bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Handheld Versus Conventional Ultrasound for Assessing Carotid Artery in Routine Volunteers
Authors: Jin Lin , Chen Jianxiong , Tong Lanyue , Shen Cuiqin , Du Lianfang , Li Zhaojun
Published: December 2021

Objective: The study aimed to estimate the feasibility and accuracy of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) and hemodynamic parameters measurement in a handheld ultrasound device.Methods: Utilizing an ex vivo pig carotid artery sample, CIMT was measured with a handheld ultrasound and compared with histopathology. Then we performed a carotid ultrasound on 25 volunteers using a handheld ultrasound device and a conventional ultrasound system. After a week, these volunteers were scanned again by the same observer. Assessments of the max IMT, mean IMT and hemodynamic parameters (PSV, EDV, PI, RI, S/D, ACCEL, AT, TAMEAN) were compared. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess inter-device agreement. Repeatability and correlation of mean IMT were analyzed by Bland–Altman Plots and linear correlation analysis. Results: The mean IMT measured from the common carotid artery by handheld ultrasound showed good agreement (ICC=0.79) with conventional ultrasound. Furthermore, we obtained good repeatability and a consistent trend in the mean value of IMT before and after (r = 0.680, P < 0.01). In addition, the max IMT and the hemodynamic parameters (PSV, EDV, S/D, ACCEL, TAMEAN) showed moderate agreement (ICC=0.73, 0.52, 0.58, 0.70, 0.61, 0.51, respectively). The PI, RI and HR values were excellent agreement with conventional ultrasound (ICC=0.80, 0.84, 0.94). Conclusion: About the basic assessment of carotid, the images and parameters obtained using handheld ultrasound showed a moderate to excellent agreement with conventional ultrasound. The handheld ultrasonic devices can be widely used as a diagnostic tool for carotid artery structure and hemodynamics examination.
Behavioral Responses of Bemisia Tabaci Cryptic Species Med to Three Host Plants and Their Volatiles
Authors: liu zhe , CHEN WENBIN , ZHANG SHUAI , CHEN HAN , SU HONGHUA , JING TIANXING , YANG YIZHONG
Published: December 2021

Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) is a worldwide pest that damages more than 900 host plant species. The infestation behavior of this pest is affected by the volatile organic compounds (volatiles) of different plants and their growth stage. We investigated the chemical constituents of the volatiles extracted from three plants (Gossypium hirsutum, Abutilon theophrasti and Ricinus communis) at different growth stages (pre-flowering, florescence and fruiting) and their effects on the behavior of adult B. tabaci. The selectivity studies on three plants showed that the B. tabaci preferred piemarker. The olfactometer studies showed that growth periods of the three plants also affected the preference of B. tabaci. Volatiles of piemarker and cotton plant had different levels of attraction to adults during all stages. Volatile substances released by castor at stage of flowering have a repellent effect on B. tabaci. In the plant VS plant combination ,the adults showed the strongest preference to volatiles from before and during anthesis of piemarker, followed by cotton, and then castor. A total of 23, 22 and 18 compounds were detected from volatiles of piemarker, cotton and castor, respectively, and proportions among the compounds changed during different stages of plant development. The olfactory responses of B. tabaci to volatile compounds showed that linalool and high concentration of leaf acetate had strong trapping effect on this pest, while 1-nonanal had significant repellent effect at high concentration. This study indicates that different plants and their growth stage affects their attractiveness or repellency to B. tabaci adults which is mediated by plant constitutive and dynamic changes. The compounds obtained by analysis screening can be used as potential attractants or repellents to control Mediterranean (MED) B. tabaci.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Two Captive Rhesus Monkey (Macaca Mulatta) Populations as Revealed by Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Du Chao , Mo Bai , Li Wujiao , Liu Wencong , Hu Zongxiu , Xu Yongtao
Published: December 2021

Rhesus monkeyss (Macaca mulatta) are extensively used in the field of medical and psychological research as valuable experimental animals. 15 polymorphic chromosome-specific microsatellite markers were used to analyze the genetic diversity and population structure in two captive individuals. A total of 155 alleles were identified, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from 7 to 15, giving an average number of 10.3 alleles per locus. The mean number of effective alleles (Ne), observed heterozygosity (Ho), expected heterozygosity (He), and the polymorphism information content (PIC) were 5.602, 0.7297, 0.8016, and 0.7716, respectively. The populations HS and XJ shared partial common alleles, however, the remaining in XJ were not detected. Structure analysis indicated that two populations belong to three genetic lineages. AMOVA showed that the genetic variance was 91% among individuals, while it was 9% among populations, respectively. The bottleneck effect analysis revealed that the two captive populations were in accordance with mutation-drift equilibrium. In the comparison of the genetic parameters and structure between the HS and XJ, we speculated that the genetic diversity was higher, which may be attributed to the exchange of germplasm resources and the input of new individuals from wild populations.
Investigation on Corrosion Behaviour of Polymeric Coatings on Weathering Steel Under 3.5% NaCl Solution
Authors: R Venkatesh , Manivannan S , P Kumaresh Babu S
Published: December 2021

