bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment Scales for Sexual Disorders—A Review
Authors: Grover Sandeep , Shouan Anish
Published: July 2020

Over the last 3 to 4 decades then has been an upsurge in designing rating instruments for assessing various aspects of sexuality, sexual dysfunction, and sexual disorders. In this article, we review the instruments used for assessing/rating various sexual disorders stemming from problems in the areas of sexual knowledge to erection/ejaculation to marital functioning, etc. Some of the available scales focus on all the phases of the sexual cycle, whereas other scales focus on the specific phases of the sexual cycle. Some of the commonly used scales, which assess multiple domains of sexual dysfunction include the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale or the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction. Some of the scales focus on other disorders such as Dhat syndrome. Though a lot of scales are available, there is a paucity of culturally sensitive, translated-validated scales. Although rating instruments provide us with valuable information about the sexual functioning of an individual, these should always be used as an add-on, ie, secondary to detailed taking and clinical examination for making any diagnosis or formulation of a management plan.
When altruists cannot help: the influence of altruism on the mental health of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Feng Yi , Zong Min , Yang Zhizun , Gu Wen , Dong Dan , Qiao Zhihong
Published: July 2020

Background

The positive predictive effect of altruism on physical and psychological well-being has been extensively demonstrated in previous studies, but few studies have examined the effect of altruism on negative mental health outcomes when altruists cannot perform altruistic behaviours. This study explored the influence of altruism on negative affect and mental health (anxiety and depressive symptoms) during the COVID-19 pandemic while people self-isolated at home in China.

Method

University students were recruited to participate in a cross-sectional online survey during the outbreak of COVID-19 in China. Self-reported perceived risk, altruism, negative affect, anxiety and depressive symptoms were measured using the Self-Report Altruism Scale (SRA scale), the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale (PHQ-9). A structural equation model was used to analyse the mediating and moderating effects on mental health.

Results

The final sample comprised 1346 Chinese participants (Mage = 19.76 ± 2.23 years, 73% female). Overall, the higher the risk the participants perceived, the more negative affect they exhibited (β = 0.16, p < .001), and thus, the more anxious and depressed they felt (β = 0.134, p < .001); however, this relationship between risk perception and negative affect was moderated by altruism. In contrast to previous studies, the increase in negative affect associated with the increased perceived risk was pronounced among individuals with high altruism (t = 7.68, p < .001).

Conclusions

Individuals with high altruism exhibited more negative affect than those with low altruism, which indirectly increased their anxiety and depressive symptoms. These findings enrich theories of altruism and provide valuable insight into the influence of altruism on mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Clinicopathologic implications of Myb and Beta-catenin expression in adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Park Susan , Vora Manali , van Zante Annemieke , Humtsoe Joseph , Kim Hyun-Su , Yom Sue , Agarwal Shweta , Ha Patrick
Published: July 2020

Background

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is the second most common malignancy of the salivary glands, accounting for ∼ 1% of malignant tumors of the head and neck region and 10% of salivary gland neoplasms. Predicting the long-term outcomes of patients with ACC is still challenging, as reliable prognostic biomarkers are not available. Among salivary gland tumors, Myb overexpression is highly specific for ACC. In addition, the MYB-NF1B fusion translocation is a hallmark of ACC, and although the detection of this translocation does not appear to impact prognosis, the MYB-NF1B fusion is also implicated in MYB upregulation. Myb has recently been identified as an activator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, and aberrant cytoplasmic expression of β-catenin has been observed in many salivary gland malignancies. In this study, we aim to analyze the impact of Myb and β-catenin expression on prognosis in ACC.

Methods

A tissue microarray constructed from archival tissue from 64 patients with ACC was stained for Myb and β-catenin; both localization and intensity were evaluated. In parallel, we abstracted demographic data, tumor characteristics, survival data, and outcomes, including local recurrence, regional recurrence, and distant metastasis from the medical record. Statistical analysis was performed.

Results

Our analysis supports that ACC patients negative for Myb by immunohistochemical methods have a higher risk of developing metastasis than patients with Myb staining (HR: 4.06, 95% CI: 1.02–14.96, p-value: 0.03). Although not statistically significant, cytoplasmic localization of β-catenin is may suggest a diminished rate of relapse-free survival (HR 2.45, 95%CI: 0.9–6.7, p = 0.08). Furthermore, Myb expression correlated with β-catenin expression, increasing 1.69 in staining intensity units with each increase in β-catenin staining intensity ( p-value: 0.04).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that Myb expression is protective; Myb positive patients have diminished risk of distant metastasis. In contrast, there is a trend towards increased hazard of death in ACC patients with cytoplasmic β-catenin expression. Additional analyses will be necessary to establish Myb and β-catenin as independent protective and adverse biomarkers, respectively.
Barriers and facilitators for colorectal cancer screening in a low-income urban community in Mexico City
Authors: Unger-Saldaña Karla , Saldaña-Tellez Minerva , Potter Michael B. , Van Loon Katherine , Allen-Leigh Betania , Lajous Martin
Published: July 2020

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are increasing in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), possibly due to a combination of changing lifestyles and improved healthcare infrastructure to facilitate diagnosis. Unfortunately, a large proportion of CRC cases in these countries remain undiagnosed or are diagnosed at advanced stages, resulting in poor outcomes. Decreasing mortality trends in HICs are likely due to evidence-based screening and treatment approaches that are not widely available in LMICs. Formative research to identify emerging opportunities to implement appropriate screening and treatment programs in LMICs is, therefore, of growing importance. We sought to identify potential barriers and facilitators for future implementation of fecal immunochemical test (FIT)-based CRC screening in a public healthcare system in a middle-income country with increasing CRC incidence and mortality.

