bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transitional justice in Colombia: unrealized potential
Authors: Evseev Aleksandr
Published: October 2021

The article analyzes the theoretical and practical problems that arise during the construction of the Colombian model of transitional justice. The latter is viewed as a combination of judicial and quasi-judicial means, with the help of which it becomes possible to achieve a peaceful settlement after the end of the civil war of 1964–2016. Particular attention is paid to the socio-political context and mass sentiments prevailing in Colombian society regarding the legitimacy of transferring the Anglo-American construction of Transitional Justice to Latin America. The so-called “Integrated System of Truth, Justice, Reparation and Non-Repetition”, which is a consolidated version of the four main elements of transitional justice: criminal prosecution, truth seeking, reparations to the innocent victims and “deal with the past”, is being studied in detail. In particular, the author dwells on the issue of amnesties for participants in an armed conflict, the activities of the “truth commission” and compensation payments to victims of mass violence. In addition, the article examines the activities of the Colombian Special Jurisdiction for Peace, the relevant statistical data are provided. The “Santrich case” is mentioned as a marker of negative trends that continue to grow in the activities of a new jurisdiction. The conclusion is that the legal means of resolving the conflict are secondary, albeit of absolute importance, in comparison with political agreements, to which all participants of the process of national reconciliation sometimes are not ready organizationally and psychologically.
Questions without answers, or Тhe Abortion сase
Authors: Troitskaya Alexandra , Khramova Tatiana
Published: October 2021

In October 2020, the Constitutional Tribunal of Poland delivered a landmark judgment where it held the legislative provision allowing the termination of pregnancy on the grounds of severe and irreversible impairment or incurable life-threatening disease of the fetus unconstitutional. This article presents a study of a fundamental legal conflict that is central to this judgment. It examines the decision of the Tribunal not only in the light of Polish legislation and jurisprudence, but also in a broader context of a biomedical discussion about the beginning of life, a formalistic definition of a legal personality, the idea of equal protection of life regardless of the state health, and the need to protect the rights of a woman that may at times come into conflict with the recognized rights of a fetus. In fact, the arguments that we find in the judgment of the body of constitutional review of a particular state trigger a discussion of the problematic issues relevant for any society. The article also includes an overview of the caselaw of the European Court of Human Rights that, on the one hand, highlights the range of problems that should be addressed by the national regulation of the grounds for abortion, and on the other hand, demonstrates the existing gaps in the fundamental bioethical and legal responses to these dilemmas. The authors suggest a scheme to address these issues that requires a reference to the principle of proportionality and a consideration of positive measures reducing the attractiveness of pregnancy termination that should become an alternative to prohibition of abortions. The study concludes with the finding that the Polish approach towards the absolute constitutional conflict has serious flaws of inconsistency and unwillingness to see the complexity of the problem. Therefore, it is plausible to suggest that the dilemma is far from being resolved. The article employs the objects and methods typical for legal research, but also incorporates the findings of relevant medical, biological and demographic studies that appear to be vital for a full-fledged understanding of this interdisciplinary topic.
Concept of a court or tribunal under the reference for a preliminary ruling: the Court of Justice of the European Union practice
Authors: Sorokina Elena
Published: October 2021

The aim of the present article is to analyse the concept of a “court or tribunal” and its meaning within the preliminary ruling procedure of Article 267 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union. The extensive case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union confirms the need for such analyse. The concept of a “court or tribunal” is one of EU law. There is no abstract definition of a “court or tribunal” in the Treaties and other EU legal acts. Also the Court of Justice has never clarified what a court or tribunal is under Article 267 TFEU. However, according to the Court of Justice’s practice a number of organizational and functional criteria are relevant for determining when a national body can make a preliminary reference. The Court of Justice does not focus on the nomes iuris of a body or its status in the national judicial system. In addition, the Court of Justice examines whether the body making the request for a preliminary ruling is a court or tribunal of a particular EU member state. It is also clear from the Court of Justice’s case law that not all of the different criteria have to be unconditionally met in order for a body to qualify as a court or tribunal that may refer preliminary questions and that some carry considerable more weight than others. It is possible to find a number of the Court of Justice decisions which may qualify in some respect too flexible and insufficiently consistent, with a lack of legal certainty, when requests for a preliminary ruling are declared admissible despite jurisdictional status of national bodies are being questionable. Still, such practice of the Court of Justice and flexibility approach take into account the changes occurring at national level and to be able to develop its case-law abreast of those changes. However, the opposite tendency emerges and the Court of Justice taking a more restrictive position than in previous pronouncements. The Court of Justice pays increasing attention to the criterion of independence when national body’s make a preliminary reference. Such an approach allows a further consistent development of case law specifying both the scope of application and the content of the criterion of independence by the Court of Justice and contributes to optimising the mechanism of cooperation in the preliminary ruling procedure.
Freedom of expression and respect for private life in the context of the development of new information technologies: judicial practice of the ECHR and national courts
Authors: Shablinsky Iliya
Published: October 2021