Weathering steel, a low carbon alloy steel, most widely used in marine transportation and construction fields like bridges, sculptures where corrosion resistance is the main concern. Weathering steel creates an adhering protective coating on its surface in the right environmental conditions. The protective layer which is formed on the surface weathering steel known as patina. It protects the structure from further corrosion to occur. When these weathering steels are continuously exposed to moisture environment its corrosion resistance decreases. So, our investigation deals about the studies of the coatings used on weathering steel to increase its corrosion resistance in marine conditions. The coatings applied on the substrate were poly urea, polyurethane, epoxy and black enamel. Corrosion tests were performed on these coated samples to evaluate their corrosion behaviour in different environments. Corrosion tests that were performed are immersion test, salt spray test and potentio-dynamic test. The profilometry test is investigated and it confirmed the depth of the corrosion on the coatings. Based on the corrosion studies, we conclude that poly urea is the excellent coating followed by polyurethane, black enamel and epoxy.
LncRNA-DRSGN (Down-Regulated in Spiral Ganglion Neurons) Competes with miR-27a for Binding to FAM172A, Supervises SGN Degeneration and ER (Endoplasmic Reticulum) Stress-Autophagy in CHARGE Syndrome
Authors: Cao Xian-Bao , Lu Bi-Zhang , Pei Jia-Hong , Feng Cun , Guan Yan-Fei , Gong Shun-Min , Li Li , Li Dao-wei , Tao Anzhou , zhang jinqian
Published: December 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Acceptance of Oclacitinib Maleate (Apoquel®) Chewable Tablets In Client-Owned Dogs With Allergic And Atopic Dermatitis.
Authors: Visser Marike , Walsh Kelly , King Vickie , Sture Gordon , Caneva Laura
Published: December 2021

Background: The oral acceptance of oclacitinib maleate (Apoquel®) chewable tablets administered twice daily for 7 days at the labeled dose range of 0.4-0.6 mg/kg was evaluated in 121 dogs treated at ten general practice veterinary clinics in the United States. Results: Dogs that were enrolled in the study ranged were client-owned, from 1 to 14 years of age, weighed 3.7 to 60.7 kg, and required twice daily treatment with oclacitinib for allergic or atopic dermatitis. One hundred and twenty-one (121) dogs with 1,673 total dose administrations successfully completed the study and were included in the data summary. Out of a total number of 1673 administrations, 1533 (91.6%) were accepted voluntarily within 5 minutes, 134 (8%) were consumed with assistance (with food treats or by pilling) outside of the 5 minutes offering time and 6 (0.4%) doses were not consumed. The per dose percent acceptance rate for the 14 offered doses showed minimal variation ranging from 89.9% to 93.3%. Conclusions: Client-owned dogs from the general veterinary patient population that required treatment with oclacitinib found the Chewable tablets to be very palatable and no aversion occurred with repeated dosing. Oclacitinib chewable tablets were well tolerated and is a palatable alternative to the film-coated tablet.
Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Weight Loss and Gut Microbiota Diversity in Obese Patients on a Calorie Restrict Diet
Authors: Wen Surong , Ni Yaojun , Liu Ziyu , Wang Xiaoqing , Zhang Jie , Yu Weinan , Hu Wen
Published: December 2021

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effects of sleep deprivation (SD) on the weight loss and gut microbiota diversity in obese patients on a calorie restrict diet (CRD). Methods: Twenty obese patients who were divided into two groups: sleep deprivation group(SD group,n=10) and non-sleep deprivation group(NSD group ,n=10). All the patients received CRD for twelve weeks. Measurement of anthropometric parameters, biochemical examinations and gut microbiota detection were done at baseline and the end of week 12. MI Bands were used to monitor the sleep and exercise. Body shape parameters were measured by using the JAWON ioi353. The gut microbiota was examined by PCR in the v3-v5 region of 16S rDNA gene, and high-throughput sequencing was carried out on the Illumina Miseq platform. The operational taxonomic units (OTUs) was used for analysis. Results: 1. CRD improved the body weight (BW) , waist circumference(WC), blood pressure (BP),basal metabolic rate (BMR) ,body fat content(BFC),and Insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) in all obese patients. 2. In the NSD group, the BW, BFC, VFA, BMR and total cholesterol (TC) reduced significantly when compared with the NSD group after CRD intervention (P<0.05). 3. The Alpha diversity of gut microbiota remained unchanged after the intervention in two groups after CRD intervention. 4. There was a negative correlation between Mollicutes and BMR in the NSD group. Conclusion: The effects of CRD may be weaken by SD in weight loss and the metabolism of blood lipid. Mollicutes bacteria may be related to the weight loss after CRD intervention in obese patients.
Neuronal GPR30 Participates in Genistein-Mediated Neuroprotection in Ischemic Stroke by Inhibiting NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Ovariectomized Female Mice
Authors: Wang Shiquan , Zhang Zhen , Wang Jin , Ma Lina , Zhao Jianshuai , Wang Jiajia , Fang Zongping , Hou Wugang , Guo Haiyun
Published: December 2021

