bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Expression of MicroRNA-3148 in Patients with Osteoporosis and Its Impacts on the Osteogenic Differentiation of Rat Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Damaola Ainiwaerjiang , Aierken Maerdan , Muertizha Mieralimu , Abudoureheman Abudouaini , Lin Haishan , Wang Li
Published: June 2021

We aimed to explore the effects of rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on osteogenic differentiation via analyzing miR-3148 expression in patients with osteoporosis. Realtime quantitative PCR was conducted for assessing microRNA-3148 expression. BMSCs from SD rats were transfected
with microRNA-3148 mimics and microRNA-3148 inhibitor via liposomal trans-fection method utilizing Lipo2000, followed by analysis of microRNA-3148 level. After 10-days of osteogenic differentiation induction, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining and alizarin red (ARS) staining were done to
investigate the osteogenic differentiation potential. Simultaneously, qRT-PCR measured the expression of osteogenesis marker genes (BMP and Runx2) in each group. qRT-PCR analysis revealed a high expression of miR-3148 in the bone tissue and the serum samples from patients with osteoporosis
in comparison with healthy individuals. In addition, miRNA-3148 mimics could retard the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, while microRNA-3148 inhibitor could prompt the procedure. MicroRNA-3148 was highly expressed in the skeletal tissues and the serum samples from patients with osteoporosis
and it could restrain the differentiation of BMSCs into osteoblasts, suggesting that it might be a novel therapeutic target for treating osteoporosis.
Sequoyitol Alleviates High Glucose-Induced Inflammation, Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis of Retina Epithelial Cells
Authors: Hu Liping , Zhang Rui , Wu Jianhua , Feng Chao , Kong Li
Published: June 2021

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a serious microvascular complication of diabetes, contributing to visual impairment and blindness. Sequoyitol (Seq), a form of inositol derivatives, has been demonstrated to be a therapeutic potential for diabetes and diabetic nephropathy. The aim of this
study is to explore the effects of Seq on DR. ARPE-19 cells were cultured in high glucose (HG) condition to simulate DR in vitro. Seq (1,10 and 20 µM) was applied for treatment. CCK-8 assay was performed to detect cell viability. Flow cytometry analysis was conducted to
determine cell apoptosis rate. The production level of inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress-related factors were determined using their commercial kits. The protein expressions of corresponding genes were detected using western blotting. The results revealed that Seq significantly increased
cell viability and protein expression of PCNA and Ki67 which were decreased after HG induction. HG promoted cell apoptosis by decreasing protein expression of Bcl-2 and increasing protein expression of Bax and cleaved caspase-3, which was then reversed by Seq treatment. Besides, Seq abolished
the promoting effects of HG on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress-related factors. Furthermore, Seq suppressed the promoting effect of HG on the activation of NF-κB signaling by inhibiting phosphorylation of kBa and NF-κB nucleus translocation.
These results indicated that Seq might protect ARPE-19 cells against HG-induced cell viability, apoptosis, inflammation and oxidative stress by regulating NF-κB signaling, providing evidence for the potential application of Seq in the therapy of DR.
The Role of MRPL23 Antisense RNA 1 (MRPL23-AS1) in the Pre-Metastatic Microenvironment of Malignancy During the Process of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Zhang Chong , Gu Huxia , Liu Dingrong , Fang Jing , Yang Yan
Published: June 2021

We aimed to explore MRPL23-AS1’s role in the pre-metastatic microenvironment of malignancy during epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Identification and verification of lncRNA-interacting proteins in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) cells were conducted via RNA-pulldown,
silver staining, and Western blotting. RIP and RIP-seq were sequentially administered to verify the binding partners of lncRNA. CHIRP was performed to detect the promoter DNA in the downstream of lncRNA-protein complex. Ultimately CHIP-qPCR detected the effects of lncRNA on the binding degree
of its interacting protein to the promoter DNA in the downstream genes and the methyla-tion level of histones in the promoter region. The exosomes secreted by different SACC cells were extracted from culture supernatant to measure lncRNA expression via qPCR. MRPL23-AS1 interacted with EZH2
protein and promoted EZH2 binding to E-cadherin gene promoter region along with the H3K27 methylation. MRPL23-AS1 could promote EMT of SACC cells and increase pulmonary vascular endothelial cells permeability via exosomes secretion. MRPL23-AS1 up-regulated VEGFA, while down-regulated E-cadherin
and VE-cadherin in endothelial cells. Exosomes rich in MRPL23-AS1 could boost lung metastasis in vivo. MRPL23-AS1 inhibits E-cadherin level and promotes EMT of SACC cells, suggesting that it might be a biomarker and therapeutic target for lung cancer.
Interleukin-27 Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Ovalbumin-Induced Mice Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , He Chao , Li Xin , Zhang Zewen , Liu Ju , Sun Congcong , Li Zeming , Zhang Caiqing
Published: June 2021