Methods

We performed a qualitative study with semi-structured individual and focus group interviews with different CRC screening stakeholders, including 30 lay people at average risk for CRC, 13 health care personnel from a local public clinic, and 7 endoscopy personnel from a cancer referral hospital. All interviews were transcribed verbatim for analysis. Data were analyzed using the constant comparison method, under the theoretical perspectives of the social ecological model (SEM), the PRECEDE-PROCEED model, and the health belief model.

Results

We identified barriers and facilitators for implementation of a FIT-based CRC screening program at several levels of the SEM. The main barriers in each of the SEM levels were as follows: (1) at the social context level: poverty, health literacy and lay beliefs related to gender, cancer, allopathic medicine, and religion; (2) at the health services organization level: a lack of CRC knowledge among health care personnel and the community perception of poor quality of health care; and (3) at the individual level: a lack of CRC awareness and therefore lack of risk perception, together with fear of participating in screening activities and finding out about a serious disease. The main facilitators perceived by the participants were CRC screening information and the free provision of screening tests.

Conclusions

This study’s findings suggest that multi-level CRC screening programs in middle-income countries such as Mexico should incorporate complementary strategies to address barriers and facilitators, such as (1) provision of free screening tests, (2) education of primary healthcare personnel, and (3) promotion of non-fear-based CRC screening messages to the target population, tailored to address common lay beliefs.
Petrography and geochemical characteristics of Chang 7 sandstone in Yanhe profile, Ordos Basin: Implication for paleoenvironment and tectonic background
Authors: Gao Haijun , Li Delu , Dong Dingming , Jing Hongjun , Tang Hao
Published: July 2020

The Chang 7 oil layer from the upper Triassic Yanchang Formation is an important layer for hydrocarbon exploration. Most studies on the Chang 7 oil layer have focused on the source rocks, while research on the sandstone is still inadequate, especially on the petrography and geochemical characteristics. Using seven sandstone samples of the Chang 7 oil layer in the Yanhe profile, the grain-size analysis, major elements, trace elements, and rare earth elements were tested. The results find that the sandstone of fine-grained sediments of the Chang 7 oil layer is dominated by arkose with a minor number of lithic arkose. The range of grain size (Mz) is from 2.72 to 3.92 Φ, and the C value and M value of the sandstone samples suggest characteristics of turbidity deposition. The Al/Si ratios of all of the samples imply high clay mineral content. The results of trace and rare earth elements demonstrate the reducing condition, freshwater, and cold and dry weather. The provenance of the sandstone samples is mainly from island arc acidic volcanic rock, and the type of provenance is mixed with sedimentary rock, granite, and alkaline basalt. The tectonic background is continental island arc. This study provides a systematic geologic foundation for the formation of sandstone of Chang 7 oil layer in Ordos Basin.
Increase in Genetic Counseling and Testing Referrals After Breast Cancer Pathway Implementation
Authors: Graff Stephanie L. , Holder Jared M. , Sears Lindsay E. , Kurbegov Dax
Published: July 2020

PURPOSE:

Genetic counseling and testing (GC/T) for breast cancer–associated genetic mutations are important components in the appropriate management of newly diagnosed breast cancer. We initiated pathways to help appropriately select patients who meet criteria for GC/T referral (GC/T-R) across the Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute Network. This study evaluated physician pathway training as a means to improve access to GC/T-R.

METHODS:

In this retrospective, observational study, we collected data from 7 regions across 6 states, identifying 3,113 patients eligible for GC/T. Patients were divided into 3 defined cohorts: patients treated before implementation of pathways (n = 988), patients treated by non-pathway physicians after pathways were established (n = 1,094), and patients treated by pathway-trained physicians (n = 1,031). Pathways were established in March 2016. Nurse navigators documented eligible patients who were referred for GC/T within a care coordination software system.

RESULTS:

Eligible patients were referred for GC/T 71.77% of the time if treated on pathways and only 36.47% of the time if treated off pathways. On-pathway patients eligible for GC/T also received testing referral at a higher rate than pre-pathway patients (21.36%).