This article examines and summarises judicial practice in cases related to the use of new information technologies. The study primarily focuses upon the decisions of Russian courts (general jurisdiction and arbitration) and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). Employing ECHR practice, the author also refers to numerous decisions by courts in Hungary and the United Kingdom. Cases related to the use of new information technologies can be distinguished between, and this article examines the judicial practice of three categories of cases: 1) blocking of internet resources; 2) employers’ control over employees’ electronic correspondence; 3) journalists’ use of hyperlinks in author’s texts and their responsibility of such placements. Within each category of cases, the rights of citizens can be seriously violated. The article highlights that in an era of rapid development of new information technologies, states, represented by special services and authorised state bodies, are making unprecedented efforts to ensure that they maintain at least partial control over the activities of new actors (bloggers, Internet media, Internet platforms, etc.). Similarly, courts often compromise with authorities when resolving such issues. Notably, national Russian courts did not consider parties’ interests, nor did they assess the need to block all sites with a particular IP address. They did not even follow the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation’s decision to apply the requirements of the European Convention on Human Rights within the framework of the ECHR. The courts limited themselves to pointing out that Roskomnadzor acted within its power. Thus, the decisions of the national courts did not offer a mechanism for protecting rights. Within the norms regulating the new sphere of relations, there are often norms of a restrictive and prohibitive nature, and these norms are dominant in the Russian Federation. In this regard, there remains grounds for concern among lawyers involved in the protection of rights related to new information technologies.
Normative propositions of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea
Authors: Kolodkin Roman
Published: October 2021

Normative propositions of the international courts, including these of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, are considered in the paper as provisions in the judicial decisions and advisory opinions, spelling out, formulating or describing international law norms, prescriptions, prohibitions or authorizations, which are applicable, in the court’s view, in the case at hand and the similar cases. Such a proposition is considered to be a description of a legal norm, its spelling out by a court, but not a norm or its source. In contrast with legal norms, judicial normative propositions are descriptive, not prescriptive; they may be true or wrong. Normative propositions are not transformed into norms solely by their repetition in judicial decisions. The author considers not only ITLOS decisions but also the Tribunal’s and its Seabed disputes chamber advisory opinions containing normative propositions to be subsidiary means for the determination of the rules of law under article 38(1(d)) of the International Court of Justice Statute. The legal reasoning of the Tribunal’s decision, not its operative provisions, usually features normative propositions. While strictly speaking, the decision addresses the parties of the dispute, normative propositions in the reasoning are in fact enacted by the Tribunal urbi et orbi aiming at all relevant actors, ITLOS including. They bear upon substantive and procedural issues, rights and obligations of relevant actors; they may also define legal notions. The Tribunal provides them as part of its reasoning or as obiter dictum. It is those provisions of the Tribunal’s decisions that are of particular importance for international law through detailing treaty- and verbalizing customary rules. However, the States that have the final and decisive say confirming or non-confirming the content and binding nature of the rules spelt out or described by the Tribunal in its normative propositions. Meanwhile, States are not in a hurry to publicly react to the judicial normative propositions, particularly to those of ITLOS, though they refer to them in pleadings or when commenting on the International Law Commission drafts. At times, States concerned argue that international judicial decisions are not binding for third parties. While the States are predominantly silent, ITLOS reiterates, develops and consolidates normative propositions, and they begin to be perceived as law. The paper also points to the possibility of the Tribunal’s normative propositions being not correct and to the role of the judges’ dissenting and separate opinions in identifying such propositions.
The European Court of Human Rights in Search of Lost Time: an evolutionary interpretation
Authors: Oganesian Tigran
Published: October 2021

Time is central to the case law of the European Court of Human Rights. By monitoring the effectiveness of the Convention’s system, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) tries to maintain relevancy and respond to new challenges. The author notes that the evolutionary interpretation is a method that provides the ECHR with the necessary degree of flexibility to ensure that the implementation of the rights is guaranteed by the Convention. Throughout this comparative analysis, the author emphasises that due to the peculiarities and differences in the legal culture of the respondent States, it is can be extremely difficult for the Court to promote a progressive interpretation of the Convention’s rules, even if it is consistent with the objectives of the Convention. In this regard, the Court’s decision in the Tyrer case is the embodiment of the philosophy of the living instrument. However, the Court presented a model of evolutionary interpretation and failed to immediately demonstrate how it works and will work in the future, which gave rise to a significant part of the criticism. As part of the critical views’ analysis on the application of the ECHR’s evolutionary interpretation, the author highlights that one way to overcome the subjective factor in evolutionary interpretation is the European consensus. This allows the Court to base its decisions on the “common denominator”, that is, not on the judges’ personal preferences, but on the existing consensus among the member States on any given issue. Considering this from a dialogical approach, the author proposes to consider consensus as a form of dialogue that flows from Member States to the Court on the question of what they believe should be the proper settlement of convention rights. The analysis of the application of the evolutionary method’s interpretation by other international courts is carried out, thus proving that the evolutionary interpretation is not merely a figment of the Strasbourg Court’s imagination and nor is it the result of judicial activism, but instead it is the consequence of today’s necessity. The author emphasises that a static understanding of rights and freedoms cannot guarantee the effectiveness of any system of international justice. The textual interpretation of the Convention is blind to contemporary developments and unjustifiably ignores the changed nature of human rights in the twenty-first century. On a practical level, it is likely that politically sensitive decisions will continue to provoke internal criticism. In the final part of the article, the author draws an analogy with Proust’s In Search of Lost Time, noting that the evolutionary interpretation is a kind of formula for the search for time, which simultaneously combines both the past and the present, and is a necessary formula for maintaining the effectiveness and relevance of the conventional system.
Circularly-polarized THz wave emission from a micro-thin water flow
Authors: Huang Hsin-hui , Juodkazis Saulius , Gamaly Eugene , Nagashima Takeshi , Yonezawa Tetsu , Hatanaka Koji
Published: October 2021