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is potentially beneficial for the prevention and treatment of postmenopausal cerebral ischemia but inevitably increases the risk of cerebral hemorrhage and breast cancer when used for a long period of time. Genistein, a natural phytoestrogen, has been reported to contribute to the recovery of postmenopausal ischemic stroke with reduced risks. However, the underlying mechanism of genistein-mediated neuroprotection remains unclear. We reported that genistein exerted significant neuroprotective effects by enhancing the expression of neuronal G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) in the ischemic penumbra after cerebral reperfusion in ovariectomized (OVX) mice, and this effect was achieved through GPR30-mediated inhibition of nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation. In addition, we found that Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1α (PGC-1α) was the pivotal molecule that participated in GPR30-mediated inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation in OVX mice after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Our data suggest that the neuronal GPR30/PGC-1α pathway plays an important role in genistein-mediated neuroprotection against I/R injury in OVX mice.
Metal Contaminants Occurrence and Microbial Diversity From the Perspectives of Dual Tolerance by the Bacterial Isolates Along Altitudinal Zonation of River Teesta – a Pristine River System in Eastern Himalayas
Authors: Chettri Upashna , Joshi S R
Published: December 2021

The present study was conducted along River Teesta in Eastern Himalaya. Water and sediment samples were collected from six sampling points during the monsoon and winter seasons along the course of the river. The background information was collected by analysing physico-chemical parameters and the heavy metal concentrations. Culturable bacterial diversity using culture-based and molecular based 16S rRNA approaches characterized bacterial isolates to 5 major phyla, majority belonging Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Firmicutes followed by Bacteroidetes, Alpha-Proteobacteria, Beta-Proteobacteria, Gamma-Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacilli, Flavobacteriia, Deinococci, Sphingobacteriia and Cytophagia. The total of 245 characterized isolates belonged to 69 genera. Diversity indices were calculated for each site. There were variations in the community structure of culturable bacteria along the river stretch with some common and unique groups. Heavy metal tolerance and antibiotic resistance profiles showed some isolates to be tolerant to high levels of heavy metals and multiple antibiotic indicating a major concern. The antibiotic resistance diversified along the human impacted downstream sites. The present report on bacterial diversity and the associated metal and antibiotics tolerance is the first of its kind on Teesta river, the only major river system flowing through the state of Sikkim and parts of North Bengal.
Ocurrence of Blandm-7 And Association With Blakpc-2, Blactx-M15, Aac, Aph, Mph(A), Catb3 And Virulence Genes In A Clinical Isolate of Klebsiella Pneumoniae With Different Plasmids In Brazil.
Authors: Alves Weverton de Oliveira , Scavuzzi Alexsandra Maria Lima , Beltrão Elizabeth Maria Bispo , de Oliveira Érica Maria , Vasconcelos Crhisllane Rafaele dos Santos , Rezende Antônio Mauro , Lopes Ana Catarina de Souza
Published: December 2021

To characterize phenotypically and genotypically an isolate of Multidrug Resistant (MDR) K. pneumoniae from a patient with septicemia in a hospital in Recife-PE, Brazil, resistance and virulence genes were investigated by using PCR and sequencing the amplicons and the plasmid DNA was also sequenced. The K74-A3 isolate was resistant to all β-lactams, including carbapenems, as well as to aminoglycosides and quinolones. By conducting a PCR analysis and sequencing, the variant blaNDM-7 associated with blaKPC-2 and the cps, wabG, fimH, mrkD and entB virulence genes were identified. The analysis of plasmid revealed the presence of blaCTX-M15, aac(3)-IVa, aph(3')-Ia, aph(4)-Ia, aac(6')ib-cr, mph(A) and catB3, and also the plasmids IncX3, IncFIB, IncQ1, ColRNAI and ColpVC. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the blaNDM-7 gene in Brazil and we suggest that this variant is located in IncX3. These results alert us to the risk of spreading an isolate with a vast genetic arsenal of resistance, in addition to which several plasmids are present that favor the horizontal transfer of these genes.
A Dataset of Lost Opportunities The Case of 63 Developed And Emerging Countries Amid The COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Popkova Elena G. , Bogoviz Aleksei V. , Lobova Svetlana V. , Makarenko Elena N. , Sergi Bruno S.
Published: December 2021

The dataset provides the statistics on digital competitiveness, sustainable development, and the COVID-19 cases for 63 developed and developing countries. The dataset calculates digital competitiveness and sustainable development under the adverse impact of the pandemic in 2020. Unlike the stark change compared with 2019, it clears the estimated growth of the other factors’ influence and characterizes the effect of the pandemic and the COVID-19 crisis. Practical significance also comprises evaluating wasted opportunities in 2020 and increasing digital competitiveness and sustainable development, which reflect the difference between simple growth indicators in 2020 and 2019 and growth under the pandemic’s influence. Another advantage of this paper is the forecasting advantage and the alternativeness of the considered scenarios, which allows implementing the estimates in a broad range of scientific studies. The case of Australia and the world economy's forecast for 2021 are elaborated on in the paper.
Evaluation of the Impact of Calibration of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measures on Clinical Trial Results: A Simulation Study based on Rasch Measurement Theory
Authors: Loubert Angély , Regnault Antoine , Sébille Véronique , Hardouin Jean-Benoit
Published: December 2021