CONCLUSION:

After implementation of pathways and appropriate training of physicians on those pathways, GC/T-R among appropriate patients significantly improved. Pathway training represents a potential solution to improve GC/T-R among patients with breast cancer.
Intrathecal Catheter as a Source of Infection Years After Implantation of an Intrathecal Drug Delivery System: A Case Report
Authors: Foster Cody A. , Walega David R.
Published: July 2020

We describe a patient with an intrathecal drug delivery system (IDDS) for management of chronic back pain who developed worsening pain symptoms associated with an infected catheter tip, identified years after initial implantation. A 72-year-old woman had an IDDS initially implanted for management of chronic back pain. Years later, after suffering a vertebral compression fracture, workup revealed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings suggestive of infection despite unremarkable laboratory findings. Her pain worsened, and after explantation of the IDDS, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonized the catheter tip. Worsening pain symptoms in a patient with intrathecal morphine pump must be met with a broad differential diagnosis.
How Ian Fleming Reconsidered Innovated the Detective Story
Authors: Pelizzo Riccardo
Published: July 2020

The article makes an original contribution in that it claims that previous research had correctly underlined the innovative character of Ian Fleming’s novels, but failed to appreciate the true ways in which Fleming’s novel innovated the detective story as a genre. Previous scholarship had identified in the formalism, in the repetition of formulas and in what is known/unknown to the reader the main innovations introduce by Fleming in the detective story genre. In contrast to this interpretive line, this paper argues that Fleming innovated the detective story by re-introducing some elements of the myth (such as the special disjunction) that the detective stories had thus far discarded and by simplifying the structure of the novel—innovations that previous studies had failed to properly appreciate.
Cattle Review
Authors: Barrett David C
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

In this Cattle Review we consider interventions designed to enhance antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) herd breakdowns in Ireland and the coinfection of Fasciola hepatica and Echinococcus granulosus in cattle.
Power insensitive surface-normal electroabsorption modulators
Authors: Grillanda Stefano , Hu Ting-Chen , Neilson David , Earnshaw Mark
Published: July 2020

Surface-normal electroabsorption modulators (SNEAMs) have unique
electro-optic modulation properties; however, their behavior and
performance at high light intensity is affected by thermal
nonlinearities that take place in the modulator active volume. Here we
show a novel, to the best of our knowledge, approach to make SNEAMs
insensitive to optical power without the use of power-hungry heaters
or feedback control systems. By passively compensating for the
thermo-optic dependence of the SNEAM resonant cavity, we obtain an
eight-fold reduction in the wavelength shift of the SNEAM response at
4 dBm of input power. Furthermore, we show no appreciable degradation
in the SNEAM eye diagram at 25 Gbit/s, when the input power is
increased up to 2 dBm, which is about four times higher than in
conventional SNEAMs.
Spatial images from temporal data
Authors: Turpin Alex , Musarra Gabriella , Kapitany Valentin , Tonolini Francesco , Lyons Ashley , Starshynov Ilya , Villa Federica , Conca Enrico , Fioranelli Francesco , Murray-Smith Roderick , Faccio Daniele
Published: July 2020

Traditional paradigms for imaging rely on the use of a spatial structure, either in the detector (pixels arrays) or in the illumination (patterned light). Removal of the spatial structure in the detector or illumination, i.e., imaging with just a single-point sensor, would require solving a very strongly ill-posed inverse retrieval problem that to date has not been solved. Here, we demonstrate a data-driven approach in which full 3D information is obtained with just a single-point, single-photon avalanche diode that records the arrival time of photons reflected from a scene that is illuminated with short pulses of light. Imaging with single-point time-of-flight (temporal) data opens new routes in terms of speed, size, and functionality. As an example, we show how the training based on an optical time-of-flight camera enables a compact radio-frequency impulse radio detection and ranging transceiver to provide 3D images.
Doutoramento Honoris Causa Sua Alteza o Xeque Doutor Sultan bin Muhammad bin Saqr bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Saqr bin Rashid
Authors: Rashid Al Qasimi Muhammad bin Saqr bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Saqr bin , Neto Maria Margarida , Silva Maria de Fátima , Paiva José Pedro
Published: July 2020

Este volume reúne os textos dos discursos proferidos na cerimónia de doutoramento honoris causa em Letras atribuído pela Universidade de Coimbra a Sua Alteza o Xeque Doutor Sultan bin Muhammad bin Saqr bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Saqr bin Rashid Al Qasimi, em que foi apresentante a Doutora Margarida Neto.
Situierte Raumkonzepte zur Erklärung von Arbeitsprozessen im Kontext von Postwachstumsökonomien
Authors: Bürkner Hans-Joachim , Lange Bastian
Published: July 2020

Hans-Joachim Bürkner und Bastian Lange stellen Perspektiven auf Prozesse des Postwachstums vor, bei denen die Kategorie »Arbeit« und ihre besonderen sozialräumlichen Implikationen im Mittelpunkt stehen. Sie führen dazu den Begriff »situierte soziale Innovation« ein, der die Bindung von Innovationsprozessen an soziale Gemeinschaften und spezifische soziale Raumkonstrukte zum Ausdruck bringt. Zugleich zeigen sie auf, dass im Zuge neuerer Entwicklungen einer Alltagskultur des Postwachstums auch Arbeitsprozesse neu definiert werden, die wiederum mit veränderten situationsbezogenen Raumkonstrukten einhergehen. Sie stellen nicht nur originäre Neuschöpfungen von Arbeitsprozessen vor, sondern auch gemischte Übergangsformen zwischen klassischer Erwerbsarbeit und »atypischer«, vom Profitzwang befreiter Arbeit. Sie blicken demzufolge besonders auf hybride Arbeitspraktiken, wie sie im Übergangsbereich zwischen Hobby, Ehrenamt, selbst organisierter bzw. selbstständiger Arbeit sowie formalisierter Erwerbsarbeit und ihren Varianten (Teilzeit-, Vollzeitarbeit) zu beobachten sind.
Das Bauhaus als Transformationsgestalter
Authors: Brückner Heike
Published: July 2020