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of bronchial epithelial cells is a critical mechanism involved in transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) induced asthma airway remodeling. Previous study has shown that interleukin 27 (IL-27) attenuates EMT in alveolar epithelial
cells, but its effects on the BEAS-2B human bronchial epithelial cell line EMT remain unknown. Herein, we explored the effects of IL-27 on BEAS-2B EMT in vivo and in vitro. In the in vivo experiments, we found that IL-27 nose-drip therapy alleviated airway remodeling, increased
the epithelial phenotypic marker epithelial-cadherin (E-cadherin), and decreased the mesenchymal phenotypic marker alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) compared with the asthmatic control group. We also found that IL-27 suppressed the signal transducer and activator of transcription
(STAT3) in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice. in vitro, TGF-β1-induced EMT changes, including downregulation of E-cadherin and upregulation of α-SMA, were suppressed by IL-27 treatment. Additionally, STAT3 phosphorylation was activated by TGF-β1,
whereas IL-27 inhibited the activation of TGF-β1 induced STAT3 phosphorylation. Our findings indicated that IL-27 could inhibit airway remodeling by attenuating bronchial epithelial cell EMT in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, IL-27 may be a beneficial therapeutic option
targeting asthmatic airway remodeling.
Expression of LncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 in a Mouse Model of Atherosclerosis and Its Effect on Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein-Induced Vascular Endothelial Cell Injury
Authors: Tan Zhengli , Li Lei
Published: June 2021

The occurrence of vascular endothelial injury is key to the progression of atherosclerosis (AS). This research explores the expression of lncRNA DLGAP1-AS1 in a mouse model of atherosclerosis and its effect on ox-LDL-induced vascular endothelial cell injury. A mouse model of AS was
constructed, and DLGAP1-AS1 expression was detected using the nano real-time PCR method. Vascular endothelial cells (VEC) are categorized into four groups. Flow cytometry detects cell apoptosis, and Western blot detects Bax and Bcl-2 expressions; WST-8 method detects level of SOD. Thiobarbituric
acid method, Ammonium molybdate colorimetric method, DCFH-DA method were used to detect MDA, CAT, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, respectively. Bioinformatics software predicted the target genes of DLGAP1-AS1. DLGAP1-AS1 expression was raised in AS mice, apoptotic rate and Bax expression
in the ox-LDL group were raised, Bcl-2 expression was abated, MDA and ROS levels were raised, SOD and CAT levels were abated than in control. The si-DLGAP1-AS1+ox-LDL group decreased cell death and Bax expression, increased Bcl-2 expression, decreased MDA and ROS levels, and increased SOD
and CAT levels than in the si-NC+ox-LDL group. Down-regulation of DLGAP1-AS1 was targeted in order to promote miR-26a-5p expression. Compared with co-transfection with DLGAP1-AS1 siRNA and inhibitor control, the apoptosis rate and Bax expression were increased after co-transfection with DLGAP1-AS1
siRNA and miR-26a-5p inhibitor, Bcl-2 expression was decreased, and MDA and ROS levels were increased, the level of SOD and CAT were decreased. DLGAP1-AS1 was up-regulated in AS mice and downregulated to promote miR-26a-5p to inhibit ox-LDL-induced vascular endothelial cell death and oxidative
damage.
Essential Oils & Burns: A Case Report of Second Degree Burns Following Bergamot Oil Application and Ultra-Violet A Ray Exposure
Authors: Driscoll Cassandra , Miller Jonathan , Feldman Michael
Published: June 2021

Over the past decade there has been a dramatic increase in the consumption of complementary and alternative medicine. The market for supplements and topical agents has grown, with recent reports estimating its value at 6.63 billion dollars. As more consumers utilize these largely unregulated products, it follows that healthcare providers will encounter new injury patterns related to them. Here we will discuss the evaluation and management of phototoxic reaction injuries sustained in a healthy 25-year-old female as a result of exposure to essential oils in the setting of ultra-violet A radiation.
The relationship between bite force, morphology, and diet in southern African agamids
Authors: Tan W. C. , Measey J. , Vanhooydonck B. , Herrel A.
Published: June 2021

Background

Many animals display morphological and behavioural adaptations to the habitats in which they live and the resources they exploit. Bite force is an important whole-organism performance trait that allows an increase in dietary breadth, the inclusion of novel prey in the diet, territory and predatory defence, and is important during mating in many lizards.

Methods

Here, we study six species of southern African agamid lizards from three habitat types (ground-dwelling, rock-dwelling, and arboreal) to investigate whether habitat use constrains head morphology and bite performance. We further tested whether bite force and head morphology evolve as adaptations to diet by analysing a subset of these species for which diet data were available.

Results

Overall, both jaw length and its out-lever are excellent predictors of bite performance across all six species. Rock-dwelling species have a flatter head relative to their size than other species, possibly as an adaptation for crevice use. However, even when correcting for jaw length and jaw out-lever length, rock-dwelling species bite harder than ground-dwelling species. Diet analyses demonstrate that body and head size are not directly related to diet, although greater in-levers for jaw closing (positively related to bite force) are associated to an increase of hard prey in the diet. Ground-dwelling species consume more ants than other species.

