bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive role of CCND1, FGFR1 gene amplifications and PIK3CA mutations for endocrine therapy of primary metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Iyevleva Aglaya , Kramchaninov Mikhail , Aleksakhina Svetlana , Sokolova Tatiana , Solovieva Tatiana , Kosmin Artem , Dmitriev Vadim , Petkau Vladislav , Moiseenko Vladimir , Imyanitov Evgeny
Published: October 2021

Background. More than half of breast carcinomas express estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER and PR) and remain estrogen-dependent. Endocrine therapy with inhibitors of the estrogen cascade allows long-term and effective control of the disease in a significant number of patients, however, some patients demonstrate primary, and the majority - secondary resistance to such treatment.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictive significance of the CCND1 and FGFR1 gene amplifications and PIK3CA mutations for endocrine therapy.

Materials and methods. The study included 138 women with ER-positive primary metastatic breast cancer (BC) who received hormone therapy with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) (n = 69), tamoxifen (n = 65), goserelin (n = 2), or a combination of goserelin and tamoxifen (n = 2) as the first line treatment. CCND1 and FGFR1 gene amplifications were tested by digital droplet PCR, while mutations in exons 7, 9, and 20 of the PIK3CA gene were determined using high-resolution melting analysis and allele-specific PCR. We analyzed the associations between the presence of the mentioned genetic lesions, progression-free-survival (PFS) and response to treatment.

Results. Amplifications of CCND1 and FGFR1 genes were identified in 24 (17.9%) and 28 (20.9%) of 134 successfully tested cases, respectively; 9 tumors were positive for both alterations. Amplifications were more prevalent in less differentiated tumors (p = 0.018). CCND1 amplification was associated with shorter PFS in patients receiving aromatase inhibitors (16.0 months vs. 32.4 months, HR = 3.16 [95% CI: 1.26-7.93], p = 0.014). FGFR1 status did not significantly affect PFS of AI-treated women, however, partial regress as a result of AI implementation was less frequent in FGFR1-amplified BC as compared to cases with normal FGFR1 copy number (p = 0.031).

The frequency of PIK3CA mutations was 40.2% (49/122). They were more often observed in smaller tumors (p = 0.034), in PR-positive carcinomas (p = 0.012), and in cases with more extensive metastatic involvement (p = 0.029). The presence of PIK3CA mutations did not affect the results of treatment with AI or tamoxifen.

Conclusion The presence of CCND1 and/or FGFR1 amplification is associated with worse results of AI therapy of metastatic breast cancer.
Features of expression of somatostatin receptors in gastric carcinomas depending on the proportion of the neuroendocrine component
Authors: Kit Oleg , Derizhanova Irina , Karnaukhov Nikolay , Novikova Inna , Trifanov Vladimir , Kaminsky Gennadiy
Published: October 2021

In 50 patients with gastric cancer, a neuroendocrine component was screened using immunohistochemical studies with antibodies to chromogenic and synaptophysin in the surgical material, as well as a somatostatin receptor status researcher (SSTR). The neuroendocrine component in various proportions was found in 62% of observers. In 2 neuroendocrine carcinomas, expression of type 2 SSTR was observed at the level of “2+”, and only one adeno-neuroendocrine carcinoma produced the same expression. In carcinomas with and without neuroendocrine component, the expression of various types of SSTR was detected in 61.8% of observers in both neuroendocrine and exocrine structures. In the group of highly differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, 100% of the observers detected the expression of at least one of the 5 types of somatostatin receptors, and in 95% - at the «3+» level. The data obtained do not allow making statistically significant conclusions about the dependence of the expression of SSTR on the presence of the neuroendocrine component, but with the prospect of further study not only in neuroendocrine tumors, but also in exocrine and mixed carcinomas.
Expression and content of VHL in kidney cancer tissue, relationship with clinical and morphological parameters of the disease, expression of transcriptional and growth factors
Authors: Spirina Lyudmila , Yurmazov Zahar , Usy`nin Evgenii , Kondakova Irina
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The molecular picture of the development of HIF overexpression against VHL deficiency background is a key event associated with the manifestation and progression of clear cell renal cell carcinoma. However, this indicator's significance for the development of the disease and the formation of a response to targeted therapy is not clear. The study aimed to study the relationship between the expression and content of VHL in kidney cancer tissue with clinical, morphological parameters, mRNA level NF-κB p65, NF-κB p50, HIF-1, HIF-2, VEGF, and CAIX.
Material and methods. The study included 39 patients with renal cell carcinoma. The disease's localized form (T1-2N0M0) was diagnosed in 20 patients; 19 patients had a disseminated process (T1-3N0-1M1). The study's material was normal, and tumor tissue was obtained during the surgical stage of treatment. VHL expression was determined by real-time PCR. The pVHL protein content was estimated using the Western Blotting method.
Results. As a result of the study, it was noted that an increase in the VHL expression, together with a decrease in its protein level, was associated with an increase in tumor size. The prevalence of the disease was accompanied by an increase in both mRNA and VHL content in cancers. There was a negative correlation between the level of VHL expression, the content of the corresponding protein, and a positive association with the expression of NF-κB p65. VHL content in cancers was associated with decreased expression of NF-κB p50, NF-κB p65, and VEGF.
Discussion. An increase in VHL expression in tumor tissue promoted the growth of mRNA of transcription factors, in particular NF-κB, which is accompanied by tumor spread. An increase in the VHL protein content led to the suppression of the mRNA level of transcriptional and growth factors, which is probably associated with their inactivation, including through proteasome cleavage, and is an important stage in oncogenesis.
Conclusion. The relationship between the expression and content of the VHL protein is of decisive importance in the development of the disease, the formation of distant metastases.
Znalezisko denara czeskiego króla Władysława I i inne niezwykłe monety spod Radziejowa na Kujawach / The find of the denier of King Vladislaus I of Bohemia and other unusual coins from the area of Radziejów in Kuyavia (Poland)
Authors: Paszkiewicz Borys
Published: October 2021