BackgroundIn the analysis of clinical trial endpoints, calibration of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) instruments ensures that resulting “scores” represent the same quantity of the measured concept between applications. Rasch measurement theory (RMT) is a psychometric approach that guarantees algebraic separation of person and item parameter estimates, allowing formal calibration of PRO instruments. In the RMT framework, calibration is performed using the item parameter estimates obtained from a previous “calibration” study. But if calibration is based on poorly estimated item parameters (e.g., because the sample size of the calibration sample was low), this may hamper the ability to detect a treatment effect, and direct estimation of item parameters from the trial data (non-calibration) may then be preferred. The objective of this simulation study was to assess the impact of calibration on the comparison of PRO results between treatment groups, using different analysis methods.MethodsPRO results were simulated following a polytomous Rasch model, for a calibration and a trial sample. Scenarios included varying sample sizes, with instrument of varying number of items and modalities, and varying item parameters distributions. Different treatment effect sizes and distributions of the two patient samples were also explored. Comparison of treatment groups was performed using different methods based on a random effect Rasch model. Calibrated and non-calibrated approaches were compared based on type-I error, power, bias, and variance of the estimates for the difference between groups.Results There was no impact of the calibration approach on type-I error, power, bias, and dispersion of the estimates. Among other findings, mistargeting between the PRO instrument and patients from the trial sample (regarding the level of measured concept) resulted in a lower power and higher position bias than appropriate targeting. ConclusionsCalibration of PROs in clinical trials does not compromise the ability to accurately assess a treatment effect and is essential to properly interpret PRO results. Given its important added value, calibration should thus always be performed when a PRO instrument is used as an endpoint in a clinical trial, in the RMT framework.
Homa-Ir Insulin Resistance in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer and Benign Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Castillo-Saavedra Eloisa , Castillo-Dávila Juan José , Quintanilla-Flores Dania Lizet , Soto-García Anally Jamile
Published: December 2021

Introduction: There is evidence that insulin resistance is associated with different types of cancer. This resistance increases the incidence of benign thyroid nodules and the risk of developing Differentiated Thyroid Cancer, however, studies in this regard are required. Objective: To assess if there are differences in the prevalence of insulin resistance in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer and patients with benign thyroid nodule. Material and methods: Prospective, analytical and cross-sectional design study. Patients undergoing thyroidectomy and definitive diagnosis of differentiated thyroid cancer or benign thyroid nodule were included. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were evaluated and differences in prevalence of insulin resistance were identified. To compare continuous variables, Student's T or Mann Whitney's U was used. To evaluate differences in categorical variables, the two-sided Fisher test when two binary variables were contrasted and Pearson's X2 in variables with more than two categories. Factors were analyzed through multivariate analysis obtaining odds ratio and 95% confidence interval.Results: A lower possibility of cancer was concluded: hereditary-family history of thyroid disease and hypothyroidism (OR 0.159; 95% CI 0.038-0.669; p = 0.012). Positive HOMA-IR showed a significant association in residual structural disease (P = 0.050) and local vascular invasion (p = 0.014).Conclusions: No significant association was obtained between positive HOMA-IR and Differentiated Thyroid Cancer, compared with the Benignity group. It seems that there is a greater tendency to lack of structural and biochemical resolution in patients with malignancy and positive HOMA-IR.
Association of Sleep Characteristics and Night Shift Work with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Shao Shuyi , Zhao Huanqiang , Lu Zhiying , Lei Xiaohong , Zhang Ying
Published: December 2021

