 (103 with tumors < 5 cm and 29 with tumors ≥ 5 cm) and retroperitoneal approach in 110 (102 with tumors < 5 cm and 8 with tumors ≥ 5 cm). For right side, transperitoneal approach was used in 139 (121 with tumors < 5 cm and 18 with tumors ≥ 5 cm) and retroperitoneal approach in 113 (102 with tumors < 5 cm and 11 with tumors ≥ 5 cm). Patient characteristics and perioperative outcomes were recorded. For each side, both approaches were compared for tumors < 5 cm and ≥ 5 cm respectively.

Results

For left-sided tumors < 5 cm, transperitoneal approach demonstrated shorter operative time, less blood loss and longer time to oral intake. For left-sided tumors ≥ 5 cm, the peri-operative data of both approaches was comparable. For right-sided tumors < 5 cm, transperitoneal approach demonstrated shorter operative time and less blood loss. For right-sided tumors ≥ 5 cm, the peri-operative data was comparable.

Conclusions

Lateral transperitoneal and retroperitoneal approach are both effective for laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Lateral transperitoneal approach is faster with less blood loss for tumors < 5 cm.
How radical is radical cure? Site-specific biases in clinical trials underestimate the effect of radical cure on Plasmodium vivax hypnozoites
Authors: Huber John H. , Koepfli Cristian , España Guido , Nekkab Narimane , White Michael T. , Alex Perkins T.
Published: December 2021

Background

Plasmodium vivax blood-stage relapses originating from re-activating hypnozoites are a major barrier for control and elimination of this disease. Radical cure is a form of therapy capable of addressing this problem. Recent clinical trials of radical cure have yielded efficacy estimates ranging from 65 to 94%, with substantial variation across trial sites.

Methods

An analysis of simulated trial data using a transmission model was performed to demonstrate that variation in efficacy estimates across trial sites can arise from differences in the conditions under which trials are conducted.

Results

The analysis revealed that differences in transmission intensity, heterogeneous exposure and relapse rate can yield efficacy estimates ranging as widely as 12–78%, despite simulating trial data under the uniform assumption that treatment had a 75% chance of clearing hypnozoites. A longer duration of prophylaxis leads to a greater measured efficacy, particularly at higher transmission intensities, making the comparison between the protection of different radical cure treatment regimens against relapse more challenging. Simulations show that vector control and parasite genotyping offer two potential means to yield more standardized efficacy estimates that better reflect prevention of relapse.

Conclusions

Site-specific biases are likely to contribute to variation in efficacy estimates both within and across clinical trials. Future clinical trials can reduce site-specific biases by conducting trials in low-transmission settings where re-infections from mosquito bite are less common, by preventing re-infections using vector control measures, or by identifying and excluding likely re-infections that occur during follow-up, by using parasite genotyping methods.
Ginsenoside Rg3 inhibits osteosarcoma progression by reducing circ_0003074 expression in a miR-516b-5p/KPNA4-dependent manner
Authors: Wang Tehasi , Zhang Chengguang , Wang Shuren
Published: December 2021

Background

Previous data have suggested that ginsenoside Rg3 (Rg3), isolated from the roots of Panax ginseng, plays a repressing role in multiple cancers, including osteosarcoma (OS). However, there is no any literature available about the role of circular RNA (circRNA) in Rg3-mediated OS development. The study aimed to explore the function of circ_0003074 in the anti-cancer effects of Rg3 on OS.

Methods

RNA expression of circ_0003074, miR-516b-5p and karyopherin subunit alpha 4 (KPNA4) was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Protein expression was evaluated by Western blotting or immunohistochemistry assay. Cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion were investigated by cell counting kit-8, 5-ethynyl-29-deoxyuridine (EdU), flow cytometry analysis, wound-healing and transwell invasion assays, respectively. Dual-luciferase reporter and/or RNA immunoprecipitation assay was performed to confirm the interplay between miR-516b-5p and circ_0003074 or KPNA4. Xenograft mouse model assay was conducted to reveal the effect of Rg3 treatment on tumor formation.

Results

Circ_0003074 and KPNA4 expression was significantly upregulated, while miR-516b-5p was downregulated in OS tissues and cells compared with controls. Rg3 treatment dramatically decreased circ_0003074 expression in OS cells. Rg3 treatment led to decreased cell proliferation, migration and invasion but increased cell apoptosis, which was attenuated after circ_0003074 overexpression. Besides, miR-516b-5p was a target miRNA of circ_0003074 and partially restored circ_0003074-mediated action under Rg3 treatment. Decreasing miR-516b-5p expression also promoted Rg3-treated OS cell malignancy through KPNA4, which was identified as a target mRNA of miR-516b-5p. Besides, circ_0003074 induced KPNA4 production owing to the decrease of miR-516b-5p expression. Furthermore, Rg3 treatment inhibited tumor formation by regulating circ_0003074 in vivo.

Conclusion

Rg3 inhibited OS progression through circ_0003074/miR-516b-5p/KPNA4 axis, showing the potential of Rg3 as a therapeutic agent for OS.
Maternity waiting home as a potential intervention for reducing the maternal mortality ratio in El Salvador: an observational case study
Authors: Yoon Hee sang , Kim Chong-Sup
Published: December 2021

Background

El Salvador is recognized as a country that has effectively reduced its Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR). While health indicators, such as total fertility rate, adolescent fertility rate, skilled birth attendance, and health expenditures, have improved in El Salvador, this improvement was unremarkable compared to advancements in other developing countries. How El Salvador could achieve an outstanding decrease in MMR despite unexceptional improvements in health and non-health indicators is a question that deserves deep research. We used quantitative methods and an observational case study to show that El Salvador could reduce its MMR more than expected by instituting health policies that not only aimed to reduce the (adolescent) fertility rate, but also provide safe birthing conditions and medical services to pregnant women through maternity waiting homes.