Conclusions

Our results illustrate the role of head morphology in driving bite force and demonstrate how habitat use impacts head morphology but not bite force in these agamids. Although diet is associated with variation in head morphology it is only partially responsible for the observed differences in morphology and performance.
Place4Carers: a multi-method participatory study to co-design, piloting, and transferring a novel psycho-social service for engaging family caregivers in remote rural settings
Authors: Graffigna Guendalina , Gheduzzi Eleonora , Morelli Niccolò , Barello Serena , Corbo Massimo , Ginex Valeria , Ferrari Roberta , Lascioli Andrea , Feriti Carolina , Masella Cristina
Published: June 2021

Background

Family caregivers are key actors in the ageing society. They are mediators between practitioners and patients and usually provide also essential daily services for the elders. However, till now, few services have been deployed to help caregivers in their care tasks as in improving their mental health which can experience sever burden due to caregiving duties. The purpose of the study is to implement a community-based participatory research project to co-design an innovative organizational model of social services for family caregivers of elderly health consumers living in remote rural areas in Italy.

Methods

This is a community-based participatory research project in the remote area of Vallecamonica involving four main phases. These included a quantitative analysis of caregiver needs, a scoping review on existing services for caregivers, co-design workshops with local stakeholders and caregivers to create a novel service the piloting and a first implementation of the service and the assessment of project transferability to other contexts.

Results

As the hours dedicated to elder care increases, both objective and developmental caregiver’s burden significantly increases. Conversely, higher levels of engagement were associated with lower physical and emotional burden, and caregiver engagement was positively correlated with their perceived self-efficacy in managing disruptive patient behaviours. Based on these preliminary results, four co-design workshops with caregivers were conducted and led to the definition of the SOS caregivers service, built on four pillars structured upon the previous need analysis: a citizens’ management board, training courses, peer-to-peer meetings, and project and service information. We found that co-design is an effective means of creating new services for family caregivers, whose experiential knowledge proved to be a key resource for the project team in delivering and managing services. Less positively, the transferability analysis indicated that local municipalities remain reluctant to acknowledge caregivers’ pivotal role.

Conclusions

A dedicated support service for caregivers can ameliorate caregiving conditions and engagement levels. The service has resulted a successful co-productive initiative for a psycho-social intervention for family caregivers. For the future, we suggest that family caregiver should be considered an active partner in the process of designing novel psycho-social services and not just as recipients to enhance a better aging-in-place process.
Healthcare-induced trauma in correctional facilities: a qualitative exploration
Authors: Elumn Johanna E. , Keating Layne , Smoyer Amy B. , Wang Emily A.
Published: June 2021

Background

While incarcerated people are known to experience trauma at higher rates than the general population, little is known about how the correctional health system contributes to trauma rates.

Methods

We conducted 20 semi-structured qualitative interviews with men who were recently released from a correctional system to understand their experiences with healthcare systems and medical staff during incarceration. Using reflexive thematic analysis within a critical realist framework, we coded and analyzed the data iteratively to refine and unify emerging themes.

Results

The unanticipated concept of healthcare-induced trauma emerged and was revealed in three overall themes: (1) healthcare leading to fear of serious illness or death, (2) healthcare leading to fear of people, including healthcare providers, correctional staff, and other incarcerated people, and (3) the correctional institutional, social, and physical environment leads to fear of place.

Conclusions

Healthcare in correctional settings has the potential to induce trauma, even when the medical conditions addressed are not life-threatening. Future research should examine the factors contributing to the development of healthcare-induced trauma in correctional settings and develop interventions to prevent and address this phenomenon.
Super twisting sliding mode approach applied to voltage orientated control of a stand-alone induction generator
Authors: Bendjeddou Yacine , Deboucha Abdelhakim , Bentouhami Larafi , Merabet Elkheir , Abdessemed Rachid
Published: June 2021

To enhance the robustness and dynamic performance of a self-excited induction generator (SEIG) used in a stand-alone wind energy system (WES), a virtual flux oriented control (VFOC) based on nonlinear super-twisting sliding mode control (STSMC) is adopted. STSMC is used to replace the conventional proportional-integral-Fuzzy Logic Controller (PI-FLC) of the inner current control loops. The combination of the proposed control strategy with space vector modulation (SVM) applied to a PWM rectifier brings many advantages such as reduction in harmonics, and precise and rapid tracking of the references. The performance of the proposed control technique (STSMC-VFOC-SVM) is verified through simulations and compared with the traditional technique (PI-FLC-VFOC-SVM). It shows that the proposed method improves the dynamics of the system with reduced current harmonics. In addition, the use of a virtual flux estimator instead of a phase-locked loop (PLL) eliminates the line voltage sensors and thus increases the reliability of the system.
Concept confirmation of the Treatment Administration Satisfaction Questionnaire (TASQ) in rare paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Doll Helen , Coşkun Ufuk , Hartford Chris , Tomazos Ioannis
Published: June 2021

Background

This study was conducted to evaluate content validity of the IntraVenous and SubCutaneous Treatment Administration Satisfaction Questionnaires (TASQ-IV and TASQ-SC), for use in a clinical trial population of participants with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) undergoing eculizumab treatment.