Background: The association between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and circadian rhythm has been established, but to date, investigations that describe the sleep-wake behavior of PCOS in China are limited. Here, we examined the association of sleep characteristics and night shift work with the risk of PCOS in Chinese women, and investigated their relationship to infertility in PCOS. Methods: From March 21, 2021, to April 31, 2021, a total of 3 927 Chinese women with or without PCOS were recruited online. All participants completed the WeChat-based electronic questionnaires. Sleep characteristics were measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index.Results: A total of 2 871 women were extracted for final analysis. Sleep duration (OR, 0.857; 95% CI, 0.763-0.963), sleep midpoint (OR, 1.142; 95% CI, 1.049-1.244), sleep disturbance (OR,1.320; 95% CI, 0.957-1.146), daytime dysfunction (OR, 1.136; 95% CI, 1.030-1.253) and night shift work (OR, 1.628; 95% CI, 1.264-2.097) were associated with higher risk of PCOS. After adjusting for confounders including age, body mass index, smoking status, coffee and tea drinking status, sleep disturbance (OR, 1.314; 95% CI, 1.111-1.555), daytime dysfunction (OR, 1.143; 95% CI, 1.034-1.264) and night shift work (OR, 1.800; 95% CI, 1.388-2.333) remained associated. In addition, sleep disturbance (OR, 1.887; 95% CI, 1.400-2.542) and subjective sleep quality (OR, 1.299; 95% CI, 1.037-1.627) were related to infertility in women with PCOS, and sleep disturbance (OR, 1.750; 95% CI, 1.281-2.390) remained significant after adjusting for confounders.Conclusions: These results suggest that sleep disturbance, daytime dysfunction and night shift work were significantly associated with PCOS. Screening for sleep disturbance and providing appropriate treatment could be potential strategies to manage PCOS and its long-term complications.
Metagenomic Analysis Reveals the Shared and Distinct Features of Bacterial Communities and Resistomes in Corn Silage from Different Climate Zones in China
Authors: Xu Dongmei , Han Hongyan , Wang Chao , Zhang Yixin , Li Fuhou , Huang Wenkang , Gao Lie , Na Na , Hao Jun , Wang Jian , Li Yanbing , Sun Ruru , Mi Da , Wang Fei , Liang Longfei , Li Jinyang , Xue Yanlin , Yuan Xianjun , Guo Xusheng
Published: December 2021

Background: The emergence and spread of antibiotic resistance are a significant threat to global health. Silage is a major forage feed for ruminants, and its safety is an important guarantee that high-quality ruminant products will remain available to humans. However, little attention has been given to the silage resistome. To define the antibiotic resistome and its potential risk to silage from different climate zones and in response to the ensiling process, this study used metagenomics to investigate bacterial communities and the type and amount of antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) in corn silage harvested from six climate zones (Cfa, BWk, Dwc, Dwa, BSk, and Aw based on Köppen-Geiger climate classification) in China. Results: The composition and succession of silage bacterial communities varied significantly between different climate zones. Lactobacillus was the predominant bacteria during corn ensiling. A total of 134 ARGs were observed in corn silage, with the dominant classes being beta-lactamase and multidrug resistance and the primary mechanisms being efflux pump, inactivation, and target protection. Differences in the resistome were mainly attributed to disparities in microbial composition, which was indirectly affected by climatic factors and fermentation pH. ARG abundance was lower in 90-day silages than 5-day silages except in Hainan silage. The diversity and relative abundance (0.65-0.4% based on total gene number) of ARGs was lower in silage microbiota from Tibet than other climate zones. The dominant ARGs were tetM, oqxB, lmrD, lnuA, ermB, and tetS, and Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus were the primary ARG hosts. Eleven high-risk ARGs were chosen to evaluate the pollution level of silages harvested from different climate zones. The highest relative abundance of high-risk ARGs belonging to Lactobacillus occurred in corn silages from Cfa, Dwa and BWk climate zones. Conclusions: The ensiling process decreased ARG abundance. While resistome contamination of silage from Tibet was relatively low, ARGs with high risk were abundant in silages from Cfa, Dwa and BWk climate zones.
Long-Term Survival after Linac-Based Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Radiotherapy with A Micro-Multileaf Collimator for Brain Metastasis
Authors: Matsuda Ryosuke , Hasegawa Masatoshi , Tamamoto Tetsuro , Inooka Nobuyoshi , Nikimoto Mei , Ochi Tomoko , Miyasaka Toshiteru , Hontsu Shigeto , Yamaki Kaori , Miura Sachiko , Morimoto Takayuki , Mitsui Takaaki , Furuta Takanori , Yokoyama Shohei , Kotsugi Masashi , Yamada Shuichi , Nakagawa Ichiro , Nakase Hiroyuki
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the prognostic factors associated with long-term survival after linear accelerator (linac)-based stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (fSRT) with a micro-multileaf collimator for brain metastasis (BM). Methods: This single-center retrospective study included 226 consecutive patients with BM who were treated with linac-based SRS or fSRT with a micro-multileaf collimator between January 2011 and December 2018. Long-term survival (LTS) was defined as survival for more than 2 years after SRS/fSRT. The tumors originated from the lung (n =189, 83.6%), breast (n = 11, 4.9%), colon (n = 9, 4.0%), stomach (n = 4, 1.8%), kidney (n = 3, 1.3%), esophagus (n = 3, 1.3%), and other regions (n = 7, 3.1%). Results: The median pretreatment Karnofsky performance scale (KPS) score was 90 (range: 40–100). The median follow-up time was 13 (range: 0–120) months. Out of the 226 patients, 72 (31.8%) were categorized in the LTS group. The median survival time was 43 months and 13 months in the LTS group and in the entire cohort, respectively. The 3-year, 4-year, and 5-year survival rate in the LTS group was 59.1%, 49.6%, and 40.7%, respectively. Multivariate regression logistic analysis showed that female sex, a pre-treatment KPS score ≥80, and the absence of extracranial metastasis were associated with long-term survival. Conclusions: Female sex, a favorable pre-treatment KPS score, and the absence of extracranial metastasis were associated with long-term survival in the current cohort of patients with BM.
Casein kinase 1 gamma integrates oxidative stress and innate immune responses
Authors: Ma Long , Hu Yiman , Xu Zhaofa
Published: December 2021