Methods

We ran pooled ordinary least squares regression and panel regression with fixed effects using MMR as the dependent variable and health and non-health factors as the independent variables. We conducted residual analysis, calculated the predicted value of MMR, and compared it with the observed value in El Salvador. To explain the change in MMR in El Salvador, we carried out an observational case study of maternity waiting homes in that country.

Results

El Salvador could reduce MMR by improving health factors such as fertility rate skilled birth attendance and non-health factors, such as gross domestic product (GDP) per capita and female empowerment. However, even while considering these factors, the MMR of El Salvador decreased by more than expected. We confirmed this by analyzing the residuals of the regression model. This improvement in MMR, which is larger than expected from the regression results, can be attributed partly to government measures such as maternity waiting homes.

Conclusions

The reason for the unexplained reduction in El Salvador’s MMR seems to be attributed in part to health policies that not only aim to reduce the fertility rate but also to provide safe birthing conditions and medical services to pregnant women through maternity waiting homes.
Adaptive Dosing of Nivolumab + Ipilimumab Immunotherapy Based Upon Early, Interim Radiographic Assessment in Advanced Melanoma (The ADAPT-IT Study)
Authors: Postow Michael A. , Goldman Debra A. , Shoushtari Alexander N. , Betof Warner Allison , Callahan Margaret K. , Momtaz Parisa , Smithy James W. , Naito Ellesa , Cugliari Marina K. , Raber Vladislav , Eton Omar , Nair Suresh G. , Panageas Katherine S. , Wolchok Jedd D. , Chapman Paul B.
Published: December 2021

PURPOSE

Nivolumab + ipilimumab (nivo + ipi) is highly efficacious but has high toxicity. Standard treatment in advanced melanoma is four doses of nivo + ipi followed by nivo alone. Whether four doses of nivo + ipi are needed is unclear.

METHODS

The Adaptively Dosed ImmunoTherapy Trial (ADAPT-IT) study ( NCT03122522 ) is a multicenter, single-arm phase II clinical trial. Patients received two doses of nivo (1 mg/kg) + ipi (3 mg/kg) followed by a computed tomography scan at week 6. Patients without new lesions or index lesion tumor growth of > 4% had protocol-defined early favorable antitumor effect (FATE) and ceased nivo + ipi, transitioning to nivo monotherapy. Patients without FATE at week 6 received the standard third and fourth doses of nivo + ipi followed by nivo monotherapy. The primary end point was response rate by RECIST 1.1 at week 12. Secondary end points included additional efficacy assessments and safety.

RESULTS

Sixty patients were enrolled; 41 patients (68%) had FATE at week 6 and met criteria for stopping nivo + ipi. Best overall response rates by RECIST at week 12 or any time afterward were 48% (95% CI, 35 to 62) and 58% (95% CI, 45 to 71), respectively. With a median follow-up of 25 months, the estimated 18-month progression-free survival and overall survival are 52% and 80%, respectively. Fifty seven percent of patients had grade 3-5 treatment-related toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The efficacy and toxicity of standard four dose nivo + ipi induction therapy in melanoma is likely driven by the first two doses. An interim computed tomography scan after two doses guided cessation of combination dosing and identified almost all responders. Longer follow-up and further study are needed to fully understand the implications of a shortened induction course of nivo + ipi.
Συσχέτιση λοιμογονικότητας στελεχών klebsiella pneumoniae που παράγουν KPC-2 με την έγκαιρη χορήγηση συνδυαστικής αντιμικροβιακής θεραπείας
Authors: Φεργαδάκη Σωτηρία
Published: December 2021

Εισαγωγή Αν και in vitro δεδομένα δείχνουν ότι η τιγκεκυκλίνη είναι δραστική έναντι στελεχών Klebsiella pneumoniae που παράγουν καρβαπενεμάσες (KPC) τα πειραματικά και κλινικά δεδομένα είναι περιορισμένα. Μελετήσαμε την επίδραση της τιγκεκυκλίνης ως μονοθεραπείας ή σε συνδυασμό σε πειραματικές λοιμώξεις με KPC. Μέθοδοι Συνολικά 540 αρσενικοί μύες τύπου C57BL/6 μολύνθηκαν με τρία γενετικά διαφορετικά στελέχη KPC, ευαίσθητα στην τιγκεκυκλίνη με ελάχιστες ανασταλτικές συγκεντρώσεις της μεροπενέμης 4, 16 και 256 mg/L αντιστοίχως. Οι μύες έλαβαν θεραπεία τυχαία με WFI (water for injection), τιγκεκυκλίνη και συνδυασμούς μεροπενέμης, κολιμυκίνης με/χωρίς μεροπενέμη και κολιμυκίνη. Η επιβίωση καταγράφηκε για 14 ημέρες. Σε ξεχωριστά πειράματα, μύες θυσιάστηκαν σε 6 και 24 ώρες μετά την βακτηριακή έγχυση για ποσοτικές καλλιέργειες ιστών και για ορολογικές αναλύσεις. Καμπύλες χρόνου-θανάτωσης πραγματοποιήθηκαν. Οι συγκεντρώσεις της τιγκεκυκλίνης, της κολιμυκίνης και της μεροπενέμης μετρήθηκαν στους ιστούς και στον ορό με σύστημα HPLC. Αποτελέσματα Η επιβίωση παρατάθηκε σημαντικά στους μύες που χορηγήθηκαν τιγκεκυκλίνη ως μονοθεραπεία και σχήματα που περιελάμβαναν τιγκεκυκλίνη σε σύγκριση με τους μάρτυρες και τους μυς που έλαβαν σχήματα που δεν περιελάμβαναν τιγκεκυκλίνη. Τα σχήματα χωρίς τιγκεκυκλίνη ήταν δραστικά μόνο κατά των στελεχών με MIC της μεροπενέμης 4 μg/ml. Η θνητότητα σχετίστηκε με εξέλιξη προς πολυοργανική ανεπάρκεια. Μονοθεραπεία με τιγκεκυκλίνη και τα σχήματα που περιλαμβάνουν τιγκεκυκλίνη πέτυχαν ταχεία μείωση του βακτηριακού φορτίου στους ιστούς και in vitro. Οι συγκεντρώσεις της τιγκεκυκλίνης στους ιστούς είχε αρνητική συσχέτιση με το βακτηριακό φορτίο στους ιστούς. Συμπέρασμα Η τιγκεκυκλίνη ως μονοθεραπεία ή σε συνδυασμό με μεροπενέμη ή κολιμυκίνη επιτυγχάνει αποτελεσματική θεραπεία των πειραματικών λοιμώξεων από KPC, ανεξάρτητα από το επίπεδο της MIC της μεροπενέμης.
Έννοιες στατιστικής και θεωρίας πιθανοτήτων στην εκπαίδευση με χρήση των Τεχνολογιών Πληροφορίας και Επικοινωνιών (ΤΠΕ)
Authors: Καλλιβωκάς Δημήτριος
Published: December 2021