Intense THz wave sources are highly expected for further progresses in nonlinear THz science and practical implementation of non-ionizing radiation in sensing and communications. Solid-based sources have inherent limits of material breakdown, while intense laser irradiation of liquids is a promising emerging technique for THz wave and hard X-ray emission. Water-based THz emission shows intensity enhancements up to 10 times when laser-pulse pairs with nanosecond delay are used. Here we show circularly-polarized THz wave emission from thin water flow irradiated by two time-separated and linearly-polarized femtosecond laser pulses. THz time-domain spectroscopy reveals the circularly-polarized THz emission dominates 4.7 ns after the first pulse irradiation. THz wave detection delay in the spectroscopy and time-resolved micrography indicate that the THz wave emission originates from the rarefied volume in front of the flow. Radial relaxation of charges in the focal volume where ponderomotive charge depletion occurred on the optical axis is the origin for the circular polarization (due to spiraling currents). Tight focusing of fs-laser pulses localized THz wave emission to the sub-wavelength (tens-of-micrometers) region.
Prenatal Sonographic Diagnosis and Clinical Management of Fetal Small Bowel Volvulus
Authors: Liu Dequan , Sheng Xuan , Guo Dan , Han Houmei , Gao Yang , Wang Hefeng , Yin Hong
Published: October 2021

Background The purpose of this research is to explore prenatal ultrasound features and clinical managements of fetal small bowel volvulus. At present, researchers mainly focus on the prenatal ultrasound features of fetal small bowel volvulus, and rarely summarize them in combination with the principles of clinical treatment. Methods 11 cases of fetal small bowel volvulus identified by prenatal ultrasound or neonatal surgery in our institution between January 2019 and January 2021 were included. General characteristics of pregnant women, features of prenatal ultrasound, clinical managements and prognosis of neonates were collected. Finally, prenatal ultrasound features and obstetric managements of fetal volvulus was summarized. Results At the first diagnosis, the whirlpool sign and intestinal dilatation were visualized in 11 cases. 3 cases underwent emergency caesarean because of the disappearance of dilated bowel peristalsis, massive ascites and fetal intrauterine hypoxia. The rest 8 cases were followed up by ultrasound, pregnancy outcomes were four regressed intrauterine spontaneously and delivered at term, two underwent emergency caesarean, one premature and one induced labor. 6 cases underwent neonatal surgery immediately after birth and received favorable outcomes.Conclusions Intestinal distention and the whirlpool sign are important ultrasonic features in the diagnosis of fetal small bowel volvulus. The disappearance of intestinal peristalsis of the volvulus segment, massive ascites and intrauterine hypoxia are the main basis for emergency prenatal clinical intervention.
“Management of Femur Shaft Fracture with Nancy Nail in the Setting of Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa”: A case report
Authors: Tarabishi Mohammed Mamdouh , Almonaie Shahd , Mohamed Mohamed Taha Abdelaty , Mousa Weam Farid
Published: October 2021

BackgroundThe management of bone fractures must achieve both the reduction and stability providence. However, dermatological conditions such as dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) for instance can lead to catastrophic events when operating on the patient’s bone fracture. This can lead to wound infections and possible failure of bone healing leading to fracture nonunion. This dermatological disorder leads to heterogenous bullous dermatoses including cutaneous fragility leading to cutaneous bullous formation after exposure to any type of trauma. DEB is a rare inherited form of the disease characterized by the formation of cutaneous bullae. DEB is associated with a genetic mutation of COL7A1 gene that encodes collagen type VII. Due to the rarity and uniqueness of the disease, special modifications due to the challenges faced during the patient care approach were accomplished to prevent any possible harm to the patient. In this study, we propose a case report that is followed by the anesthetic and surgical challenges faced and how they were modified upon.Case PresentationA 20-year-old female presented to the emergency department with a spiral mid-diaphyseal fracture of the femur after an incidence of falling from bed. The patient was previously diagnosed with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa which made this case unique and complex. As the patient was examined by the team, her skin was covered with old blisters and wounds that have developed with the consequence of the disease. Due to the sophisticated dermatological condition and the unique presentation, the established multidisciplinary team took a decision to treat the patient with flexible intramedullary nailing in an open versus closed reduction technique, and modifications of the treatment approach were done based on the challenges in this case. The goal was to provide the management while minimizing the risk of infections and complications that would have arisen. The proposed case will set a baseline for the management of similar cases.ConclusionsWe suggest that in order to manage femur shaft fracture in the setting of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, modifying the management to avoid the least possible skin harm at any expense while managing the bone fracture is the golden approach.
A Deep Learning-Based Hybrid Model of Global Terrestrial Evaporation
Authors: Koppa Akash , Rains Dominik , Hulsman Petra , Miralles Diego
Published: October 2021