Animals utilize associated pathways to elicit responses to oxidative stress and infection. The molecular mechanisms coordinating these pathways remain unclear. Here, using C. elegans we identified the highly conserved casein kinase 1 gamma CSNK-1 (also known as CK1g or CSNK1G), as a key regulator of these processes. csnk-1 interacted with the bli-3/tsp-15/doxa-1 dual oxidase genes by nonallelic noncomplementation to negatively regulate animal survival in excess iodide, an oxidative stressor. A conserved interaction was detected between DOXA-1 and CSNK-1 and between their human homologs DUOXA2 and CSNK1G2. csnk-1 deficiency resulted in upregulated expression of innate immunity genes and increased animal survival in the pathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA14. Phosphoproteomic analyses identified decreased phosphorylation of key innate immunity regulators NSY-1 MAPKKK and LIN-45 Raf in csnk-1(lf) mutants. Indeed, NSY-1 and LIN-45 pathways were required for the increased survival of csnk-1-deficient animals in PA14. Further analyses suggest that CSNK-1 and SKN-1 Nrf2 might act in parallel to regulate oxidative stress response. Together, we propose that CSNK-1 CSNK1G plays a novel pivotal role in integrating animal’s responses to oxidative stress and pathogens.
Technology and its role in supporting Tuberculosis treatment adherence
Authors: Kale Era Dorihi , Pandin Moses Glorino Rumambo
Published: December 2021

Compliance with TB treatment has now become a problem that must be handled seriously because the high non-adherence rate will give a bad contribution to the success of TB treatment, including MDR-TB and also morbidity and mortality. Many innovations have been made to improve TB treatment adherence, one of which is using mobile-based technology. This article aims to explore the effectiveness of the technology used to improve treatment adherence in TB patients: types, ways of working, advantages, and limitations of each application. This is a systematic review through searching 3 databases, namely Scopus, WoS, and Science Direct. Some of the advantages in applying technology to improve TB treatment adherence are easy to use if you understand how to operate tools/applications are cost-effective because they reduce transportation costs in reaching remote areas or in conditions of transportation difficulties such as after a disaster, the use of this technology provides patient satisfaction in treatment and facilitates the involvement of the family/support system in the treatment of patients. Several things must be considered (limitations) of the technology to be used, including experts, patient knowledge and skills, economic condition, electricity availability, and whether the technology used will not increase the burden on patients related to the stigma of TB disease. We can conclude that the use of technology is indeed very good in supporting the improvement of TB treatment adherence, but the selection of this application must pay attention to the characteristics of the population as well as the advantages and limitations of each application.
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Reduces Depression-Related Self- Referential Processing In Patients With Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Stalmeier Thalia D.M. , Lubbers Jelle , Cladder-Micus Mira B. , Hanssen Imke , Huijbers Marloes J. , Speckens Anne E.M. , Geurts Dirk E.M.
Published: December 2021

Background: Negative self-referential processing has fruitfully been studied in unipolar depressed patients, but remarkably less in patients with bipolar disorder (BD). This study examines the relation between task-based self-referential processing and depressive symptoms in BD and their possible importance to the working mechanism of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) for BD.Methods: The study population consisted of a subsample of patients with BD (n = 49) participating in an RCT of MBCT for BD, who were assigned to MBCT+TAU (n = 23) or treatment as usual (TAU) (n = 26). Patients performed the self-referential encoding task (SRET), which measures (1) positive and (2) negative attributions to oneself as well as (3) negative self-referential memory bias, before and after MBCT. Results: At baseline all three SRET measures were significantly related to depressive symptoms in patients with BD. Moreover, repeated measures analyses of variance revealed that negative self-referential memory bias diminished over time in the MBCT+TAU group, compared with the TAU group. Conclusions: Task-based self-referential processing is related to depressive symptoms in BD. Moreover, the negative self-referential memory bias was specifically amenable to change through MBCT. Future research should explore the possibly mediating role of reduction of negative self-referential memory bias in preventing and treating depressive symptoms in BD through MBCT.
K-means Based Soil Classification System Applicable to a Brazilian Mineral Province
Authors: Coelho Pablo dos Santos Cardoso , Nogueira Gustavo Henrique , Sala Leonardo Alberto , Santos Tatiana Barreto
Published: December 2021

This article presents a geotechnical soil classification system proposed for application on soils of a tropical mineral province, located in Minas Gerais state, Brazil. The system was constructed using data mining techniques, i.e., principal component analysis and k-means cluster analysis, which were applied to a dataset composed of 101 geotechnical characterization laboratory test results of soils from the Province of Quadrilátero Ferrífero. The main objective of the proposed soil classification method was to establish a regional soil classification system, which encompass the interpretability of the main geotechnical parameters of soils by means of the classification, given the little explanatory capacity of the Unified Soil Classification System classification system for the performance of such task. It was possible to establish a chart for soil classification capable of explaining 81.68% of the variability of the analyzed parameters, being established the soil classes A, B and C for the studied soils.
Anatomic Rotational Relationship of Distal Femur in Indian Population and its Implication in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Based Study
Authors: Raja Balgovind S , Gupta Kshitij , Singh Sukhmin , V Abdusamad , Nongdamba Hawaibam , Jain Aakash Prakash
Published: December 2021