Σκοπός της παρούσας διατριβής είναι να διαπιστωθεί, αν και σε ποια επίπεδα υπάρχει βελτίωση της κατανόησης εννοιών Στατιστικής και Θεωρίας Πιθανοτήτων, εφόσον εφαρμοστούν ΤΠΕ στη διδασκαλία της Στατιστικής, στο Πανεπιστήμιο. Πιο συγκεκριμένα η παρούσα διατριβή εξετάζει τη βελτίωση τoυ επιπέδου κατανόησης Εννοιών Στατιστικής και Θεωρίας Πιθανοτήτων στην Τριτοβάθμια Εκπαίδευση και ιδιαίτερα σε Τμήματα Σχολών Οικονομίας και Διοίκησης, με χρήση εξειδικευμένων εφαρμογών λογισμικού. Ως προσφορότερη μέθοδος έρευνας επιλέχθηκε η «πριν και μετά» με ομάδες ελέγχου. Η μέθοδος αυτή είναι η πλέον κατάλληλη, επειδή στόχος είναι να ‘μετρηθεί’ η βελτίωση της κατανόησης εννοιών στατιστικής και θεωρίας πιθανοτήτων από τους φοιτητές, τις περισσότερες εκ των οποίων έχουν διδαχθεί στη δευτεροβάθμια εκπαίδευση, δηλαδή, να αποτυπωθεί η διαφορά στην κατανόηση αυτών των εννοιών πριν και μετά την διδακτική παρέμβαση με χρήση εξειδικευμένου λογισμικού. Στην ερευνητική προσέγγιση της παρούσας έρευνας καθορίστηκε ως δείγμα, το μεγαλύτερο μέρος των φοιτητών Τμήματος ελληνικού ΑΕΙ, που παρακολούθησε σε ένα συγκεκριμένο ακαδημαϊκό εξάμηνο ένα υποχρεωτικό εισαγωγικό μάθημα Στατιστικής. Ορίστηκαν η πειραματική ομάδα και η ομάδα ελέγχου. Καταγράφηκαν προ-μετρήσεις (pre-tests) για τον προσδιορισμό του επιπέδου κατανόησης κάθε φοιτητή στην αρχή του εξαμήνου στο οποίο έγινε η διδασκαλία. Κατασκευάστηκαν ξεχωριστές και εξειδικευμένες εφαρμογές λογισμικού για τη διδασκαλία εννοιών Στατιστικής και Πιθανοτήτων και χρησιμοποιήθηκαν και υπάρχουσες εφαρμογές λογισμικού. Το σύνολο αυτών των εφαρμογών καλύπτει το μεγαλύτερο μέρος του περιγράμματος ενός εισαγωγικού μαθήματος Στατιστικής σε Τμήματα Σχολών Διοίκησης και Οικονομίας. Η πειραματική ομάδα διδάχθηκε τις βασικές έννοιες Στατιστικής και Θεωρίας Πιθανοτήτων με χρήση των εξειδικευμένων εφαρμογών λογισμικού, ενώ η ομάδα ελέγχου με την παραδοσιακή μέθοδο διδασκαλίας στο εργαστήριο. Καταγράφηκαν μετα-μετρήσεις (post-tests) στο τέλος του εξαμήνου και καθορίστηκε η βελτίωση, όπως αυτή προκύπτει από τη διαφορά της μετα-μέτρησης από την προ-μέτρηση για κάθε φοιτητή. Πραγματοποιήθηκε στατιστική ανάλυση και έγινε έλεγχος των ερευνητικών υποθέσεων για την εξαγωγή αποτελεσμάτων, αξιολογήθηκαν τα αποτελέσματα για την εξαγωγή πορισμάτων και τέλος εντοπίστηκαν εκείνα τα σημεία στα οποία μπορούν να βασιστούν μελλοντικές επεκτάσεις της έρευνας.
Αισθητική θεώρηση της αρχιτεκτονικής δημιουργίας
Authors: Κωσταροπούλου Μυρτώ
Published: December 2021