Methods

Participants underwent semi-structured combined brief introduction to disease history and full cognitive debriefing interviews to establish symptoms and key impacts of PNH and to explore the clarity and relevance of both sets of instructions (TASQ-IV and TASQ-SC). The clarity, relevance, response options, and recall period of the TASQ-IV items were also explored.

Results

Ten participants with PNH were recruited. Fatigue was the most commonly reported symptom (n = 7); the most commonly reported impact of PNH was on physical activity (n = 4). Nine participants indicated understanding and relevance of the TASQ-IV instructions; three participants suggested changes. Of the 20 TASQ-IV items, ≥ 15 were considered understandable, relevant and to have suitable response options (n ≥ 8). The TASQ-SC instructions were understood by all participants; seven participants indicated relevance. While a few participants suggested minor changes for the items, these reflected the one-off completion of the measure in an interview setting and were thus not considered sufficient to justify modification of the measure for clinical trial completion.

Conclusions

Most participants understood the TASQ-IV and TASQ-SC instructions (n = 9 and 10, respectively) and the TASQ-IV items were considered clear, relevant and to have suitable response options, demonstrating face and content validity of the instruments for the clinical trial setting.
Milo Rau’s Work as Artistic Director of NTGent
Authors: Boenisch Peter M. , Houe Lise Sofie
Published: June 2021

Peter M. Boenisch and Lise Sofie Houe survey the 2018–20 tenure of Swiss director Milo Rau as artistic director of ntgent, the city theater of Ghent, Belgium. Contextualizing his role and actions within the European city theater system, the authors also examine his artistic programming and output in the period, personally and institutionally, with particular emphasis on works produced at ntgent. The authors focus especially on Rau’s efforts to produce work with global collaborators, as seen in his Orestes in Mosul (2019) and other works. Boenisch and Houe additionally summarize critiques of Rau’s practice from other thinkers and artists and Rau’s response to these critiques.
Construtora Meireles & Silva: impacto do viés inconsciente na carreira das mulheres
Authors: Pereira Cristina Kerr de Barros , Fernandes Gustavo Andrey de Almeida Lopes
Published: June 2021

Ricardo e Alfonso fundaram a Construtora Meireles & Silva há mais de 20 anos, quando se formaram na faculdade. Porém, uma situação sempre incomodava Ricardo: o baixo número de mulheres em posições de liderança na sua empresa. Após participar de uma palestra sobre Diversidade e Inclusão num evento de inovação, ficou clara para Ricardo a origem dessa situação. Juntamente com seu sócio, eles começaram uma mudança na empresa. Mas será que toda a liderança estava alinhada? Quais seriam os maiores desafios e as principais barreiras para a diversidade de gênero acontecer na construtora e como superá-los?
External validation of machine learning models including newborn metabolomic markers for postnatal gestational age estimation in East and South-East Asian infants
Authors: Hawken Steven , Murphy Malia S. Q. , Ducharme Robin , Bota A. Brianne , Wilson Lindsay A. , Cheng Wei , Tumulak Ma-Am Joy , Alcausin Maria Melanie Liberty , Reyes Ma Elouisa , Qiu Wenjuan , Potter Beth K. , Little Julian , Walker Mark , Zhang Lin , Padilla Carmencita , Chakraborty Pranesh , Wilson Kumanan
Published: June 2021

Background: Postnatal gestational age (GA) algorithms derived from newborn metabolic profiles have emerged as a novel method of acquiring population-level preterm birth estimates in low resource settings. To date, model development and validation have been carried out in North American settings. Validation outside of these settings is warranted.  

Methods: This was a retrospective database study using data from newborn screening programs in Canada, the Philippines and China. ELASTICNET machine learning models were developed to estimate GA in a cohort of infants from Canada using sex, birth weight and metabolomic markers from newborn heel prick blood samples. Final models were internally validated in an independent sample of Canadian infants, and externally validated in infant cohorts from the Philippines and China. 

Results: Cohorts included 39,666 infants from Canada, 82,909 from the Philippines and 4,448 from China.  For the full model including sex, birth weight and metabolomic markers, GA estimates were within ±5 days of ultrasound values in the Canadian internal validation (mean absolute error (MAE) 0.71, 95% CI: 0.71, 0.72), and within ±6 days of ultrasound GA in both the Filipino (0.90 (0.90, 0.91)) and Chinese cohorts (0.89 (0.86, 0.92)). Despite the decreased accuracy in external settings, our models incorporating metabolomic markers performed better than the baseline model, which relied on sex and birth weight alone. In preterm and growth-restricted infants, the accuracy of metabolomic models was markedly higher than the baseline model.