One denier of King Vladislaus I (1140–1158–1172), type Cach 614a, was found single near Stary Radziejów (Radziejów commune and district). This is the second find of the Bohemian coin dating to the 12th century in Poland, and the first coin of the mentioned king found there. The meaning of the obverse image of this coin is not clear, in any case, it represents the king with his sword bearer. On the reverse, there is a bust of Saint Wenceslas facing, surrounded by buildings. In the same area, the following coins were discovered: a Florentine picciolo of the fourteenth or fifteenth century (the first case of a medieval silver Florentine coin found in Poland) and the denier of King Casimir the Great, minted in Cracow.
Strieborné mince Žigmunda I. Luxemburského (1387–1437) a ich dopad na uhorské menové pomery / Silver coins of Sigismund I of Luxembourg (1387–1437) and their impact on the Hungarian monetary situation
Authors: Budaj Marek
Published: October 2021

During the rule of Sigismund I of Luxembourg, relatively stable gold coins (ducats) and several types of silver coins of different denominations were produced in Hungary. In the entire period, three basic types of deniers were struck in the following time spans: 1387–1389 (H 575), 1390–1427 (H 576) and 1427–1437 (H 578). The second type was very quickly affected by inflation, and possibly because of this process, the third type has replaced it. Besides deniers, also other small denominations have been produced, e.g. parvi struck in 1387–1427 with silver content of some 35.3 %. The ducats struck in 1427–1430 represent other small coins of low quality (18.1 % of silver). After the moment when their production had stopped, Sigismund I started to produce the coins of the lowest quality – quartings – in 1430–1437. Their content of silver was 12.5 % only. The quartings were also affected by inflation soon, which was reflected by their rate in relation to the ducats.
Hodnocení Josefa Smolíka z roku 1915 / Characteristic of Josef Smolík dating to 1915
Authors: Ryant Jiří
Published: October 2021

The personality of Josef Smolík (1832–1915) – a mathematician, archaeologist and numismatist – was analysed several times in the past. The first summarizing study on his legacy was published shortly after his death by the corresponding member of the Bohemian Academy of Sciences (Česká akademie pro vědy, slovesnost a umění) Prof Zdeněk Nejedlý in Almanach of this institution printed in 1916. This obituary was written and sent to the editor even at the end of 1915. In a knowledgeable form, Smolík was characterized there as a scholar who – from mathematics and physics via archeology – came to his most essential interest – numismatics.
Okrojené falsum pražského groše Ferdinanda I. a problematika okrajování pražských grošů / Clipped forgery of the Prague grossus of Ferdinand I and problems with clipping of the Prague gross
Authors: Richtera Lukáš , Březina Matěj
Published: October 2021