Terrestrial evaporation (E) is a key climatic variable that depends on a plethora of environmental factors. The constraints that modulate the evaporation from plant leaves (or transpiration, Et) are particularly complex, yet often assumed to interact linearly in global models due to our limited knowledge based on local experimental studies. Here, we combine in situ and satellite observations with deep learning to model transpiration stress (St), i.e. the reduction of Et from its theoretical maximum. Then, we embed the new St formulation within a process-based model of E to yield a global hybrid E model. In this hybrid, the St formulation is bidirectionally coupled to the the host model at daily timescales. Comparisons against in situ data and satellite-based proxies demonstrate an enhanced ability to estimate St and E globally. Therefore, the proposed approach provides a framework to improve the estimation of E in Earth System Models and our understanding of this crucial climatic variable.
Genomic Epidemiology of Colistin-resistant Enterobacterales from Dutch Patients: A Prospective Matched Case-control Study
Authors: Vendrik Karuna , de Haan Angela , Witteveen Sandra , Hendrickx Antoni , Notermans Daan , Bijkerk Paul , Schoffelen Annelot , de Greeff Sabine , Wielders Cornelia , Goeman Jelle , Kuijper Eduard , Schouls Leo , consortium ColRE survey
Published: October 2021

Colistin is a last-resort treatment option for infections with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. However, colistin resistance is increasing. A six-month prospective matched case-control study was performed in which 22 Dutch laboratories with 32 associated hospitals participated. Laboratories were invited to send a maximum of five colistin-resistant Escherichia coli or Klebsiella pneumoniae (COLR-EK) isolates and five colistin-susceptible isolates (COLS-EK), matched on patient location, material of origin and bacterial species. After confirmatory tests, 72 COLR-EK/COLS-EK pairs (75% E. coli and 25% K. pneumoniae) were included. Twenty-one percent of COLR-EK patients had received colistin, in contrast to 3% of COLS-EK patients (OR>2.9). Of COLR-EK isolates, five contained mcr-1 and two mcr-9. One isolate lost mcr-9 after repeated sub-culturing, but retained colistin resistance. Among 46 sequenced COLR-EK isolates, genetic diversity was large and 19 (41.3%) isolates had chromosomal mutations potentially associated with colistin resistance. In conclusion, colistin resistance is not rare in the Netherlands and caused by the mcr gene in a minority of COLR-EK isolates.
Linezolid Versus Vancomycin for the Treatment of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Acute Hematogenous Osteomyelitis in Children: Higher Anemia Rate During Therapy.
Authors: Li Chao , xu huifa , Liu Zhichen , yan yabo , Diwu Weilong , Sha Jia , Li Ge , Guan Zhexuan , Huang Luyu
Published: October 2021

Background: Clinical use of linezolid for the treatment of methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) acute hematogenous osteomyelitis (AHO) is still limited by lacking data about clinical outcomes and adverse effects of long-term usage in children. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of linezolid and vancomycin for the treatment of MRSA AHO in children.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted between January 2011 and December 2018 at the Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, China, and compared the clinical efficacy and safety of linezolid and vancomycin in children with MRSA AHO. Demographics, clinical features, laboratory tests, susceptibilities of isolates, treatment outcomes, and adverse events were collected. Variables were analyzed by Fisher’s exact test or Mann-Whitney U-test.Results: 17 patients with MRSA AHO were included in this study (6 children received linezolid and 11 children received vancomycin). Statistically significant differenc was observed in the minimum hemoglobin during the treatment between 2 groups [71.0 (IQR 65.0-91.0) vs 102.0 (IQR 91.0-114.0) g/L, P=0.009], and patients in the linezolid group presented higher anemia rate [5 (83.3%) vs 3 (27.3%), P=0.049] than those in the vancomycin group. Conclusions: Although linezolid and vancomycin have no significant difference in efficacy and safety in the treatment of children with MRSA AHO, the incidence rate of anemia was higher during therapy. Children seemed to be more sensitive to the transient bone marrow suppression effect of linezolid in the prolonged use for MRSA AHO.
A Pushing-Grasping Collaborative Method Based on Deep Q-Network Algorithm in Dual Viewpoints
Authors: Peng Gang , Liao Jinhu , Guan Shangbin , Yang Jin , Li Xinde
Published: October 2021