Background

Bony landmarks for referencing distal femoral rotation may differ with ethnic populations. The study aims to find out the relationship of the bony landmarks of distal femur for rotational alignment of femoral component in total knee arthroplasty in Indian population and compare it with other ethnic groups.
Methods

Rotational relationship of distal femoral bony landmarks was studied using magnetic resonance images of 141 knees. The condylar twist angle (CTA), Whiteside's-posterior condylar axis angle (WL/PCL), Whiteside's-anatomical epicondylar angle (WL/A-EA) and difference between the two epicondylar axes (S-EA/A-EA) were measured. The effect of gender, side and age of these relationships was analyzed.
Results

The mean CTA, WL/A-EA/WL/PCL and A-EA/S-EA was found to be 5.59 ± 2°, 89.38 ± 2.66°, 5.44 ± 2.88°, 3.11 ± 0.54° respectively. A-EA/S-EA was found to be lower in younger population as compared to the older population. Rest none of the variables showed any significant difference when compared against age, sex or side.
Conclusion

The posterior condylar axis was 5.59˚ externally rotated in relation to clinical epicondylar axis. About 2.5° of added external rotation is required in jigs using the conventional 3° of inbuilt external rotation, if clinical epicondylar axis is taken as reference for apt placement of the femoral component.
Modeling Emissions Sources and Characterization in a Dense Low-Income Township Near Industrial Zones and Mine Dumps (Case of Tsakane, South Africa).
Authors: Singo Shonisani , Mulopo Jean
Published: December 2021

The sources of pollution in Tsakane township, which is situated within the City of Ekurhuleni in the province of Gauteng, South Africa, are investigated in this paper. The City of Ekurhuleni has the most industrial activities reported on South Africa's National Atmospheric Emission Inventory System (NAEIS), accounting for 40% of all listed activities in the country. The problem of suburban air pollution in South Africa is mainly associated with dense low-income areas like townships. The aim of this paper was to investigate atmospheric concentration correlation parameters, emissions roses, and probability modelling functions in order to analyse and classify significant emission sources affecting the township. Sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and PM10 were the focus of the investigation. The probability functions for identifying and characterizing unknown or hidden sources of pollution were developed using hourly data. Furthermore, K-clustering algorithm analysis technique was used to provide graphical context for sources. PM10, ozone, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide have all been identified as having directional pollution sources that are problematic and the results provide baseline data for a detailed understanding of current emission levels and possible sources.
Researching a machine learning algorithm for a face recognition system
Authors: Yevseiev Serhii , Goloskokova Anna , Shmatko Olexander
Published: December 2021

This article investigated the problem of using machine learning algorithms to recognize and identify a user in a video sequence.

The scientific novelty lies in the proposed improved Viola-Jones method, which will allow more efficient and faster recognition of a person's face.

The practical value of the results obtained in the work is determined by the possibility of using the proposed method to create systems for human face recognition.

A review of existing methods of face recognition, their main characteristics, architecture and features was carried out. Based on the study of methods and algorithms for finding faces in images, the Viola-Jones method, wavelet transform and the method of principal components were chosen. These methods are among the best in terms of the ratio of recognition efficiency and work speed. Possible modifications of the Viola-Jones method are presented.

The main contribution presented in this article is an experimental study of the impact of various types of noise and the improvement of company security through the development of a computer system for recognizing and identifying users in a video sequence.

During the study, the following tasks were solved:

– a model of face recognition is proposed, that is, the system automatically detects a person's face in the image (scanned photos or video materials);

– an algorithm for analyzing a face is proposed, that is, a representation of a person's face in the form of 68 modal points;

– an algorithm for creating a digital fingerprint of a face, which converts the results of facial analysis into a digital code;

– development of a match search module, that is, the module compares the faceprint with the database until a match is found
Morphological and chemical characterization of secondary carbonates in the Toki granite, central Japan, and the evolution of fluid chemistry
Authors: Yuguchi Takashi , Hatsukawa Haruka , Suzuki Satoshi , Imura Takumi , Motai Satoko , Nakashima Kazuo , Nishiyama Tadao
Published: December 2021