A clipped forgery of the Prague grossus of Ferdinand I of Habsburg is described in the article. Its fabric is relatively good, the massive clipping obviously reminds this sort of activity typical for territories outside the Kingdom of Bohemia, where mainly the Prague grossi of John I of Luxemburg or Charles IV were handled like this, but it is not typical for the period when the Prague grossi were clipped and used as a mean of payment again. Content of the forged flan and form of its plating were found out via the EDXRF and EDS/SEM analyses. In spite of existing hypotheses for provenance and origin of the discussed forgery – because of absence of any archaeological context – it is impossible to express fully responsible and clear conclusions. The article also summarizes recently published studies focused on problems with the clipped Prague grossi.
Spitzenleistung im Schruppen
Authors: Timons Erich
Published: October 2021

Ein Werkzeugbaubetrieb setzt auf Innovationsbereitschaft und Flexibilität – auch bei der Auswahl der Arbeitsmittel. Seitdem er ein Wettbewerbsprodukt durch die Hochvorschubfräser der „Logiq 4 Feed“-Familie ersetzt hat, erzielt er hohe Zeitspanvolumen, zuverlässige Bearbeitungen und Kostenvorteile.
Akustische Qualitätskontrolle leicht gemacht
Authors: Reiff Ellen-Christine , Beck Martin , Schmälzle Frank
Published: October 2021

Die Laservibrometrie wird heute für die berührungslose Akustik- und Schwingungsanalyse bei ganz unterschiedlichen Objekten eingesetzt – von kompletten Autokarosserien, Flugzeugteilen oder Motoren bis hin zu Mikrosystemen oder Festplattenbauteilen.
A Microstrip Low-Pass Filter Design Using a Modified Radial Resonator in the Application of Aircraft Distance Measurement Equipment
Authors: Radmanesh Hamid
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the application of microstrip technology is investigated in low-pass filters. A cascade microstrip low-pass filter with a sharp frequency response and a good cut-off bandwidth is presented using a modified radial resonator. The advantages of this proposed filter include minor losses in the transit band as well as the desired return. This filter design shows consistency when compared with the results of simulation and model performance. A comparison between the parameter values of this filter and previous structures indicates that it is desirable. The proposed filter can be used in modern communication systems such as aircraft distance measurement equipment (DME) antenna.
Rabies eradication measures in wildlife in the Republic of Moldova
Authors:   State Agrarian University, SIRBU Maxim , STARCIUC Nicolae ,   State Agrarian University
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Rabies is one of the most dangerous zoonoses in the world with a lethality rate around 100% of infected animals. The main factor in rabies’ control is the prophylactic immunization of domestic and wild carnivores. Material and methods. As a research material for this manuscript, a number of rabies cases in wildlife over the last 5 years was studied, as well as some data from the national program regarding the vaccination of wildlife animals in the Republic of Moldova. Results. The anual incidence of rabies in wildlife was determined to range between 12 to 25% of the total number of rabies cases at national level. Due to vaccination by combining some methods (aerial and manual), the incidence of positive cases of rabies in wildlife has decreased by 48% in the last 5 years. Conclusions. The use of the mixed vaccination method of wildlife animals (manual and the distribution of baits by plane) contributed significantly to reducing the incidence of rabies in wildlife.
Análisis de las características del clúster ganadero en Sinaloa, México
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Occidente, Gálvez Bon Luz Cecilia , Sansores Guerrero Edgar Alfonso ,   Universidad de Quintana Roo
Published: October 2021

El presente trabajo de investigación tiene como objetivo principal analizar las características del clúster ganadero de Sinaloa, México, creado en 2014, desde la perspectiva de la Economía Industrial y organizacional. Se utilizó el tipo de investigación analítico, de corte transversal y con un enfoque cuantitativo. Para obtener datos se aplicó un cuestionario a 50 productores de la Zona Norte-Centro del Estado, durante el período comprendido de 2011 a 2016. Los resultados obtenidos indican que tiene un nivel medio de desarrollo en sus características de innovación, integración productiva, cooperación, espacio geográfico e infraestructura el clúster se caracteriza por un desarrollo medio en cada una de las dimensiones. Se concluye la integración productiva es media, se requiere fortalecer la cooperación, incorporar mayor innovación, mejorar la infraestructura instalada y ampliar su alcance geográfico.
HIDRAULINIŲ SMŪGIŲ ANALIZĖ SLĖGINIUOSE NUOTEKŲ TINKLUOSE
Authors: Nevdach Aleksandr , Rimeika Mindaugas
Published: October 2021