Πλήθος ερμηνειών προσεγγίζουν την αλήθεια και σκιαγραφούν ένα πρόσωπο που κοιτάζει την πραγματικότητα κατάματα. Η ικανότητα διαίσθησης των καθημερινών ποιοτήτων που γεννούν αυτό το πρόσωπο νοείται ως αρχιτεκτονική δημιουργία, πηγάζει δε κάθε φορά από μία βασική ερώτηση, την οποία πολλοί αποκαλούν κεντρική ιδέα, άλλοι επιχείρημα, άλλοι σύλληψη. Εδώ θα ονομαστεί συνθετικός άξονας, δρόμος και ανάπτυγμα ιδεών. Θα ονομαστεί όμως ακόμα δημιουργικό χάος, ώστε να αγκαλιάσουμε, τόσο το χαοτικό όσο και το λογικό στοιχείο. Μαζί και εξίσου θα συμπεριλάβουμε αυτά τα δύο στοιχεία σε μια αμφίδρομη διαδικασία -τον σχεδιασμό- που μέσα από πλήθος αναδράσεων μπορεί να μας ταξιδεύει από το χάος στον λόγο και αντίστροφα. Το αρχιτεκτονικό δημιούργημα, έτσι, θα αποτυπώνει κάθε στιγμή την εσωτερική σύσταση της σχεδιαστικής αυτής διαδικασίας, όλους τους διαλόγους, τις παλινδρομήσεις, τις εκκρεμότητες, τις μετεωρίσεις, τις ανησυχίες και τις προσδοκίες, δηλαδή τον συναισθηματικό φόρτο που γεννιέται σε ένα αρχικό μυθικό κενό, κενό που προκύπτει από τις πρώτες έλλογες ανησυχίες μας.
Broken tone in Leivu CV’V-words
Authors: Teras Pire
Published: December 2021

Leivu is one of the South Estonian dialects historically spoken in eastern Latvia and influenced by Latvian. One likely influence is broken tone or stød, which was developing in Leivu mainly as a result of the loss of /h/ in first quantity degree words. The aim of this study is to determine what characterises the pronunciation of CV’V-words (lost intervocalic /h/) and differentiates these from CVV-words. Sound durations, F0 and intensity contours of the syllable rhyme were analysed. Vowel duration in CV’V-words tends to be longer than in CVV-words. In CV’V-words, a short drop in intensity can occur between two identical or two different vowels, with the first vowel often being longer than the second one. In some cases, the second vowel in CV’V words was laryngealised. In CV’V-words, an early F0 turning point where F0 starts to fall occurs more consistently than in CVV-words where F0 can also be rising.

Kokkuvõte. Pire Teras: Katketoon leivu CV’V-sõnades. Leivu on üks lõunaeesti murretest, mida räägiti Ida-Lätis ja mida mõjutas läti keel. Üks neist mõjudest on tõenäoliselt katketoon, mis oli tekkimas peamiselt esmavältelistes sõnades /h/ kao tulemusel. Liivi keeleski on katketooni kujunemise üheks põhjuseks peetud just /h/ kadu. Selle töö eesmärk on välja selgitada, mis iseloomustab leivu /h/-kaoliste CV’V-sõnade hääldust ja mis eristab neid kolmandavältelistest CVV-sõnadest. Analüüsiti häälikukestusi, põhitooni- ja intensiivsuskontuure. Vokaalikestus on leivu CV’V-sõnades veidi pikem kui CVV-sõnades. CV’V-sõnades võib toimuda intensiivsuse langus ja tõus või järsk intensiivsuse langus nii kahe ühesuguse kui ka erineva vokaali vahel: esimene vokaal on enamasti kestuselt pikem kui teine. Ka CVV-sõnade hilistekkelistes diftongides on esimene osis sageli pikem kui teine. Mõnel juhul larüngaliseerub CV’V-sõnades silbituuma lõpuosa. Põhitoonikontuuris on CV’V-sõnades palju järjekindlamalt varane pöördepunkt ja langev põhitoon kui CVV-sõnades, kus tuleb ette ka hilise pöördepunktiga tõusvat põhitooni.
Latvian place names and dialects: A relevant source for the exploration of the Vidzeme South Estonian language
Authors: Vaba Lembit
Published: December 2021

Knowledge about the South Estonian language spoken in the parts of Livonia where Latvian prevailed is based on materials collected from the Leivus residing in Ilzene parish (Lv pagasts) of eastern Vidzeme. Very little language or none at all has been recorded from the South Estonian speakers who are known to have lived in the parishes bordering Ilzene. The article introduces and analyses the works of Latvian place name and dialect researchers focusing on Lejasciems and Kalnamuiža as well as Madona municipality (Lv novads) located in the southeastern corner of Vidzeme where South Estonians have historically lived.

Kokkuvõte. Lembit Vaba: Läti kohanimed ja murded: asjakohane allikas Vidzeme lõunaeesti keele uurimiseks. Teadmised lätikeelsel Liivimaal kõneldud lõunaeesti keelest rajanevad ainestikul, mida on kogutud Vidzeme idaosas Ilzene valla külades elanud leivudelt. Ilzenega piirnevatest valdadest, kus teadaolevalt elas samuti lõunaeestlaste rühmi, on keeleainest talletatud napilt või üldse mitte. Artiklis tutvustatakse ja analüüsitakse neid Läti kohanime- ja murdeuurijate töid, mis on seotud Lejasciemsi, Kalnamuiža ja Vidzeme kagunurga Madona piirkonnaga, kus ajalooliselt on elanud lõunaeestlasi.
Studying auroral activity using the SME index at the magnetic storm main phase during CIR and ICME events
Authors: Boroev Roman , Vasiliev Mikhail
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we examine the relationship of the SME index with magnetic storm characteristics and interplanetary medium parameters during the main phase of magnetic storms caused by CIR and ICME events. Over the period 1990–2017, 107 magnetic storms driven by (64) CIR and (43) ICME events have been selected. In contrast to AE and Kp, a stronger correlation is shown to exist between the average SME index (SMEaver) and interplanetary medium parameters during the magnetic storm main phase. Close correlation coefficients between SMEaver and the SW electric field (southward IMF Bz) have been obtained for CIR and ICME events. SMEaver has been found to increase with the rate of magnetic storm development and |Dstmin|. For CIR and ICME events, no difference has been revealed between SMEaver and |Dstmin| in linear regression equations.
Estimated influence of stratospheric activity on the ionosphere according to measurements with ISTP SB RAS tools
Authors: Tolstikov Maksim , Ratovsky Konstantin , Medvedeva Irina , Khabituev Denis
Published: December 2021