In the field of intelligent manufacturing, robot grasping and sorting is an important content. However, in the traditional 2D camera-based robotic arm grasping method, the grasping efficiency is low and the grasping accuracy is low when facing the scene of stacking and occlusion. Insufficiency and other issues, a dual perspective-based deep reinforcement learning promotion and capture method is proposed. In this case, a novel method of pushing-grasping collaborative based on the deep Q-network in dual viewpoints is proposed in this paper. This method adopts an improved deep Q-network algorithm, with an RGB-D camera to obtain the information of objects’ RGB images and point clouds from two viewpoints, and combines the pushing and grasping actions, so that the trained manipulator can make the scenes better for grasping, so that it can perform well in more complicated grasping scenes. What’s more, we improved the reward function of the deep Q-network and propose the piecewise reward function to speed up the convergence of the deep Q-network. We trained different models and tried different methods in the V-REP simulation environment, and it drew a conclusion that the method proposed in this paper converges quickly and the success rate of grasping objects in unstructured scenes raises up to 83.5\%. Besides, it shows the generalization ability and well performance when novel objects appear in the scenes that the manipulator has never grasped before.
Application of Extracellular Polymeric Substances Extracted From Wastewater Sludge for Reactive Dyes Removal
Authors: Nguyen Dong Thanh , Dinh Hoang Xuan , Nguyen Trang Thi Thu , Tran Quy Van , Nguyen Phuong Minh , Tyagi Rajeshwar Dayal , Nguyen Hoang Viet
Published: October 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate the adsorption of three commercial reactive dyes using extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) extracted from the waste sludge of a beer wastewater treatment plant in Hanoi, Vietnam. EPS was extracted from sludge by HCHO-NaOH method and characterized by the measurement of kaolin flocculation activity, dry weight, chemical composition and functional groups. Adsorption of dyes on EPS was conducted by Jartest at different pH, reaction time and EPS dosage. The EPS was composed of 25% of sludge weight. The FTIR analysis showed the present of amine and carboxyl group in the EPS structure. The removal efficiencies of reactive dyes were high at pH below 6, the contact time was from 30 to 60 min and EPS dosage of 200 – 250 mg/L. At optimum condition, the removal efficiency of 85%, 99% and 99% were obtained for Reactive Yellow 176 (RY 176), Reactive Blue 21 (RB 21) and Reactive Red 241 (RR 241), respectively. The adsorption process could be described by both Langmuir and Fruendlich isothermal equations. The maximum dye adsorption capacity for RY 176, RB 21 and RR 241 was 0.50 g/g, 0.72 g/g and 0.95 g/g, respectively. This study revealed that the EPS in wastewater sludge can be utilized as an effective adsorbent for dyes removal, thereby, enhancing the value of sludge in wastewater treatment.
Tislelizumab Combination With Chemotherapy Successfully Converted Unresectable Advanced Penile Cancer Into Complete Surgical Excision: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Long Xiang-Yu , Zhang Shuang , Tang Lian-sha , Li Xiang , Liu Jiyan
Published: October 2021

Background: Locally advanced Penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) with unresectable inguinal lymph nodes has a poor prognosis, and benefits from surgical treatment alone. Effective conversion therapy regimens are urgently needed.Case Presentation: We report a locally advanced PSCC patient with bulky, fixed inguinal lymph node metastasis complicated within genial skin ulcers, who completed inguinal lymph node dissection and achieved pathologically complete response via conversion therapy by immunotherapy plus chemotherapy.Conclusion: For unresectable locally advanced PSCC, neoadjuvant immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy is a potential treatment approach. Biomarkers of immune efficacy need to be explored. At the same time, clinical trials are needed to test the notions.
Collection, Characterizaton and Conservation of Genetic Resources of Yam Cultivars From Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Faluyi Julius Olaoye , Matthew Joshua Olumide , Azeez Sekinat Okiki
Published: October 2021

This study was initiated to restore the genetic resources of yam which had been decimated in a core yam-producing community in Ekiti State, Southwestern Nigeria. Twenty cultivars, consisting of Dioscorea rotundata, D. cayenensis, D. alata, and D. dumetorum were identified, collected, characterized and multiplied using an On-farm Participatory Method. The yam cultivars were characterized for quality and yield of pounded yam (iyan) as well as starch properties. They were later conserved in the Teaching and Research Farm of the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife.Morphological characterization separated Dioscorea alata (Ewura) by its winged vines while Dioscorea dumetorum (Esuru) was separated by its pubescent spines, trifoliate leaf with acute apex and base and the clustered, irregularly-shaped tuber. All the tubers of the yam cultivars had high storability. Pounded yam quality rated the Ikumo and Ajimokun cultivars as best while Odo was rated average and this was attributed to the swelling properties and amylose content of these cultivars. Yam cultivars with high granules had low swelling capacities. The Brittle Fraction Index of the starch from all the cultivars was lower than 1.0 explaining why the iyan they produced had no crust on the surface and kept for long hours after preparation.From this study, it was concluded that the local yam cultivars collected represent the core of yam genetic resources for utilization in the region. These cultivars are therefore recommended for prioritization in further studies on propagation, conservation and improvement so that a narrow genetic base of cultivars is not encouraged, for example, by promoting cultivars whose vines perform well in tuberization.
Validation of Algorithms Using ICD-10 Clinical Modification (CM) Codes in Claims Data to Identify People With Viral Hepatitis
Authors: Sheu Ming-Jen , Chin Tsung-Wei , Ku Fang-Ping , Li Chung-Yi , Li Sen-Tung , Lu Tsung-Hsueh
Published: October 2021