Conclusions: Accuracy of metabolic GA algorithms was attenuated when applied in external settings.  Models including metabolomic markers demonstrated higher accuracy than models using sex and birth weight alone. As innovators look to take this work to scale, further investigation of modeling and data normalization techniques will be needed to improve robustness and generalizability of metabolomic GA estimates in low resource settings, where this could have the most clinical utility
The main directions of psychological support for military personnel of special units of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation
Authors: Matveev Vladimir
Published: June 2021

The article is devoted to the problem of psychological support of military personnel of special units of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, which is relevant in the context of the new Regulation on the Psychological Service of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in 2021. The content of the main tasks and functions of the psychological service of the Armed Forces is presented. Special attention is paid to the description of psychological support and the specifics of its implementation in the system of personnel work and combat service in the Armed Forces. On the example of psychological support of military personnel of special units, the activities that are aimed at social and psychological adaptation of military personnel; didactic adaptation of military personnel; the possibility of professional self-determination; the opportunity to develop professional skills; correction and improvement of the work of the command staff are identified. The conditions for the implementation of psychological support for military personnel of special units are described.

As a result of the study, it is established that during the last decade, the problem of theoretical and methodological justification of psychological support continues to be relevant. At the present stage, "psychological support" is considered as a multi-faceted phenomenon, widely used in various aspects of life. The formation of the conceptual and categorical apparatus is also aimed at improving the legal culture while improving the regulatory legal framework for the departmental psychological practice of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.
Pandemic Preparation, Democracy, and the Morality of the Market
Authors: Silver David
Published: June 2021

This Commentary investigates ethical issues surrounding the US government’s attempt to partner with a private company to produce a new low-cost ventilator as part of its pandemic preparation plans. I argue that firms have distinct duties with respect to such public-private partnerships. In contrast to approaches that analyze these duties in terms of an “implicit morality” of the market, I analyze them in terms of democratically authorized plans regarding how to structure the market.
Family Research and Demographic Analysis (FReDA): Evolution, Framework, Objectives, and Design of “The German Family-Demographic Panel Study”
Authors: Schneider Norbert F. , Bujard Martin , Wolf Christof , Gummer Tobias , Hank Karsten , Neyer Franz J.
Published: June 2021

This article introduces the evolution, framework, objectives, and design of the new data infrastructure “FReDA – The German Family-Demographic Panel Study”, which has been funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) since 2020. FReDA is rooted in the Generation and Gender Survey (GGS) and the German Family Panel (pairfam). FReDA was initiated to facilitate research on family and demography by providing a comprehensive panel study allowing for international comparisons as well as dyadic analyses through a multi-actor design. The survey covers major fields of family research, such as fertility behaviour, reproductive health, work-family conflict, dyadic division of work, gender roles, intimate relations, separation and divorce, parenting and intergenerational relations, social inequalities, family attitudes, and well-being. FReDA interviews are conducted in a self-administered web-based (CAWI) or paper-based (PAPI) manner. The infrastructure consists of two different samples. First, the new FReDA-GGS survey started in early 2021, with a wave 1 study population of individuals aged 18 to 49 years and their partners. Second, the FReDA-pairfam survey will continue the 14-wave pairfam sample from 2022 onwards. The questionnaires of both samples will be harmonised as FReDA evolves. Data accessibility, organisation, and future perspectives of the data infrastructure are described and discussed in the paper’s conclusions.
Irina Adelgejm – rosyjska tłumaczka i literaturoznawczyni
Authors: Jastrzębska Katarzyna
Published: June 2021

Irina Adelgejm – Russian Translator and Literary Scholar
Not only works by Olga Tokarczuk but also translations of her books present one of the most current subjects raised by literary and translation scholars today. The main part of the article presents Irina Adelgejm ‒ a Polish teacher of Russian descent, literary scholar and translator of the highest number of works by Tokarczuk into Russian language. Scientific and literary criticism works as well as other expressions of views concerning the oeuvre of Tokarczuk (interviews, discussions) prove that her (Adelgejm) translational activity is not the effect of the Nobel prize, but they present the array of perennial academic interests focused on the phenomenon of contemporary Polish prose.
Analysis of Optical Emission Spectra during Nitrogen-Plasma Treatment to Control the Wettability of Polystyrene Surface
Authors: - Masruroh , Santjojo Dionysius J. D. H. , Taufiq Ahmad
Published: June 2021

In this work, we apply optical emission spectroscopy to investigate active plasma species to study that plasma nitrogen treatment affects polystyrene surfaces. Data concerning these active plasma species are crucial for exploring the polystyrene layer's functionality deposited on quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) surface. Wettability function in biosensors development is essential aspects for biomolecule immobilization. The surface of the polystyrene layer was modified by plasma nitrogen treatment. The process parameters affecting plasma species and characteristic, and hence the treatment results studied in this work were chamber pressure, flow rate, and DC bias. The plasma analysis was conducted by optical emission spectroscopy. The spectroscopy was utilized to predict the active species of plasma, the electron temperature Te and the electron density Ne. The dominant reactive species was N2+ which go through different plasma interactions and on the polystyrene surface depending on the DC bias voltage, the nitrogen- gas flow rate, and the chamber pressure. The plasma treatment results suggest that the ion bombardment was the dominant mechanism that changes the polystyrene's surface. The plasma behavior and surface interactions were found complex with the variation of the process parameter.