We present the results of a comprehensive study of the manifestation of wave activity with periods of internal gravity waves (IGW) in various regions of the atmosphere: in the stratosphere, upper mesosphere, and in the F2-region of the ionosphere. The study is based on radiophysical and spectrometric measurements made with tools of the Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics (ISTP) SB RAS and the Era-Interim reanalysis data. The correlation coefficient with time shift between ionospheric and stratospheric activity for the annual interval varies in the range from 0.45 to 0.54, and for the 27-day interval it reaches the levels 0.4–0.8 in seventy percent of the cases. Thirty percent of correlation coefficients less than 0.4 can be explained by the influence of neutral wind, geomagnetic activity, and non-stratospheric IGW sources. Comparison between stratospheric activity and variations in characteristics of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TID) has shown that a ~15 day shift in stratospheric activity results in a fairly high correlation between stratospheric activity and disturbance of IGW characteristics (~0.6). The delay of about 15 days can be attributed to the delay in the temperature variations at heights of the lower thermosphere relative to the temperature variations at the altitude pressure level of 1 hPa. Comparative analysis of variations in mesospheric and ionospheric activity has revealed time intervals when their behavior is consistent.
Variations of flow direction in solar wind streams of different types
Authors: Moskaleva Anastasiia , Riazantseva Maria , Yermolaev Yuri , Lodkina Irina
Published: December 2021

Studying the direction of the solar wind flow is a topical problem of space weather forecasting. As a rule, the quiet and uniform solar wind propagates radially, but significant changes in the solar wind flow direction can be observed, for example, in compression regions before the interplanetary coronal mass ejections (Sheath) and Corotating Interaction Regions (CIR) that precede high-speed streams from coronal holes. In this study, we perform a statistical analysis of the longitude (φ) and latitude (θ) flow direction angles and their variations on different time scales (30 s and 3600 s) in solar wind large-scale streams of different types, using WIND spacecraft data. We also examine the relationships of the value and standard deviations SD of the flow direction angles with various solar wind parameters, regardless of the solar wind type.

We have established that maximum values of longitude and latitude angle modulus, as well as their variations, are observed for Sheath, CIR, and Rare, with the probability of large deviations from the radial direction (>5°) increasing. The dependence on the solar wind type is shown to decrease with scale. We have also found that the probability of large values of SD(θ) and SD(φ) increases with increasing proton temperature (Tp) in the range 5–10 eV and with increasing proton velocity (Vp) in the range 400–500 km/s.
Studying auroral activity using the SME index at the magnetic storm main phase during CIR and ICME events
Authors: Boroev Roman , Vasiliev Mikhail
Published: December 2021

. In this paper, we examine the relationship of the SME index with magnetic storm characteristics and interplanetary medium parameters during the main phase of magnetic storms caused by CIR and ICME events. Over the period 1990–2017, 107 magnetic storms driven by (64) CIR and (43) ICME events have been selected. In contrast to AE and Kp, a stronger correlation is shown to exist between the average SME index (SMEaver) and interplanetary medium parameters during the magnetic storm main phase. Close correlation coefficients between SMEaver and the SW electric field (southward IMF Bz) have been obtained for CIR and ICME events. SMEaver has been found to increase with the rate of magnetic storm development and |Dstmin|. For CIR and ICME events, no difference has been revealed between SMEaver and |Dstmin| in linear regression equations.
Walking with Vigilance: Middleton's Edge in The Triumphs of Truth
Authors: Kaethler Mark
Published: December 2021

Scholars have frequently regarded Thomas Middleton's mayoral shows as exemplary for their moral dramatic structure. More recently, Tracey Hill has remarked upon their critical edge. Taking Middleton’s first show, The Triumphs of Truth (1613), as its primary focus and drawing upon selections from his other civic writings, this article examines the ways that Middleton's attention to the peripatetic nature of these events establishes a moral and critical reflection that is uniquely captured in the printed books he and other pageant writers saw through to publication. While arguing that this aspect of Middleton’s shows represents his unique contribution to the genre, the essay also explores the influences of Munday and Dekker, whose shows precede Middleton’s. Middleton does not entirely reinvent the genre but instead reminds the mayor and reader to walk with vigilance during both the live and imagined event.
An implementation of Hill cipher and 3x3x3 rubik's cube to enhance communication security
Authors: Nana Nana , Prasetyo Puguh Wahyu
Published: December 2021

Message security is must be managed seriously. Therefore, to maintain the confidentiality of any message, cryptography is needed. Cryptography is a science that uses mathematics to encrypt and decrypt messages. Cryptography is used as a tool to protect messages, for example, national secrets and strategies.Â  The method of this research is qualitative research with a literature review. This research implements a hybrid cryptographic algorithm by combining Hill cipher and 3x3x3 Rubik's cube methods with Python software simulation.
Comparing school mathematics curriculum between Switzerland and Indonesia
Authors: Istihapsari Vita , Junaedi Iwan , Mulyono Mulyono
Published: December 2021