Background: The ICD-9 Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) coding system was transited into the ICD-10‐CM on October 1, 2015, in the United States and on January 1, 2016, in Taiwan. Little is known on the performance of various algorithms using ICD-10-CM codes in claims data to identify people with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Methods: A proportional systemic sampling of 10,000 patients aged ≥20 years in a health care system in Southern Taiwan were enrolled as study participants. According to the reference standards we confirmed 736 and 555 participants had HBV and HCV, respectively. Results: The algorithms with higher number of outpatient (OP) visits with ICD codes had higher positive predictive value (PPV); for example, the PPV for HBV using algorithm 1 (≥1 OP codes) was 72% and 86% according to ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM, respectively, and that of algorithm 3 (≥3 OP codes) was 80% and 90%, respectively. Similarly, the PPV for HCV using algorithm 1 was 88% and 96%, respectively, and using algorithm 3 was 93% and 99%, respectively. However, the algorithms with higher PPV complemented with lower sensitivity. Conclusions: In conclusion, algorithms using ICD-10-CM codes had better performance than those using ICD-9-CM codes in identifying people with HBV and HCV. Considering the tradeoff between PPV and sensitivity, the optimal algorithm is ≥2 OP visits or ≥1 inpatient visits with HBV or HCV ICD codes.
Multivariable Logistic Regression Equation to Predict Prostate Cancer
Authors: Ma Lu , Cheng Dong , Li Qinghua , Zhu Jingbo , Wang Yu , Jiang Rui , Sun Cheng , Sun Chengrui , Zhang Chao
Published: October 2021

Objective: To explore the predictive value of white blood cell (WBC), monocyte (M), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), fibrinogen (FIB), free prostate-specific antigen (fPSA) and free prostate-specific antigen/prostate-specific antigen (f/tPSA) in prostate cancer (PCa).Materials and methods: Retrospective analysis of 200 cases of prostate biopsy and collection of patients' systemic inflammation indicators, biochemical indicators, PSA and fPSA. First, the dimensionality of the clinical feature parameters is reduced by the Lass0 algorithm. Then, the logistic regression prediction model was constructed using the reduced parameters. The cut-off value, sensitivity and specificity of PCa are predicted by the ROC curve analysis and calculation model. Finally, based on Logistic regression analysis, a Nomogram for predicting PCa is obtained.Results: The six clinical indicators of WBC, M, NLR, FIB, fPSA, and f/tPSA were obtained after dimensionality reduction by Lass0 algorithm to improve the accuracy of model prediction. According to the regression coefficient value of each influencing factor, a logistic regression prediction model of PCa was established: logit P=-0.018-0.010×WBC+2.759×M-0.095×NLR-0.160×FIB-0.306×fPSA-2.910×f/tPSA. The area under the ROC curve is 0.816. When the logit P intercept value is -0.784, the sensitivity and specificity are 72.5% and 77.8%, respectively.Conclusion: The establishment of a predictive model through Logistic regression analysis can provide more adequate indications for the diagnosis of PCa. When the logit P cut-off value of the model is greater than -0.784, the model will be predicted to be PCa.
Trade-off Strategy of Three Dominant Species in Grazing Exclusion of Desert Steppe,china
Authors: ma jingli , Ma Hongbin , Zhou Yao , Lu Qi , Shen Yan
Published: October 2021

Background and AimsGrazing exclusion is a powerful measure to restore the ecological environment in desert steppe. Studying the changing trend of functional traits and trade-off strategy about dominant species what is of great significance to understand the effect of grazing exclusion on species succession. Methods We studied that the change of leaf and root functional traits of three dominant species (Lespedeza potaninii, Agropyron mongolicum and Stipa breviflora) under different term of grazing exclusion. ResultsWe found that the leaf area and leaf nitrogen content, leaf dry matter content, total root length, specific root length and specific root surface of Lespedeza potaninii in grazing were higher than grazing exclusion. The highest specific leaf area, specific root length of Agropyron mongolicum and Stipa breviflora were observed in short-term grazing exclusion. Leaf tissue density and root tissue density significantly decreased in short-term grazing exclusion. Economic spectrum exist, Lespedeza potaninii have more conservation strategy in short-term grazing exclusion compared with grazing. Agropyron mongolicum and Stipa breviflora have more acquisition strategy in grazing exclusion. Average diameters have great effected on above-ground biomass.ConclusionThe result showed that grazing exclusion change leaf and root functional traits of three dominant species, different species have different trade-off strategy.
CIN-Like TCP13 is Essential For Plant Growth Regulation Under Dehydration Stress
Authors: Urano Kaoru , Maruyama Kyonoshin , Koyama Tomotsugu , Gonzalez Nathalie , Inze Dirk , Yamaguchi-Shinozaki Kazuko , Shinozaki Kazuo
Published: October 2021