Heike Brückner ist Planerin und arbeitet an der Stiftung Bauhaus Dessau. Aus dieser Perspektive widmet sie sich in ihrem Beitrag den Ansätzen einer Postwachstumsökonomie, wie sie am Bauhaus in Dessau seit den 1990er Jahren in drei Langzeitprojekten und mit konkretem räumlichem Bezug entwickelt wurden. In den Umbrüchen nach der Wende entstanden in Ostdeutschland Räume und Initiativen, die alternative Ansätze einer nachhaltigen und eigenständigen Regionalentwicklung auf den Weg brachten: Postwachstumsinitiativen, die nur noch nicht so hießen. Vieles wurde erprobt, was heute als Postwachstumsansatz diskutiert wird. Sich in der Tradition des Bauhauses als Reform- und Gestaltungsinstitution verstehend, wurden mit gestalterischen und kulturellen Mitteln räumliche Strategien für alternative Entwicklungspfade jenseits des Wachstums herausgearbeitet. Dies zu reflektieren und daraus einen Ausblick zu wagen, welche Rahmenbedingungen, (Planungs-)Instrumente und Infrastrukturen die Herausbildung einer Postwachstumsökonomie unterstützen können, wird in diesem Beitrag und am Beispiel einer ostdeutschen Region (Dessau-Wittenberg-Bitterfeld) dargestellt.
„Polonistyka w kontakcie”, czyli o przekraczaniu dyskursywnych granic
Authors: Stankowska Agata
Published: July 2020

Recenzja
Trauma zobrazowana
Authors: Szewczyk-Haake Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Recenzja
Update on molecular diagnosis of human leptospirosis
Authors: Techawiwattanaboon Teerasit , Patarakul Kanitha
Published: July 2020

Background

Leptospirosis, caused by pathogenic Leptospira spp., is a widespread zoonotic disease worldwide. Early diagnosis is required for proper patient management and reducing leptospirosis morbidity and mortality.

Objective

To summarize current literature regarding commonly used and new promising molecular approaches to Leptospira detection and diagnostic tests of human leptospirosis.

Method

The relevant articles in Leptospira and leptospirosis were retrieved from MEDLINE (PubMed) and Scopus.

Results

Several molecular techniques have been developed for diagnosis of human leptospirosis. Polymerase chain reaction-based techniques targeting on either lipL32 or 16S rRNA (rrs) gene are most commonly used to detect leptospiral DNA in various clinical specimens. Whole blood and urine are recommended specimens for suspected cases in the first (acute) and the second (immune) phases, respectively. Isothermal amplification with less expensive instrument is an alternative DNA detection technique that may be suitable for resource-limited laboratories.

Conclusion

Detection of leptospiral DNA in clinical specimens using molecular techniques enhances sensitivity for diagnosis of leptospirosis. The efficient and robust molecular detection especially in the early leptospiremic phase may prompt early and appropriate treatment leading to reduced morbidity and mortality of patients with leptospirosis.
The Practical Syllogism and Practical Cognition in Aristotle
Authors: Harbin R. Kathleen
Published: July 2020

Prevailing interpretations of Aristotle’s use of syllogistic language outside the Organon hold that he offers a single, comprehensive theory of the practical syllogism spanning his ethical and biological works. These comprehensive theories of the practical syllogism are plausible neither philosophically nor as interpretations of Aristotle. I argue for a multivocal account of the practical syllogism that distinguishes (1) Aristotle’s use of syllogistic language to explain aspects of his account of animal motion in MA from (2) his use of syllogistic language to explain aspects of his account of the distinctive practical cognition of the phronimos in EN. I offer a novel account of the role of syllogistic language in ethics, arguing that it elucidates a nuanced account of universals and particulars in ethics according to which acting virtuously requires an understanding of underlying universal values and a capacity to relate them to concrete, particular features of our circumstances.
Possibilities of Obtaining Renewable Energy in Dairy Farming
Authors: Borek Kinga , Romaniuk Wacław
Published: July 2020

Modern livestock facilities necessary in the production of milk, meat or other animal products should be constructed with environmental protection in mind, while ensuring high quality of production and animal welfare. The high level of mechanization in modern dairy farms, including automated and robotic processes, allows obtaining high quality raw material (e.g. milk), and significantly increasing labor and production efficiency. In addition, the use of photovoltaic (PV) panels, heat recovery from milk and obtaining biogas from the manure fermentation process, contributes to large energy savings on the farm. Excess of natural fertilizers, which are an animal byproduct, can be used as a substrate for methane fermentation. The presented examples of obtaining renewable energy allow improving the economic efficiency of animal production. They also ensure appropriate environmental conditions through the innovative management of natural fertilizers.
Analysis of Failures and Reliability Model of Farm Tractors
Authors: Napiórkowski Jerzy , Gonera Jarosław
Published: July 2020