Comparing a curriculum with the other more developed countries is essential for benchmarking the quality of education in the country. Switzerland deserves to be the object of comparison with the world's second-ranked Human Development Index. This article aims to compare the current curriculum in Indonesia, namely the 2013 curriculum, with the current curriculum in Switzerland, especially on school mathematics. The focus of the comparison lies in (1) school mathematics curriculum and (2) school mathematics content. This research is a qualitative research type of library research. We conducted a literature study, paid attention to the relevance of the literature, and analyzed it using data presentation, data reduction, and concluding. The results showed that with the education system in Switzerland, which emphasizes vocational education, the school mathematics curriculum places more emphasis on problem-solving. The contents are numbers, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics, changes and relationships, and problem-solving. Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the school mathematics curriculum is designed for every level of education with problem-based learning, project-based learning, and discovery learning models. School mathematics content includes numbers, algebra, geometry, relations and functions, statistics, and probability.
Characterization of Poldip2 knockout mice: Avoiding incorrect gene targeting
Authors: Lassègue Bernard , Kumar Sandeep , Mandavilli Rohan , Wang Keke , Tsai Michelle , Kang Dong-Won , Demos Catherine , Hernandes Marina S. , San Martín Alejandra , Taylor W. Robert , Jo Hanjoong , Griendling Kathy K.
Published: December 2021

POLDIP2 is a multifunctional protein whose roles are only partially understood. Our laboratory previously reported physiological studies performed using a mouse gene trap model, which suffered from three limitations: perinatal lethality in homozygotes, constitutivePoldip2inactivation and inadvertent downregulation of the adjacentTmem199gene. To overcome these limitations, we developed a new conditional floxedPoldip2model. The first part of the present study shows that our initial floxed mice were affected by an unexpected mutation, which was not readily detected by Southern blotting and traditional PCR. It consisted of a 305 kb duplication aroundPoldip2with retention of the wild type allele and could be traced back to the original targeted ES cell clone. We offer simple suggestions to rapidly detect similar accidents, which may affect genome editing using both traditional and CRISPR-based methods. In the second part of the present study, correctly targeted floxedPoldip2mice were generated and used to produce a new constitutive knockout line by crossing with a Cre deleter. In contrast to the gene trap model, many homozygous knockout mice were viable, in spite of having no POLDIP2 expression. To further characterize the effects ofPoldip2ablation in the vasculature, RNA-seq and RT-qPCR experiments were performed in constitutive knockout arteries. Results show that POLDIP2 inactivation affects multiple cellular processes and provide new opportunities for future in-depth study of its functions.
“You’re so powerless”: Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ people’s experiences before becoming homeless in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Fraser Brodie , Chisholm Elinor , Pierse Nevil
Published: December 2021

Little is known in Aotearoa New Zealand about experiences of homelessness amongst Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ identifying people, despite growing international literature regarding LGBTIQ+ homelessness. Using data from semi-structured interviews with eight people who identified as Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ and had experienced homelessness, this paper explores their experiences prior to becoming homeless. These experiences are placed into the categories of: the pervasiveness of instability (especially in regards to family relationships, finances, and housing), having to grow up fast due to social and material conditions, experiences of looking for housing in stressed markets, and systems failures that resulted in a lack of autonomy. These results show that instability and systems failures are key contributors to Takatāpui/LGBTIQ+ people becoming homeless in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Selection and validation of reference genes for normalization of qRT-PCR data to study the cannabinoid pathway genes in industrial hemp
Authors: Deguchi Michihito , Potlakayala Shobha , Spuhler Zachary , George Hannah , Sheri Vijay , Agili Ruba , Patel Aayushi , Rudrabhatla Sairam
Published: December 2021

There has been significant interest in researching the pharmaceutical applications of Industrial hemp since its legalization three years ago. The crop is mostly dioecious and known for its production of phytocannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Although many scientific reports have showed gene expression analysis of hemp through OMICs approaches, unreliable reference genes for normalization of qRT-PCR data make it difficult to validate the OMICs data. Four software packages: geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and RefFinder were used to evaluate the differential gene expression patterns of 13 candidate reference genes under osmotic, heavy metal, hormonal, and UV stresses. EF-1α ranked as the most stable reference gene across all stresses, TUB was the most stable under osmotic stress, and TATA was the most stable under both heavy metal stress and hormonal stimuli. The expression patterns of two cannabinoid pathway genes, AAE1 and CBDAS, were used to validate the reliability of the selected reference genes. This work provides useful information for gene expression characterization in hemp and future research in the synthesis, transport, and accumulation of secondary metabolites.
Social distancing practice and associated factors in response to COVID-19 pandemic at West Guji Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2021: A community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Fikrie Anteneh , Amaje Elias , Golicha Wako
Published: December 2021

Background

Curtailing physical contact between individuals reduces transmission and spread of the disease. Social distancing is an accepted and effective strategy to delay the disease spread and reduce the magnitude of outbreaks of pandemic COVID-19. However, no study quantified social distancing practice and associated factors in the current study area. Therefore, the study aimed to assess social distancing practice and associated factors in response to COVID-19 pandemic in West Guji Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2020.

Methods and materials

A Community based cross-sectional study design was conducted among randomly selected 410 household members of Bule Hora Town, West Guji Zone. Data were collected by pre-tested interviewer administered structured questionnaire adapted from previous peer reviewed articles. The data were coded and entered in to Epi data version 3.5 and analyzed by SPSS version 23. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions analysis was done to identify factors associated with social distancing practice. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and p value <0.05 were used to declare statistical significance.

Result

Out of 447 planned samples, 410 participants were successfully interviewed and included into final analysis; making the response rate of 91.7%. The median (±IQR) age of study participants was 28(±9) years. In this study, 38.3% [95% CI: 33.5%, 43.1%)] of the study participants have good social distancing practices for the prevention of COVID-19. Age group 26–30 years [AOR = 2.56(95% CI: 1.18–5.54)] and 31–35 years [AOR = 3.57(95%CI: 1.56–8.18)], employed [AOR = 6.10(95%CI: 3.46–10.74)],poor knowledge [AOR = 0.59 (95% CI:0.36–0.95)], negative attitude [AOR = 0.55 (95% CI:0.31–0.95)] and low perceived susceptibility [AOR = 0.33(95%CI: 0.20–0.54)] were significantly associated with good social distancing practice.