Plants modulate their shape and growth in response to environmental stress. However, regulatory mechanisms underlying the changes in shape and growth under environmental stress remain elusive. The CINCINNATA (CIN)-like TEOSINTE BRANCHED1/CYCLOIDEA/PCF (TCP) family of transcription factors (TFs) are key regulators for limiting the growth of leaves through negative effect of auxin response. Here, we report that stress-inducible CIN-like TCP13 plays a key role in inducing morphological changes in leaves and growth regulation in leaves and roots that confer dehydration stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing TCP13 ( 35Spro ::TCP13OX ) exhibited leaf rolling, and reduced leaf growth under osmotic stress. The 35Spro:: TCP13OX transgenic leaves showed decreased water loss from leaves, and enhanced dehydration tolerance compared with their control counterparts. Plants overexpressing a chimeric repressor domain SRDX-fused TCP13 ( TCP13pro ::TCP13SRDX ) showed severely serrated leaves and enhanced root growth. Transcriptome analysis of TCP13pro ::TCP13SRDX transgenic plants revealed that TCP13 affects the expression of dehydration- and abscisic acid (ABA)-regulated genes. TCP13 is also required for the expression of dehydration-inducible auxin-regulated genes, INDOLE-3-ACETIC ACID5 ( IAA5 ) and LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES ( LOB) DOMAIN 1 ( LBD1 ). Furthermore, tcp13 knockout mutant plants showed ABA-insensitive root growth and reduced dehydration-inducible gene expression. Our findings provide new insight into the molecular mechanism of CIN-like TCP that is involved in both auxin and ABA response under dehydration stress.
Elevated Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 is Associated with Intracranial Atherosclerosis
Authors: Wang Yuan , Liu Gang , Song Haiqing , Cao Catherine , Ji Xunming , Cao Guodong
Published: October 2021

BackgroundLipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an inflammatory factor in atherosclerotic plaque pathogenesis and is associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. Whether Lp-PLA2 is associated with the stenosis subtypes in acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has not been investigated. Methods126 eligible AIS patients were divided into four groups 1) no cerebral artery stenosis (NCS); 2) intracranial artery stenosis (ICAS); 3) extracranial artery stenosis (ECAS); and 4) combined intracranial and extracranial artery stenosis (IECS). The associations between serum Lp-PLA2 levels and the stenosis subtypes were statistically assessed. ResultsThe ICAS group had a lower frequency of dyslipidemia as compared with the NCS group and the IECS group (35.3% vs. 70% vs. 71.8%, P=0.001), and was more likely to be symptomatic than the ECAS group (76.5% vs. 43.8%, P=0.014). The Lp-PLA2 level in the ICAS group was 112.2±66.8 μg/L, which was higher than that in the NCS, ECAS and IECS groups (81.7±38.5, 106.1±57.8, 89.3±52.2 μg/L, respectively, P=0.025). In the 3rd and 4th quartiles of Lp-PLA2 level, stenosis occurred more frequently in the ICAS group than in the other three groups (3rd Q: 50.0% vs. 3.1% vs. 28.1% vs. 18.8%, P=0.002; 4th Q: 48.4% vs. 16.1% vs. 25.8% vs. 9.7%, P=0.014). The Lp-PLA2 level was higher in patients with more or severe stenosis in the ICAS group. ConclusionsElevated Lp-PLA2 level was differentially associated with increased risk in AIS patients with ICAS as compared to those with ECAS or no stenosis. Lp-PLA2 is a promising biomarker for ICAS and may be a potential therapeutic target for ICAS.
The Role of Laundry Detergents in the Elements of Skin Pathogen
Authors: Wei Erdong , Reinholz Markus , French Lars E. , Clanner-Engelshofen Benjamin M.
Published: October 2021

Background: The Corona pandemic fuelled up skin pathogen challenges in young and adults, the antimicrobial efficacy of laundry detergents could be considered particularly. However, no available data focusing on the form of laundry detergent, additives and conditions affect the antimicrobial efficacy. This study simulated washing procedures to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of laundry detergents.Methods and Results: Mimic laundry procedures were performed to treat Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria and fungus, colony counting and propidium iodide staining were used to assess the antimicrobial activity. Powder detergent A, NaBO3*4H2O with the tetraacetylethylenediamine, 2Na2co3.3H2O with tetraacetylethylenediamine could achieve a > 5-log10 reduction of three microbial colony generation. Anionic surfactant sodium dodecylbenzene sulphonate (SDBS) group had the strongest fluorescence intensity in three microbial propidium iodide staining.Conclusions: Powder form laundry detergents are superior to liquid form, peroxide-based bleaches and bleach activator in solid form, the solid surfactants with matched PH and alkyl chain length showed a considerable antimicrobial effect.
Influence of Demographic Characteristics and Emotional State of NAFLD in Patients and their Caregivers on Caregiver Burden in China
Authors: Luo juan , Liu Jun , Lei Huang , Yunju Zhang , Yun Wang , Zhou Yixia
Published: October 2021