Keywords: Electron density, Electron temperature, OES, Nitrogen-plasma treatment, Wettability
Effect of optical magnification on the detection of the reduced scattering coefficient in the blue regime: theory and experiments
Authors: Shapira Channa , Yariv Inbar , Ankri Rinat , Duadi Hamootal , Fixler Dror
Published: June 2021

Imaging turbid media is range limited. In contrast, sensing the medium’s optical properties is possible in larger depths using the iterative multi-plane optical properties extraction technique. It analyzes the reconstructed reemitted light phase image. The root mean square of the phase image yields two graphs with opposite behaviors that intersect at µ’s,cp. These graphs enable the extraction of a certain range of the reduced scattering coefficient, µ’s. Here, we aim to extend the range of µ’s detection by optical magnification. We use a modified diffusion theory and show how µ’s,cp shifts with the varying magnification. The theoretical results were tested experimentally, showing that the technique can be adapted to different ranges of µ’s by changing the magnification.
Low-latency deep-reinforcement learning algorithm for ultrafast fiber lasers
Authors: Yan Qiuquan , Deng Qinghui , Zhang Jun , Zhu Ying , Yin Ke , Li Teng , Wu Dan , Jiang Tian
Published: June 2021

The application of machine learning to the field of ultrafast photonics is becoming more and more extensive. In this paper, for the automatic mode-locked operation in a saturable absorber-based ultrafast fiber laser (UFL), a deep-reinforcement learning algorithm with low latency is proposed and implemented. The algorithm contains two actor neural networks providing strategies to modify the intracavity lasing polarization state and two critic neural networks evaluating the effect of the actor networks. With this algorithm, a stable fundamental mode-locked (FML) state of the UFL is demonstrated. To guarantee its effectiveness and robustness, two experiments are put forward. As for effectiveness, one experiment verifies the performance of the trained network model by applying it to recover the mode-locked state with environmental vibrations, which mimics the condition that the UFL loses the mode-locked state quickly. As for robustness, the other experiment, at first, builds a database with UFL at different temperatures. It then trains the model and tests its performance. The results show that the average mode-locked recovery time of the trained network model is 1.948 s. As far as we know, it is 62.8% of the fastest average mode-locked recovery time in the existing work. At different temperatures, the trained network model can also recover the mode-locked state of the UFL in a short time. Remote algorithm training and automatic mode-locked control are proved in this work, laying the foundation for long-distance maintenance and centralized control of UFLs.
Assessing the short-run effects of lockdown policies on economic activity, with an application to the Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile
Authors: Fosco Constanza , Zurita Felipe
Published: June 2021

This paper develops a methodology for the assessment of the short-run effects of lockdown policies on economic activity. The methodology combines labor market data with simulation of an agent-based model. We apply our methodology to the Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile. We recover the model parameters from observed data, taking into account the recurring policy adjustments that characterized the study window. The model is used to build counterfactual scenarios. We estimate an 8 percent output loss in the first 5 months of the pandemic from the policy that was put in place, achieving a 56 percent reduction in the total number of infections. During this period, with an output loss to 10.5 percent of GDP, the infection rate would have decreased 92 percent, significantly delaying the spread of COVID and spike in infections. Our methodology applied to real data provided results that could be valuable in guiding policies in other lockdown situations in times of disaster, pandemics or social upheaval.
Syncopal Attack! - A Rare Complication after Whitacre Spinal Needle Insertion during Spinal Anaesthesia
Authors: Ninave Sanjot , Devalla Aditya Rameshbabu
Published: June 2021

Fine gauze spinal needles are known to decrease the incidence of postdural puncture headache (PDPH) in patients undergoing spinal anaesthesia. We present a rare case of syncopal attack in a patient posted for caesarean section. A patient undergoing elective surgery with inadequate anxiolysis can have a rare chance of a syncopal attack. Hence, high level of suspicion and management of a vasovagal attack is vital. The most common mechanism of syncope is reflex mediated, which can be ‘neurally’ or ‘vasovagally’, and it characteristically develops in the sitting or upright position but may occur in supine position also.1,2 It is characterized by a rapid onset, brief duration, and with a spontaneous recovery. Anxious and apprehensive patients prior to any surgical or anaesthetic procedure can lead to a vasovagal syncope, especially in young females.3 Medline search did not reveal any case report regarding the vasovagal syncope just after spinal needle insertion in young females undergoing spinal anaesthesia. Spinal anaesthesia is the most common anaesthesia performed for lower segment caesarean section (LSCS). A case of syncopal attack with sequence of events, during the insertion of a 25 G Whitacre spinal needle, in a parturient posted for emergency lower segment caesarean section, is discussed here.
Improving the Efficiency of GF-120 Baits in Attracting BactroceraZonata by Adding Ammonium Compounds with Particular Emphasis on pH level
Authors: Ghamin Nabil Mohamed
Published: June 2021