Conclusion

Social distancing practice is relatively poor in the study area. The knowledge and attitude level of participants were identified to be the major factors for the observed poor social distancing practice. Sustained efforts to improve awareness and attitudes towards COVID-19 prevention might improve adherence to social distancing practices.
Effect of enterally administered sleep-promoting medication on the intravenous sedative dose and its safety and cost profile in mechanically ventilated patients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tsunemitsu Takefumi , Kataoka Yuki , Matsumoto Masaru , Hashimoto Takashi , Suzuki Takao
Published: December 2021

Background

The clinical effect of enteral administration of sleep-promoting medication (SPM) in mechanically ventilated patients remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between enteral SPM administration and the intravenous sedative dose and examine the safety and cost of enteral SPM administration.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study was conducted in a Japanese tertiary hospital intensive care unit (ICU). The exposure was enteral SPM administration during mechanical ventilation. The outcome was the average daily propofol dose per body weight administered as a continuous sedative during mechanical ventilation. Patients were divided into three groups based on the timing of SPM administration at ICU admission: “administration within 48 hours (early administration [EA]),” “administration after 48 hours (late administration [LA]),” and “no administration (NA).” We used multiple linear regression models.

Results

Of 123 included patients, 37, 50, and 36 patients were assigned to the EA, LA, and NA groups, respectively. The average daily propofol dose per body weight was significantly lower in the EA group than in the LA and NA groups (β -5.13 [95% confidence interval (CI) -8.93 to -1.33] and β -4.51 [95% CI -8.59 to -0.43], respectively). Regarding safety, enteral SPM administration did not increase adverse events, including self-extubation. The total cost of neuroactive drugs tended to be lower in the EA group than in the LA and NA groups.

Conclusions

Early enteral SPM administration reduced the average daily propofol dose per body weight without increasing adverse events.
The association between educational level and multimorbidity among adults in Southeast Asia: A systematic review
Authors: Feng Xiyu , Kelly Matthew , Sarma Haribondhu
Published: December 2021

Background

In Southeast Asia, the prevalence of multimorbidity is gradually increasing. This paper aimed to investigate the association between educational level and multimorbidity among over 15-years old adults in Southeast Asia.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of published observational studies. Studies were selected according to eligibility criteria of addressing definition and prevalence of multimorbidity and associations between level of education and multimorbidity in Southeast Asia. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to measure the quality and risk of bias. The methodology has been published in PROSPERO with registered number ID: CRD42021259311.

Results

Eighteen studies were included in the data synthesis. The results are presented using narrative synthesis due to the heterogeneity of differences in exposures, outcomes, and methodology. The prevalence of multimorbidity ranged from 1.7% to 72.6% among over 18 years-old adults and from 1.5% to 51.5% among older people (≥ 60 years). There were three association patterns linking between multimorbidity and education in these studies: (1) higher education reducing odds of multimorbidity, (2) higher education increasing odds of multimorbidity and (3) education having no association with multimorbidity. The association between educational attainment and multimorbidity also varies widely across countries. In Singapore, three cross-sectional studies showed that education had no association with multimorbidity among adults. However, in Indonesia, four cross-sectional studies found higher educated persons to have higher odds of multimorbidity among over 40-years-old persons.

Conclusions

Published studies have shown inconsistent associations between education and multimorbidity because of different national contexts and the lack of relevant research in the region concerned. Enhancing objective data collection such as physical examinations would be necessary for studies of the connection between multimorbidity and education. It can be hypothesised that more empirical research would reveal that a sound educational system can help people prevent multimorbidity.
Potential global distribution of Aleurocanthus woglumi considering climate change and irrigation
Authors: Akrivou Antigoni , Georgopoulou Iro , Papachristos Dimitrios P. , Milonas Panagiotis G. , Kriticos Darren J.
Published: December 2021

Citrus blackfly, Aleurocanthus woglumi Ashby (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is an important agricultural quarantine pest, causing substantial economic losses to citrus and many other cultivated crops. Aleurocanthus woglumi is found in tropical and subtropical regions but is presently unknown in Europe and the Mediterranean Basin. We used CLIMEX to model the potential distribution of A. woglumi under an historical climate scenario (centred on 1995), including a spatially explicit irrigation scenario. We found that A. woglumi could potentially invade the Mediterranean Basin, and south-east Asia, including Australia. There is potential for it to invade most of sub-Saharan Africa. Irrigation is revealed as an important habitat factor affecting the potential distribution of A. woglumi, increasing its potential range by 53% in Asia. Under a future climate scenario for 2050, its potential distribution increased across all continents except Africa, where potential range expansion due to relaxation of cold stresses was limited, and was offset by range decrease due to lethal heat or dry stress. As global climates warm, Europe is likely to face a substantial increase in the area at risk of establishment by A. woglumi (almost doubling under the 2050 irrigation scenario). The biosecurity threat from A. woglumi is significant in current citrus production areas and poses a challenge to biosecurity managers and risk analysts.
Fire hazard forecast by the regional climate change projection using the ETA model: a case study in Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Rudge Ramos Ribeiro Rodrigo , Angel Trejo-Rangel Miguel , Nascimento Sulaiman Samia
Published: December 2021