This study describes the: (1) morphological nature of the calcites in the Toki granite, central Japan; (2) the difference in chemical compositions in terms of morphological classification; and (3) the identification of the stages of calcite formation and the corresponding mass transfer between minerals and fluid owing to hydrothermal alterations and groundwater-rock interactions, which reveals the sequential variations in fluid chemistry during the sub-solidus stage. Calcites in the Toki granite were classified into four types: (1) lenticular calcite in the chloritized biotite; (2) granular calcite in the altered plagioclase; (3) intergranular calcite; and (4) fracture-filling calcite. The lenticular, granular, and intergranular calcites contain greater amounts of iron, manganese, and magnesium than fracture-filling calcites. The lenticular calcite in the chloritized biotite, granular calcite in the altered plagioclase, and intergranular calcite formed due to the precipitation of calcium, iron, manganese, and magnesium released from biotite and plagioclase owing to hydrothermal alterations. The fracture-filling calcites formed at a later stage than the lenticular, granular, and intergranular forms. In the hydrothermal fluid, the concentrations of aluminum, iron, manganese, and magnesium gradually decrease, and the concentration of calcium gradually increases as the alteration proceeds. The chemical characteristics of the fluid at the late stage of hydrothermal alteration and those of the subsequent groundwater are consistent with those of fracture-filling calcites, indicating that the fracture-filling calcites precipitated from the fluid at a late stage of hydrothermal alterations and then from the groundwater. Elements released from biotite and plagioclase owing to hydrothermal alterations were incorporated into and fastened to the calcite. Therefore, the calcites influenced the sequential variations in fluid chemistry during the sub-solidus stage.
Economic Analysis of Law and Protection of Economic and Social Rights
Authors: Savchyn Mykhailo
Published: December 2021

The article reveals the mechanism of ensuring human rights through the prism ofeconomic analysis of law and weighing of constitutional values. The relationship between the economicanalysis of law and the principle of proportionality as criteria for the protection of economic andsocial rights is to ensure a balance of private and public interests. The principle of proportionalityis important in defining the non-discrimination and guaranteeing equal access to social assistance.The first part reveals the role of constitutional justice in protecting economic and social rights.The Constitutional Court of Ukraine protects economic and social rights in accordance with theconstitutionally conforming interpretation of laws pursuant to doctrines of direct action and thehorizontal effect of human rights. The second part of the paper focuses on the role of administrativejustice in the protection of social rights, in particular in the light of the legal construction of humanrights. Finally, differentia specifica protection of the social rights on the example of the right tofreedom of choice of occupation and profession and the right to medical care are highlighted. Thedoctrine of the duty to protect orients the government first of all to provide the infrastructure forthe realization of human rights while respecting human dignity and to take negative and positiveactions to ensure human rights.
Human Rights Obligations of Private Security and Military Companies: A Review of the Current Legal Framework and Practices
Authors: Buriakovska Kateryna
Published: December 2021

The rapid growth in demand for private military and security services among states,international organizations and non-state actors has turned this activity into a powerful industry withmillions of people who perform – on a contractual basis and in exchange for monetary rewards – actions,which, however, often pose risks to the rights of others, local communities and nations around theworld. The author explains the urgency of the article by high-profile cases of possible participationof private military companies in the events of the occupation of Crimea and the armed conflict inDonbas, initiation of new legislation on military consulting in Ukraine and, at the same time, by themodest attention of Ukrainian jurisprudence to human rights obligations of companies providingsecurity services as non-governmental entities. The author examines the evolution of some approaches to the international legal regulation of private military and security activities and their compliance with modern approaches to humanrights. The author analyzes the features of corporate responsibility in the field of human rights ofprivate military and security companies, the content of which is embodied in the InternationalCode of Conduct for Private Security Providers (ICoC). The analysis compares the approaches ofthe International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers and the UN Guiding Principleson Business and Human Rights.
Dispute about the Nature of Law
Authors: Maksymov Sergiy
Published: December 2021

The article analyzes the conditions for a dialogue between Western and post-Soviet philosophy and theory of law on the nature of law (in terms of the first), or understanding of law (in terms of the second), which would create an opportunity for the organic inclusion of the “dispute about the nature of law” elements in the context of the discussion and solving issues relevant to the post-Soviet philosophy of law, including the shift of emphasis from the theoretical to the practical aspect of the problem of the nature of law.

The research begins with a general description of the peculiarities of the “discourse of legal thinking (understanding of law)” inherent in post-Soviet jurisprudence and the identification of ontological and analytical criteria for classifying the types of understanding of law (natural law, positivist, sociological) as the basis for further convergence of post-Soviet and Western experience of understanding of law.

Further, the meaning of the concept of validity of law in its social, moral and legal varieties for understanding the nature of law in general and the corresponding types of such understanding are revealed.

In the final part, attention is drawn to the practical aspects of the study of the nature of law, carried out in the context of “extraordinary cases” existing on the verge of law and un-law. Further analysis reveals the methodological possibilities of comprehending the concept of law through the correlation with the counter-concept of “un-law” using examples: post-Soviet discussions about the relationship between law and statute, legal and non-legal law; Hegel’s concept of right and non-right; contemporary non-positivist approach by Robert Alexy in accordance with the criterion of the “limiting border” of law according to the Radbruch formula.

The conclusions summarize the provisions on the general and distinctive features of the “discourse of the nature of law” and “discourse of understanding of law”, determine the prospects for their rapprochement.