Farm tractors due to the nature of their work are exposed to a substantial risk of failures. The issues of their reliability are unusually significant in the aspect of the time limit of realisation of agricultural works in agrotechnical seasons. Nowadays, tractors provided for agriculture have increasingly complex functional units. The aim of the paper was to analyse reliability of presently produced farm tractors. Three tractor makes were evaluated and the analysis of failures was carried out with regard to functional units. Based on the obtained results, the average time of correct functioning and refreshment times and availability of particular tractor makes were determined. It was stated that the obtained empirical data of the correct functioning time and refreshment time may be well described with exponential functions. Significant differences in the values that determine the average time of correct functioning and duration time of refreshment obtained by tractors of the investigated makes were found. From among particular functional units, electric and hydraulic systems were the most often damaged, regardless the tractor make.
Cribado y diagnóstico prenatal de anomalías genéticas: recomendaciones de consenso SEGO, SEQCML, AEDP
Authors: Prieto-García Belén , Adiego Begoña , Suela Javier , Martín Inmaculada , Santacruz Belén , García-Planells Javier , Gil Mar , González Concepción , Eva Barrenechea
Published: July 2020

El objetivo de este trabajo es difundir las recomendaciones del consenso entre las sociedades científicas SEGO, SEQCML y AEDP sobre cribado y diagnóstico prenatal de anomalías genéticas, así como una propuesta de indicadores de evaluación, desde una perspectiva de mejora de cada uno de los procesos que constituyen el campo de aplicación de las estrategias actuales de cribado: bioquímico, ecográfico y genético. Asimismo, se recogen recomendaciones relacionadas con los procesos invasivos de diagnóstico prenatal, incluyendo tanto las técnicas de recogida de muestra como las aplicables a su posterior análisis genético. Perspectiva: Se propone unificar criterios e indicadores a nivel nacional, con evaluaciones periódicas. Asimismo, sería muy recomendable establecer una estrategia de cribado prenatal a nivel nacional, dotada con recursos que aseguren la auditoría periódica de dichos indicadores y de los procedimientos diagnósticos, con supervisión por las administraciones sanitarias. Los protocolos deberían ser revisados periódicamente para adaptarse a nuevas tecnologías coste-efectivas.
The role of communities in Uganda’s mother tongue-based education: Perspectives from a literacy learning enhancement project in Arua district
Authors: Ngaka Willy
Published: July 2020

This paper explores some of the factors that limit the effectiveness of Uganda’s mother tongue-based education policy, where instruction in lower primary classes is provided in the mother tongue. Using socio-cultural and ethnographic lenses, the paper draws from the experiences of a study implemented by a Ugandan NGO in one primary school in Arua district. Findings revealed weaknesses in implementation of the MTBE policy, highlighting deficiencies in the training of teachers, and lack of sensitization of local communities to the value of MTBE. The study also highlights the need for greater involvement of many kinds of stakeholder, and in particular, it focuses on how communities can be encouraged to work together with schools. A clearer understanding of what literacy involves, and how subjects can be taught in poorly-resourced communities, can be gained by considering the contribution of funds of local knowledge and modes of expression that build on local cultural resources. However, the strategies proposed are insufficient given the flawed model of primary education that the present MTBE policy embodies. A reenvisioning of how MTBE articulates with English-medium education is also needed. Substantial rethinking is needed to address target 4.6 of SDG 4 (UNDP, Transforming our world: The 2030 agenda for sustainable development.https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/post2015/transformingourworld(accessed 30 November 2015), 2015) which aims to ensure that “all youth and a substantial proportion of adults achieve literacy and numeracy by 2030”.
On the role of collisions with meteoroids in splitting and acceleration of heliocentric velocity of comets
Authors: Guliyev Ayyub , Guliyev Rustam
Published: July 2020

The hypothesis on the role of the meteoroid impacts in the comet nuclei splitting as well as acceleration of their heliocentric velocity are considered. Inclinations of the orbits of split comets relative to the movement planes of 100 known meteoroid streams are calculated. The analysis is carried out for the cases: when the cometary nodes are located from the meteoroids orbit < 0.1 AU; MOID-values less than 0.1 AU. In the case of split long-period comets irregularity (maximum near 180°) of the distribution of the inclinations has been found. Comets, constituting this maximum, could have head-on collisions with meteoroids. A similar analysis is carried out relatively to the hyperbolic comets (HCs). Analysis is based on the assumption that the acceleration of the heliocentric velocities of the comet also is caused by collisions with meteoroids. The inclinations of the orbits of 300 HCs relative to 100 known meteoroid streams have the significant maxima in the interval of 90°− 101.5°. Acceleration of comet velocity might be the result of “slanting” collisions with meteoroids.
LncRNA SNHG15 regulates osteosarcoma progression in vitro and in vivo via sponging miR-346 and regulating TRAF4 expression
Authors: Chen Xuewu , Xu Hongguang
Published: July 2020