This article proposes a method for predicting fire occurrence, considering regional climate change projection using the Eta model, with a 20 km resolution, for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Fire occurrence in the state of Bahia was calculated as a function of the three main sensitivity factors on a daily time-scale: days without precipitation, precipitation, and maximum temperature. Historical fire occurrences from 1998 to 2018 and meteorological data from 1960 to 2018 were obtained from official institutes, and weather forecast parameters from 2018 to 2050 were downscaled from the web platform PROJETA. The correlations between the meteorological factors and fire occurrence were calculated for the historical data and a weight factor corresponding to a control simulation. Afterwards, a correction factor was determined, based on the historical fire occurrence data used for the forecast in the two scenarios. The results indicate that between 2018 and 2050, risk of fire will have an average increase of 27% at the RCP4.5 and 38% at the RCP8.5 scenario.
Six new species of Alchemilla series Calycinae (Buser) Rothm. (Rosaceae) from the Caucasus
Authors: Chkalov Andrey V.
Published: December 2021

Descriptions and illustrations of the key morphological characters for six new species of Alchemilla ser. Calycinae (A. bezengiensis, A. kazbekensis, A. longipedicellata, A. muldaschevii, A. pseudotranscaucasica, A. ptyschensis) are presented. A. bezengiensis (A. aggr. ellenbergiana) differs from related species by hairy stems throughout and/or densely hairy hypanthia, and/or hairy lower leaf surface. A. kazbekensis (A. aggr. dura) is formally close to A. ser. Elatae by having patent indumentum of stems and petioles that differs it from all other Calycinae. A. longipedicellata (A.aggr. abchasica) is distinguished from most members of the aggregate by fewer leaf lobes and/or glabrous hypanthia, from other Calycinae – by numerous teeth of leaf blades and/or slightly dissected leaves. The three last species belong to A. aggr. transcaucasica being quite similar by appearance. A. muldaschevii differs from relatives by having entirely glabrous stems and orbicular upper radical leaves with overlapped basal lobes. A. pseudotranscaucasica, in comparison with others, has evenly hairy leaves beneath and stems hairy throughout, but glabrous hypanthia. A. ptyschensis is distinguished from other species of the aggregate by stems hairy only at the lowermost internode; from other Calycinae – besides the stem indumentum by longer truncate leaf lobes and glabrous at the base main veins of leaf blades.
Morphological and anatomical structure of cypselas of species of the genus Olgaea (Asteraceae: Cardueae)
Authors: Novozhilova Elena V. , Boyko Elvira V.
Published: December 2021

This paper is a continuation of a series of our investigation of the morphological and anatomical structure of the cypselas of the family Asteraceae. The article presents the results of an investigation of the morphological and anatomical structure of the cypselas of 6 species of the genus Olgaea Iljin of the tribe Cardueae Cass. (O. baldschuanica (C. Winkl.) Iljin, O. leucophylla (Turcz.) Iljin, O. lomonossowii (Trautv.) Iljin, O. nidulans (Rupr.) Iljin, O. pectinata Iljin, O. tangutica Iljin) by light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The carpological examination of the cypselas revealed specific features of the species of the genus Olgaea: the shape of the cypsela, the sculpture of the surface of the pericarp, the absence (or presence) crowns and carpopodium, the ratio of the thickness of the pericarp and exotesta, the number of rows and the nature of thickening of the walls of mesocarp cells, the presence or absence of endocarp, the shape and size of exotesta cells, the coefficient of their palisade (the ratio of the length of the radial walls to the length of the tangent). Cypsela of Olgaea species have significant differences, which indicates the heterogeneity of the genus and the need for its revision. Based on the data obtained and the previously published results of the study (Novozhilova, Boyko, 2019), a comparative analysis of the morphological and anatomical features of the cypsela of representatives of the genera Olgaea and Alfredia Cass. was carried out, which revealed the main differences in the structure of the cypsela of these two genera. It was found that the cypsela Olgaea and Alfredia have different structures, and therefore it is inappropriate to combine them into one genus.
Growth in Internet Usage During the COVID-19 Pandemic among Older Adults
Authors: Seifert Alexander
Published: December 2021

Digital solutions (e.g., videocast) to stay in contact have been more prevalently used during the pandemic; however, have older adults—who are often not familiar with modern technologies—used the internet more often during the pandemic? This brief note presents the first findings about the question of growth in internet use among older adults based on two representative surveys in Switzerland. The results showed that among the community-dwelling older adults, 45.7% had increased their internet usage, but only 19.5% among the residents of long-term care facilities had. Social workers should remain aware of the digital divide when working with older adults.
Producción del hábitat en el contexto de pandemia en el aglomerado Gran San Salvador de Jujuy
Authors: Albornoz Lourdes , Gómez López Claudia
Published: December 2021

Después de un año de la primera disposición nacional de aislamiento social, se reflexiona sobre el impacto de la misma en la evolución operada en el aglomerado del Gran San Salvador de Jujuy. El objetivo de esta investigación es identificar las formas de crecimiento durante el 2020, compararlas con los años anteriores y detectar si existen cambios que se relacionan con el contexto de pandemia. A través del análisis de imágenes satelitales se indaga en las transformaciones urbanas, se observan las áreas que se desarrollaron, las nuevas expansiones y consolidaciones producidas. En paralelo, se investiga en medios de comunicación las promociones ofertadas en el transcurso del año que, a su vez, se verifican en entrevistas a promotores inmobiliarios. Esto permite concluir que los cambios disruptivos impuestos por la crisis sanitaria, por una parte, plantea limitaciones y condiciona el accionar de la población, y por otra, crea las condiciones estratégicas para promover actuaciones urbanas “informales”, tanto desde su aptitud de suelo urbano como desde el punto de vista del marco jurídico administrativo en el que se originaron.
Mensaje
Authors: Pinheiro Santana Ethel
Published: December 2021

Mensaje