Šiame straipsnyje nagrinėjamas hidraulinio smūgio susidarymas, jo atsiradimo priežastys, apžvelgiami hidraulinių smūgių sumažinimo būdai. Straipsnyje pateikiami hidraulinio smūgio teoriniai pagrindai ir skaičiavimo metodika. Hidrauliniam smūgiui analizuoti ir apsaugos priemonėms parinkti sudaromas nuotekų slėginės linijos hidraulinis modelis. Tyrimai atliekami veikiančiuose nuotekų slėginiuose tinkluose. Hidraulinio smūgio nuotekų tinkluose prevencijai naudojamos slėgio bangos slopinimo priemonės, padedančios išvengti avarijų tinkle ir prailginančios tinklų eksploatavimo trukmę.
BIRIŲJŲ TRĄŠŲ GAVIMAS NAUDOJANT ĮVAIRIAS ORGANINĖS KILMĖS ATLIEKAS
Authors: Ragauskaitė Dovilė , Šlinkšienė Rasa
Published: October 2021

Tarptautinės kavos organizacijos duomenimis, 2020 m. pasaulyje buvo suvartota daugiau negu 107 kg kavos pupelių. Daugiau-sia kavos suvartojama Europoje. Pradinio kavos apdorojimo ir gėrimo ruošimo metu susidaro daug įvairių atliekų: kavos uogų minkštimas, sidabrinė odelė, kavos tirščiai. Šiose atliekose yra daug įvairių cheminių elementų, tačiau jos vis dar nėra maksima-liai naudojamos pramonėje antriniams produktams gauti. Šiame darbe ištirtos ir įvertintos kavos tirščių, susidarančių tiek viešojo maitinimo įstaigose, tiek buityje, naudojimo granuliuotų trąšų gamyboje galimybės. Mokslinių tyrimų metu gauti rezultatai rodo, jog kavos tirščiuose yra ne tik pagrindinių augalų maisto medžiagų: azoto, fosforo bei kalio, tačiau juose aptinkama ir antrinių (kalcio, magnio, sieros) ir mikroelementų pėdsakų. Šio tyrimo metu iš kavinių surinkti kavos tirščiai buvo granuliuojami labora-toriniu būgniniu granuliatoriumi-džiovykla, papildomai iš anksto jų neapdorojus, t. y. nedžiovinus. Tokiu būdu siekiama išveng-ti papildomų energinių sąnaudų ir supaprastinti sandėliavimo sąlygas. Granulėms gauti buvo naudojami įvairios drėkinamosios-rišamosios medžiagos (vanduo, ortofosforo rūgštis ir kt.). Įvertinant maisto medžiagų poreikį augaluose, granuliuotoms trąšoms keliamus reikalavimus ir vien tik kavos tirščių granuliavimo rezultatus, buvo parinkti ir į granuliuoti ruošiamą žaliavų mišinį de-dami kitų organinės kilmės medžiagų priedai. Tyrimo metu nustatytos gauto granuliuoto produkto fizikinės savybės: granulio-metrinė mišinio sudėtis, piltinis tankis, drėgmės kiekis, prekinės frakcijos granulių stipris bei 10 % vandeninio tirpalo pH vertės.
MAŽO NAŠUMO ĮRENGINIŲ EFEKTYVUMO ŠALINTI IŠ NUOTEKŲ AZOTO JUNGINIUS TYRIMAS
Authors: Šaltenis Paulius , Mažeikienė Aušra
Published: October 2021

Šiuo metu apie 24 % Lietuvos gyventojų nuotekas tvarko individualiai, iš jų 74 % nuotekas tiesiog kaupia specialiose surinkimo duobėse. Per pastaruosius penkerius metus, atlikęs patikrinimus, Aplinkos apsaugos departamentas nustatė apie 30 % netinkamo individualaus nuotekų tvarkymo atvejų. Jei dėl aplinkosauginių ar ekonominių priežasčių netikslinga nuotekų tvarkyti centralizuotai, jos gali būti tvarkomos individualiai. Tam reikalingi efektyvūs nuotekų valymo įrenginiai, kuriais išvalytos nuotekos atitiktų LR nuotekų tvarkymo reglamento reikalavimus. Šiame straipsnyje analizuojamas dviejų mažo našumo (0,9 m3/d.) Lietuvoje gaminamų įrenginių efektyvumas šalinti iš nuotekų azoto junginius. Pastebėta, kad mažo našumo įrenginiais išvalytose nuotekose likdavo nedidelė amonio azoto arba nitratų azoto koncentracija, jų koncentracija priklauso nuo pradinės nevalytų nuotekų Kjeldalio azoto koncentracijos. Abu tirtieji įrenginiai azoto junginius iš nuotekų šalino 75–80 % efektyvumu, bendrojo azoto likutinė koncentracija (<25 mg/l) išvalytose nuotekose atitiko reglamento reikalavimus.
Bank maturity, income diversification, and bank stability
Authors: Dziembała Małgorzata , Talar Sylwia
Published: October 2021