Objective: This study examines the demographic characteristics of patients and caregivers hospitalized with NAFLD and the impact of patient anxiety and depression on caregiver burden. Methods ： One hundred and forty-five patients with NAFLD and their caregivers were studied. Both patients and family members were required to complete a general information questionnaire, patients were required to complete the Generalized Anxiety Scale (GAD-7), the Patient Health Depression Questionnaire Scale (PHQ-9), and caregivers were required to complete the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI). Descriptive analysis, univariate analysis, and multiple stepwise regression were used to analyze the effects of each factor on caregiver burden.Results: The results of the univariate analysis showed that patients' marital status, chronic illness, GAD-7, and PHQ-9 scores, and caregivers' literacy, relationship with patients, full-time caregiving, recreational activities, daily caregiving hours, and monthly economic income were influential factors of caregiver burden (P < 0.05). The multiple stepwise regression analysis results showed that the four factors of concluding patient's PHQ-9 score, caregiver-patient relationship, daily caregiving hours, and monthly economic income significantly influenced caregiver burden (P < 0.05). Conclusion: caregiver-patient relationship, length of caregiving per day, and monthly financial income affect caregiver burden. In addition, depression in patients hospitalized with NAFLD is one of the main influencing factors of caregiver burden and should be taken seriously.
Treatment of Iatrogenic Cervical Esophageal Transection following Thyroidectomy: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Hsueh Kai-Yun , Tang En-Kuei
Published: October 2021

Background: iatrogenic cervical esophageal transection after thyroidectomy is an extremely rare condition that requires prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention.Case presentation: we reported a rare case of iatrogenic cervical esophageal transection following thyroidectomy for thyroid carcinoma in a 54-year-old woman. Primary repair was not achievable because of loss of a long segment of the cervical esophagus. A modified diversion was performed by inserting a T-tube into the remnant esophagus, followed by gastrostomy and jejunostomy. The next day, mediastinal abscess was detected on chest computed tomography; therefore, thoracoscopic mediastinotomy was performed, with placement of two drains. After 6 months, thoracoscopic esophagectomy, alimentary reconstruction with gastric pull-up, and cervical esophagogastrostomy anastomosis were performed. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 18, without complications.Conclusions: iatrogenic cervical esophageal transection following thyroidectomy is a rare but fatal complication. It can be successfully managed with a series of treatments, including modified diversion procedure, prompt drainage of mediastinitis, alimentary reconstruction with gastric pull-up, and cervical esophagogastrostomy anastomosis.
Beliefs and Use of Forefoot Lateral Wedging in Podiatric Practice: A Survey of Podiatrists in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Jackson Aaron , Sheerin Kelly , Reid Duncan , Carroll Matthew
Published: October 2021

Background

There is currently limited evidence exploring the beliefs and application of forefoot lateral wedges in clinical practice by podiatrists. The study aimed to understand rationale and beliefs that guided the use of forefoot lateral wedges amongst Aotearoa New Zealand podiatrists.
Methods

A cross-sectional study of Aotearoa New Zealand podiatrists was conducted between 31st May 2021 and 26th July 2021. Data were collected anonymously using a web-based survey platform. The 30-item survey included questions to elicit participant characteristics, why and when podiatrists used orthotic modifications, what biomechanical assumptions influenced clinical decision making, and how podiatrists fabricated and placed forefoot lateral wedging. The survey findings were reported using descriptive statistics.
Results

Sixty-five podiatrists completed the survey. Most respondents were trained in Aotearoa New Zealand (91%), had over 10 years’ experience (70%), and worked with a mixed case load (60%). Seventy-seven percent (77%) prescribed 0 to 10 pairs of foot orthoses per week, with forefoot lateral wedges used in 44% of prescriptions. Forefoot lateral wedges were likely to be used in the treatment of peroneal tendon injuries (70%) and chronic ankle instability (64%). The most common belief being that forefoot lateral wedges increase first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion (86%). Forefoot lateral wedges were regularly manufactured from 3mm (74%), medium density ethylene vinyl acetate (91%) and positioned from the calcaneo-cuboid joint (53%) to the sulcus (77%).
Conclusion

New Zealand podiatrists frequently use forefoot lateral wedges in clinical practice. Respondents were predominately guided by the underpinning belief that forefoot lateral wedging reduces tissue stress and have their greatest functional impact on first metatarsophalangeal joint range of motion. Forefoot lateral wedges are commonly manufactured from 3mm ethylene vinyl acetate, although it is important to be aware that this will translate to differing angles, dependant on width. Further research should be undertaken to explore the influence of forefoot lateral wedges on forefoot function and the effect of wedge length.
Detecting 17 Fine-Grained Dental Anomalies from Panoramic Dental Radiography using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Lee Sangyeon , Kim Donghyun , Jeong Hogul
Published: October 2021

Panoramic dental radiography is one of the most common examinations performed in dental clinics. Compared with other dental images, it covers a wide area from individual teeth to the maxilla and mandibular area. Dental clinicians can get much information about patients’ health. However, it is time-consuming and laborious to detect all signs of anomalies because these regions are very complicated. So it is needed to filter out healthy images to save clinicians’ time to examine. For this, we applied modern artificial intelligence-based computer vision techniques. In this study, we built a model to detect 17 fine-grained dental anomalies which are critical to patients’ dental health and quality of life. We used about 23,000 anonymized panoramic dental images taken from local dental clinics from July 2020 to July 2021. Our model can detect these abnormal signs and filter out normal images with high sensitivity of about 0.99. The result indicates that our model can be used in real clinical practice to alleviate the burden of clinicians.