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a common primary malignant bone tumor around the world. It has been reported that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) take part in diverse pathological processes of OS; however, the mechanism remains unknown. This study aimed to uncover the profile of lncRNAsmall nucleolar RNA host gene 15(SNHG15), its biological function, and its potential involvement in the mechanism of OS progressionin vitroandin vivo. The expression of SNHG15 and TRAF4 was promoted in OS tissues opposite for that of miR-346. The silencing of SNHG15 limited the proliferation, invasion, and enhanced apoptosis of SaoS2 and HOS cells. Moreover, the putative binding sites between miR-346 and SNHG15 or TRAF4 were predicted by starBase and Targetscan software online, individually. Also, miR-346 deletion reversed the positive effects of SNHG15 elimination on proliferation, apoptosis, and invasion in cells. In addition, the upregulation of TRAF4 disrupted the biofunctional results from miR-346 promotion subsequently. Finally, SNHG15 knockdown repressed OS tumor growth in a xenograft tumor model. SNHG15 enhanced the progression of OS by regulating the miR-346/TRAF4 axisin vitroandin vivo.
Coexisting flavonoids and administration route effect on pharmacokinetics of Puerarin in MCAO rats
Authors: Li Pengyue , Zhong Linying , Yang Linjie , Bai Jie , Lu Yang , Du Shouying
Published: July 2020

A pharmacokinetic comparison was made to evaluate the influence from other components in the Radix Puerariae Extract on pharmacokinetic behavior of Puerarin. Samples of blood and brain were collected by microdialysis and determined by high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (MS)/MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated from the concentration versus time data using non-compartmental methods. In addition, a comparative pharmacokinetic study of Puerarin in stroke rats was studied after administration of the Radix Puerariae Extract via different routes to find an effective way to deliver drug into brain. Obvious pharmacokinetic differences were also observed in comparison between the Puerarin group and the Radix Puerariae Extract group based on middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats. The Cmax and area under the curve (AUC) of Puerarin in olfactory bulb of the Extract group significantly reduced when it was intravenously administered. However, the AUCs of Puerarin in plasma are 134.72 and 1707.02 mg/L min, via intranasal and intravenous administration of the Radix Puerariae Extract, respectively. The AUC of the intranasal group in brain is seven times higher than that of intravenous administration. Other ingredients in the Extract may affect the disposition of Puerarin and its transportation through the blood–brain barrier via intravenous administration. But intranasal administration is an effective route to deliver isoflavone-C-glycoside with poor hydrophilicity into brain.
Insights into Endothelin-3 and Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Monti Lucia , Arrigucci Umberto , Rossi Alessandro
Published: July 2020

Endothelins are powerful vasoconstrictor peptides that play numerous other roles. Endothelin-1 (ET1) is the principal isoform produced by the endothelium in the human cardiovascular system. Endothelin-3 (ET3) and its rPptor affinity have been demonstrated to support neuronal repair mechanisms throughout life. In multiple sclerosis (MS), the role of vasoactive peptides are not well defined. Here we focus on ET3, specifically the plasma levels between MS patients and healthy subjects. Furthermore, we evaluated the changes in ET1 and ET3 plasma levels during different disease phases, the correlation between ET3 and cerebral circulation time, and the relationship between ET1 and ET3. In MS patients, the ET3 plasma levels were altered in a time-dependent manner. These results could support a putative role of ET3 in neuroprotection and/or neuroimmune modulation over time.
Genotype/phenotype relationship in Gaucher disease patients. Novel mutation in glucocerebrosidase gene
Authors: Lepe-Balsalobre Esperanza , Santotoribio José D. , Nuñez-Vazquez Ramiro , García-Morillo Salvador , Jiménez-Arriscado Pilar , Hernández-Arévalo Paula , Delarosa-Rodríguez Rocío , Guerrero Juan M. , Macher Hada C.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Gaucher disease (GD) is the most common inherited lysosomal storage disease, caused by mutations in acid β-glucosidase (GBA) gene. This study aimed to identify mutations in Andalusia patients with GD and their genotype-phenotype correlation.

Methods

Descriptive observational study. University Hospital Virgen del Rocio patients diagnosed from GD from 1999 to 2019 were included. Demographic and clinical data, β-glucocerebrosidase activity, variants pathogenic in GBA gene and biomarkers for monitoring treatment were collected from digital medical record.

Results

Twenty-six patients with aged between 1 day and 52 years were studied. A total of six mutations described as pathogenic and one mutation not described above [c.937T>C (p.Tyr313His)] were identified in the GBA gene, four patients were homozygotes and 22 compound heterozygotes. Twenty-four patients were diagnosed in non-neuropathic form (type 1) and two cases presented neurological involvement (type 2 or 3). The most common variant was c.1226A>G (p.Asn409Ser), which was detected in 24 patients, followed by c.1448T>C (p.Leu483Pro) variant, identified in 13 patients. The c.1448T>C (p.Leu483Pro) mutation has been presented in the most severe phenotypes with neurological involvement associated with type 2 and 3 GD, while c.1226A>G (p.Asn409Ser) mutation has not been associated with neurological alterations. Splenomegaly and bone disease were the most frequent clinical manifestations, and thrombocytopenia was the most common hematological disorder.