The peach fruit fly, Bactrocerazonata (Saunders) is a serious pest attacking a wide range of fruits. Field experiments were carried out, at Mansoura district, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt to evaluate the efficiency of di- ammonium phosphate, ammonium carbonate and ammonium acetate in enhancing GF-120, as insecticidal bait, for B. zonata based on their pH level under high and low population levels of B. zonata. Results showed that di-ammonium phosphate enhanced the attractiveness of GF-120 the most, followed by ammonium carbonate and ammonium acetate. Without adding any of the ammonium compounds to the GF-120 bait, the bait attracted the fewest B. zonata flies regardless of population levels. As the concentrations of ammonium compounds increased, the pH-level increased as well in the prepared GF-120 solutions, resulting in increased numbers of B. zonata flies captured. In contrast to males, females of B. zonata were more responsive to increase concentrations of the three ammonium compounds tested. Accordingly, all treatments attracted females more than males. The sex ratio (as number of attracted females per one male) was generally higher under low than high fly population levels.
Zasnova prototipa informacijskega sistema za klinično pot otročnice in novorojenca v zgodnjem poporodnem in neonatalnem obdobju
Authors: Višič Uroš , Žvanut Boštjan
Published: June 2021

Uvod: Klinična pot je metodologija, ki celotnemu zdravstvenemu timu omogoča racionalno in na primerih dobre prakse utemeljeno obravnavo, spremljanje opravljenega dela ter poenoteno in poenostavljeno dokumentiranje. Cilj je bil identificirati klinično pot za učinkovito obravnavo otročnice in razviti prototip informacijskega sistema, ki bi olajšal izvajanje omenjene poti.Metode: S sistematičnim pregledom literature je bila identificirana obstoječa klinična pot. Z metodo modeliranja in s strukturiranimi intervjuji šestih deležnic v fokusni skupini je bil oblikovan prototip informacijskega sistema. Evalviran je bil s prepoznavanjem vzorcev in ključnih tem iz kliničnega okolja.Rezultati: Kriteriji presojanja deležnic fokusne skupine pri  evalvaciji prototipa kažejo, da lahko prototip informacijskega sistema ustrezno podpre omenjeno klinično pot. Predlogi za izboljšavo, ki so jih podale deležnice fokusne skupine, so bili v razviti prototip vključeni naknadno.Diskusija in zaključek: Za obravnave znotraj sistema klinične poti v zgodnjem poporodnem obdobju so pomemben vezni člen prav medicinske sestre. Z uvedbo obravnav po sistemu klinične poti, ki je podprta s predlaganim informacijskim sistemom, se lahko bistveno izboljša način dokumentiranja obravnav pri izvajanju omenjene klinične poti. Z reduciranjem nepotrebnega dvojnega beleženja bi medicinske sestre pridobile več časa, ki bi ga lahko koristneje porabile.
Characterization of generalized Gamma-Lindley distribution using truncated moments of order statistics
Authors: Laribi Dorsaf , Masmoudi Afif , Boutouria Imen
Published: June 2021

Having only two parameters, the Gamma-Lindley distribution does not provide enough flexibility for analyzing different types of lifetime data. From this perspective, in order to further enhance its flexibility, we set forward in this paper a new class of distributions named Generalized Gamma-Lindley distribution with four parameters. Its construction is based on certain mixtures of Gamma and Lindley distributions. The truncated moment, as a characterization method, has drawn a little attention in the statistical literature over the great popularity of the classical methods. We attempt to prove that the Generalized Gamma-Lindley distribution is characterized by its truncated moment of the first order statistics. This method rests upon finding a survival function of a distribution, that is a solution of a first order differential equation. This characterization includes as special cases: Gamma, Lindley, Exponential, Gamma-Lindley and Weighted Lindley distributions. Finally, a simulation study is performed to help the reader check whether the available data follow the underlying distribution.
A finite graph is homeomorphic to the Reeb graph of a Morse–Bott function
Authors: Gelbukh Irina
Published: June 2021

We prove that a finite graph (allowing loops and multiple edges) is homeomorphic (isomorphic up to vertices of degree two) to the Reeb graph of a Morse–Bott function on a smooth closed n-manifold, for any dimension n ≥ 2. The manifold can be chosen orientable or non-orientable; we estimate the co-rank of its fundamental group (or the genus in the case of surfaces) from below in terms of the cycle rank of the graph. The function can be chosen with any number k ≥ 3 of critical values, and in a few special cases with k < 3. In the case of surfaces, the function can be chosen, except for a few special cases, as the height function associated with an immersion ℝ3.
An Earthquake for Pulcheria
Authors: Doerfler Maria
Published: June 2021

Natural disasters feature prominently among the topics that preoccupied late ancient homilists. Earthquakes, droughts, pandemics, and other catastrophes both inflicted untold suffering on their communities and raised pressing questions of interpretation: to whom ought Christians ascribe the origin of these scourges? what message or lessons did they convey? and how could their impact be reconciled with the existence of a loving and powerful deity, intimately invested in the well-being of Christian communities? To address these questions, homilists across the Greek- and Syriac-speaking world turned to a wide range of textual and cultural resources. Many of the resulting works nevertheless coalesce around one central theme: that of children and the child/parent dyad. Authors turned to the familiar tropes of parents protecting, punishing, or educating their offspring—and the latter’s ambivalent characterization as both vulnerable and intractable in ancient discourse—to craft “disaster mythologies,” narratives designed to make sense of disaster and thus effect desirable responses on the part of the speakers’ audiences. This article explores this topos in the writings of three late ancient orators: the fourth-century Syriac homilist Cyrillona; his Greek contemporary Gregory of Nyssa; and the sixth-century bishop of Antioch, Severus.
Bibliometric analysis of water footprint research in countries of former Yugoslavia
Authors: Ansorge Libor , Stejskalová Lada , Vološinová Dagmar
Published: June 2021