Conclusions

The c.1226A>G (p.Asn409Ser) and c.1448T>C (p.Leu483Pro) mutations were the most common. The c.937T>C (p.Tyr313His) was identified as a novel mutation. The c.1448T>C (p.Leu483Pro) mutation was associated with neurological alterations and c.1226A>G (p.Asn409Ser) mutation has not been associated it.
Characterization of soil water by the means of hydrogen and oxygen isotope ratio at dry-wet season under different soil layers in the dry-hot valley of Jinsha River
Authors: Xu Duan , Jiao-Jiao Han , Yang-Yi Zhao
Published: July 2020

The soil water was stratified sampling and analyzed with 0–100 cm by three plantation (Leucaena Benth Forest land, Dodonaea angustifolia Shrub land and Heteropogon contortus grassland) at the dry-hot Valley in Jinsha River, at June, September, December of 2016, which were to know about the variation and mechanism of soil water movement. The results showed that (1) soil water in different soil layers is significantly different, and the overall performance is shrub land (11.65%) > grassland (8.29%) > forest land (6.76%); (2) the δD isotope ratio of the soil water from all samples ranged from −146.359% to −54.628% and the δ18O isotope ratio ranged from −20.272% to −2.148%, and there is a good linear relationship between isotope ratios of soil water of three different soils; (3) there is a change with season: the intercept of the isotopes ratio at different months decreased in turn, June < September < December. While the shrub lands and grassland had the same pattern but slightly different, the isotope ratio of soil moisture in December was lower, and the intercepts of shrub land in September were significantly larger than in December; (4) there is a change in space: the total difference isotopes ratio of soil water is larger at the shallow soil layer and changed sharply at all positions of the forestland, while those in the shrub land and grassland changed became relatively weakly. This study provides the theoretical basis for the key problems of plant water using mechanism, ecological water demand, vegetation recovery and so on.
Viewing Latina Immigrant Mothers in Asturias, Spain, Through an Existential Psychology Lens
Authors: Berrocal Elizabeth
Published: July 2020

This paper reports the results of using an existential psychology perspective to examine interview responses of 13 Latina mothers who had immigrated to the Asturias region of Spain. Purposes of the interviews included determining the Latinas’ reasons for immigrating. their post-migration challenges, and their responses to those challenges. Thematic analysis of the Latinas’ answers to interview questions revealed that their deciding to migrate to Spain and their responses to post-migration challenges can be understood in terms of the key existential psychology concepts of free choice and meaning. The analysis revealed two self-identifications that provided the Latinas with life meaning that helped them deal with challenges: Being a Mother and Determination to Move Forward. It is argued that the presence of these two meanings in the Latinas’ experiences provided them with a sense of coherence, purpose, and significance and helps account for the women’s strength and resilience in the face of post-immigration economic, social, and personal challenges and for their choosing to remain in Spain despite those challenges.
Psychosocial Factors Influencing Learning Difficulties Among Individuals with Special Needs
Authors: Oguntayo Rotimi , Agberotimi Samson F. , Oyeleke Johnson T. , Olaseni Abayomi O. , Ayinde Adam A.
Published: July 2020

This study examined the influence of psychosocial factors on learning difficulties among adolescents with special needs. A cross-sectional survey design was utilized. One hundred and twenty adolescents comprising 56.7% males were purposively selected among students at a facility for special needs individuals in Ilorin, Nigeria. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire containing perceived stigma of intellectual disability scale, social support questionnaire and Colorado learning difficulties questionnaire. Only individuals who voluntarily consented to participate were included in the study. Data were subjected to statistical analysis utilizing the SPSS v20. There was no significant gender difference on learning difficulties among individuals with special needs (t (118) =. 138, p>.05). Individuals with high perceived stigma reported significant higher learning difficulties compared to their peers with low perceived stigma (t (118) = 15.70; p˂.05). There was a significant influence of type of disability on learning difficulty (F (2, 117) =9.152, p< .01); individuals with intellectual impairment exhibited more learning difficulty compared with those with visual impairment (8.09) and those with hearing impairment (11.62). The study recommends that government should reinforce law that protect individuals living with disability and enhance their learning in schools. It is also important that sufficient support services are made available for these students to reinforce their motivation for school learning.
Zivilgesellschaft im Ausnahmezustand: Corona und die Folgen
Authors: Klein Ansgar
Published: July 2020

Der Beitrag diskutiert die Folgen der Corona-Pandemie und des damit verbundenen Ausnahmezustandes für die Zivilgesellschaft und deren Akteure. Diese sind durch Aufhebung zentraler Versammlungsrechte in ihrem Alltag schwer eingeschränkt. Ob sich Vertrauen und Solidarität in den nunmehr dynamisierten digitalen Räumen in gleichem Maße wie in direkter Interaktion bilden können, ist offen. Diskutiert werden förderpolitische Konsequenzen, um zivilgesellschaftliche Organisationen zu unterstützen und die Zeit nach Corona mit den Herausforderungen der Klimakrise zu bewältigen.
Antenna tilt optimization for multi-cell massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems with two tilts
Authors: Chu Deming , Hu Anzhong
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we study the optimization of two tilt angles corresponding to two antenna arrays in each base station (BS) of a massive multiple-input multiple-output system. We consider two scenarios with perfect channel state information (CSI) and imperfect CSI. In the limit of the number of the BS antennas, the channel orthogonality is employed to derive the limit and the lower bound of the throughputs. By maximizing the lower bound or the limit throughput, the two antenna tilt angles are optimized. Simulation results show that the throughput performance can be improved with the designed tilt angles.
Effect of tillage, slope, and rainfall on soil surface microtopography quantified by geostatistical and fractal indices during sheet erosion
Authors: Ta Na , Zhang Chutian , Ding Hongru , Zhang Qingfeng
Published: July 2020

Tillage and slope will influence soil surface roughness that changes during rainfall events. This study tests this effect under controlled conditions quantified by geostatistical and fractal indices. When four commonly adopted tillage practices, namely, artificial backhoe (AB), artificial digging (AD), contour tillage (CT), and linear slope (CK), were prepared on soil surfaces at 2 × 1 × 0.5 m soil pans at 5°, 10°, or 20° slope gradients, artificial rainfall with an intensity of 60 or 90 mm h−1 was applied to it. Measurements of the difference in elevation points of the surface profiles were taken before rainfall and after rainfall events for sheet erosion. Tillage practices had a relationship with fractal indices that the surface treated with CT exhibited the biggest fractal dimension D value, followed by the surfaces AD, AB, and CK. Surfaces under a stronger rainfall tended to have a greater D value. Tillage treatments affected anisotropy differently and the surface CT had the strongest effect on anisotropy, followed by the surfaces AD, AB, and CK. A steeper surface would have less effect on anisotropy. Since the surface CT had the strongest effect on spatial variability or the weakest spatial autocorrelation, it had the smallest effect on runoff and sediment yield. Therefore, tillage CT could make a better tillage practice of conserving water and soil. Simultaneously, changes in semivariogram and fractal parameters for surface roughness were examined and evaluated. Fractal parameter – crossover length l – is more sensitive than fractal dimension D to rainfall action to describe vertical differences in soil surface roughness evolution.
Surface properties of thermally treated European beech wood studied by PeakForce Tapping atomic force microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lagaňa Rastislav , Csiha Csilla , Horváth Norbert , Tolvaj László , Andor Tomáš , Kúdela Jozef , Németh Róbert , Kačík František , Ďurkovič Jaroslav
Published: July 2020

Natural constituents of wood cell-wall layers are affected in various ways by thermal treatment. This study investigated the effect of high-temperature treatment on the properties of cell-wall layers. The properties were studied using PeakForce quantitative nanomechanical mapping and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). European beech wood was thermally treated at 200 °C for 1, 3, and 5 h in an oxidizing atmosphere. Modulus of elasticity, adhesion force, and roughness of the secondary S2layer and the compound middle lamella (CML) were determined using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Results showed that both the S2layer and CML were affected by thermal treatment. Stiffening of the S2layer was caused by increased crystallinity of the cellulose-dominated component, having peaked after 1 h of treatment. The degradation thereafter resulted in a decrease of the S2as well as the CML stiffness. An increase of CML roughness after 3 h of treatment was associated with the effect of thermal degradation on CML integrity. The analysis suggested that the reduction in syringyl lignin is potentially associated with an increase in adhesion of cell-wall layers.
Beyond Tauchnitz: Brockhaus’s Foreign-Language Editions, Copyright Law and the Rise of Nationalism
Authors: Gabriele Alberto
Published: July 2020

Expanding the existing framework of a Franco-German axis of dissemination of print culture, this essay discusses a pan-European geography of the book trade to account for the dissemination of foreign-language editions circulating from the nineteenth-century Leipzig book industry and connecting publishers all over the European continent. More specifically, it reconsiders the history of the Brockhaus firm by highlighting its transnational links and the shared practices of the European publishers prior to copyright legislation and the rise of nationalism.
‚Nationaljournale‘ gründen vor 1800: Das Avertissement
Authors: Fischer Hannes
Published: July 2020

On the basis of newly discovered Avertissements, this paper reconstructs the process of founding the popular journals Teutscher Merkur, Deutsches Museum, and Berlinische Monatsschrift in the late eighteenth century. The Avertissements were meant to attract new readers and writers to the newly founded journal. By comparing and analyzing these short programmatic texts, the paper shows how, by developing new strategies of distribution and reader participation, the three monthlies established the concept of the Nationaljournal.
Existence of periodic solutions with minimal period for fourth-order discrete systems via variational methods
Authors: Yang Lianwu
Published: July 2020

By using critical point theory, some new existence results of at least one periodic solution with minimal period pM for fourth-order nonlinear difference equations are obtained. Our approach used in this paper is a variational method.
“If they could, they would put them on a drip with Dutch”: Language learning and the professional integration of migrants in Flanders
Authors: Van Hoof Sarah , Nyssen Sara , Kanobana Sibo
Published: July 2020

This contribution investigates the rationale and implementation of an employment policy that envisions the quick insertion of migrants in the labour market through short and intensive language learning. We present an ethnographic analysis of a short and intensive course of Dutch for migrant job seekers developed in the context of Flemish employment policy. Our data show that the policy is framed in a discourse of empowerment and efficiency, but in its implementation focuses strongly on surveillance, the punitive consequences of which are tacitly attenuated by the practitioners implementing it. The drive towards quick and efficient language learning could be seen to conflict with the unpredictable nature of language learning. A focus on short-term language learning and quick professionalisation trajectories moreover seems to push migrants into low-skilled, precarious employment and to have stratificational outcomes along gendered lines. While arguing for the need to raise awareness of the way gender intersects with issues of language learning and professional integration, this contribution also reflects on the limitations of language learning as a strategy for migrants’ empowerment and contends that an exclusive focus on language as the key to integration erases the structural factors that produce inequality on the labour market.