Sustainable development of water resources requires new tools and research in these fields of study. A systematic overview of water footprint research in countries of former Yugoslavia is presented through bibliometric analysis and publication review. The Scopus database was used as the data source. Among the countries of former Yugoslavia, only researchers from Slovenia, Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Hercegovina published papers focused on water footprint research before March 2021. Research on water footprint in these countries was found to be insufficient in scope and intensity. The contribution of authors from the countries of former Yugoslavia is small compared to research in other countries all over the world but is not insignificant. Almost 2/3 of articles have already been cited by other authors. Two main centers of water footprint research are at the University of Maribor in Slovenia and at the University of Novi Sad in Serbia, respectively. The research is focused on the so-called volumetric water footprint, while the LCA water footprint stands outside the interest of the scientific community in countries of former Yugoslavia.
One-dimensional sediment transport modelling with Engelund–Hansen and Ackers–White transport equations for the Lower Danube River
Authors: Kvočka Davor
Published: June 2021

Sediment transport can have a negative impact on riparian environments, as it can lead to the deterioration of ecological diversity and increase flood risks. Sediment transport modelling is thus a key tool in river basin management and the development of river training structures. In this study, we examined the appropriateness of 1D modelling for total sediment transport loads using the Engelund–Hansen and Ackers–White transport equations for the Lower Danube River. The study evaluated the effect of sediment grading on the accuracy of 1D model results, the appropriateness of 1D sediment transport modelling within technical or engineering projects, and the appropriateness of the Engelund–Hansen and Ackers–White equations for estimating sediment yield in the area of the Lower Danube River. The model results have been compared to field measurements, with the accuracy of the modelling results being evaluated with statistical tests. The obtained results show: (i) the sediment grading does not have a significant impact on the 1D modelling results, (ii) 1D sediment transport modelling gives sufficiently accurate results for practical engineering use (e.g. the estimation of dredging activities), and (iii) the Engelund–Hansen equation is generally better for sediment transport modelling in the Lower Danube River.
Performance Assessment Through Motion Literation to Assess The Motoric Skill of Junior High School Students Based on Laban Notation
Authors: Triana Dinny Devi , Yudha Rivo Panji
Published: June 2021

Motor skills integrate physical functions and coordination between the brain as a center for information and control through visual activities (reading) and tactile (writing) movement symbols. Symbols and motion codes are found in labanotation, so the ability to read symbols and write symbol patterns is called motion literacy. It can be done through continuous assessment continuously in an effort to diagnose their abilities. The results of the study describe a change in the condition of students’ motor skills after intervention through labanotation-based motion literacy work assessment, namely the change in conditions from the intervention condition (B) to the final baseline condition (A’) decreases the students’ adaptability. However, at the final baseline condition (A’), the motor ability score improved better than in the phase before baseline (A). The total average score obtained in this condition was 62.86%. Thus it can be concluded that the effect of performance appraisal through motion literacy provides benefits for improving brain function because structured and programmed motion exercises are useful in stimulating various learning centers in the brain. This also impacts on improving motor skills in students to undergo the learning process at a later stage.
Representation of the Meaning of Indung in Artworks
Authors: Maulina Rini , Sabana Setiawan , Damayanti Nuning Yanti , Muhtadin Teddi
Published: June 2021

Indung means mother in Sundanese. Indung in Sundanese culture is found in Paribasa, Babasan, Carita Pantun, Waditra (Sundanese traditional musical instrument), traditional ceremonies, and others. The word indung, which is found in almost all elements of Sundanese culture and manifests in Sundanese artifacts, has an invisible meaning. The meaning of indung in the perspective of Sundanese culture that exists in today’s society has not been explored. The meaning of indung from a cultural perspective needs to be searched for. There have not been found artworks with the theme of indung from a Sundanese cultural perspective, so it is necessary to explore representations in artworks. This study employs the Art-based Research method, in which an investigation is carried out on the data, and the results are represented in artworks. Through questionnaires, interviews, and literature studies, the meaning of indung is extracted and then tabulated to be classified and analyzed. The results of data processing showed that indung has many meanings, the result of converging data from the literature, questionnaire and interview the whole there are 17 meanings, among which the nurse, angel, house, huge, source of life, earth, embrace, harmony, the center of life, and love. The results of data processing are represented in artworks. Artworks made based on the meaning of indung are limited to three titles, namely Sumber Kehidupan (Source of Life), Merangkul (Embracing), and Rumah yang Hangat (Warm Home). The visual exploration contained in the three titles is made using stylized forms with a decorative style, using elements of motifs and colors from West Javanese batik. The media and techniques used are found in written batik. The results of the visualization of the meaning of indung of the three artworks that are created can be concluded that the meaning of indung cannot be symbolized singly.