The aim of the paper is to answer the overriding question what is the role of ICT in implementation of smart specialization (SS) in EU regions (NUTS2 level)? This role can be dual and ICT is considered in this study both as an invention which has led to the emergence of new sector, and from the perspective of general purpose technology (GPT) properties where ICT plays the role of input in innovation process. There are used following methods and techniques: desk research, descriptive statistical analysis, the correlation measure and Hellwig’s method of taxonomic analysis. The main findings indicate that in practice SS in ICT is not focused on development ICT as invention and is not based on readiness to usage of ICT as GPT. However, the abilities of regions to take advantage of ICT as a driver of innovation (as GPT) are materially related to specialization in the ICT sector (development ICT as invention). The findings bring some improvements by evidence-based policy making. The research contribute to the better understanding of the innovation determinants during digital transformation and especially the base of specialization in ICT as GPT under SS assumptions.
Bank maturity, income diversification, and bank stability
Authors: Tariq Waqas , Usman Muhammad , Tariq Adeel , Rashid Robina , Yin Junming , Memon Mumtaz Ali , Ashfaq Muhammad
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of bank life cycle or bank maturity on income diversification (ID) and stability. In addition, this research investigates the ID relationship with bank stability. Drawing on the dynamic resource-based view and modern portfolio theory, this research examines the influence of a paramount internal factor i.e. bank life cycle or bank maturity on income diversification (ID) and stability consequence. Data were collected from the Pakistani’s commercial banks’ financial statements over the period 2005 to 2019. This research relied on the fixed effect and generalized method of moments (GMM) model to empirically test the proposed relationships. Core findings of the research reveal that bank maturity leads to enhanced ID and ID strongly influences the bank stability consequence, moreover, research findings are robust to use different measures of bank stability and GMM estimation techniques. To the authors’ best knowledge, this research is the first to report specific evidence about bank maturity as an internal driver of income diversification and stability and advances the literature seeking to understand the determinants of ID. This research also shows managers to recognize the importance of internal drivers to diversify effectively into non-interest income, and how such an effective ID translates into stability consequence.
PeV Photon and Neutrino Flares from Galactic Gamma-Ray Binaries
Authors: Bykov A. M. , Petrov A. E. , Kalyashova M. E. , Troitsky S. V.
Published: October 2021

The high-energy radiation from short period binaries containing a massive star with a compact relativistic companion was detected from radio to TeV γ-rays. We show here that PeV regime protons can be efficiently accelerated in the regions of collision of relativistic outflows of a compact object with stellar winds in these systems. The accelerated proton spectra in the presented Monte Carlo model have an upturn in the PeV regime and can provide very hard spectra of sub-PeV photons and neutrinos by photomeson processes in the stellar radiation field. The recent report of a possible sub-PeV γ-ray flare in coincidence with a high-energy neutrino can be understood in the frame of this model. The γ-ray binaries may contribute substantially to the Galactic component of the detected high-energy neutrino flux.
On the Formation of an Eccentric Nuclear Disk following the Gravitational Recoil Kick of a Supermassive Black Hole
Authors: Akiba Tatsuya , Madigan Ann-Marie
Published: October 2021

The anisotropic emission of gravitational waves during the merger of two supermassive black holes can result in a recoil kick of the merged remnant. We show here that eccentric nuclear disks—stellar disks of eccentric, apse-aligned orbits—can directly form as a result. An initially circular disk of stars will align orthogonal to the black hole kick direction with a distinctive “tick-mark” eccentricity distribution and a spiral pattern in mean anomaly.
Notes on two rare species of brachyuran crabs (families Matutidae and Parthenopidae) from Indonesian waters with new distribution records
Authors: Hanim Nisfa , Suman Ali , Kembaren Duranta Diandria , Perwitasari Dyah , Wardiatno Yusli , Farajallah Achmad
Published: October 2021

This research aimed to report two species of Brachyuran crabs that were found rarely from Indonesian waters. The latest report was more than one hundred years ago, and the study from Indonesia before was not so clear, both information about specimens and location details. We conducted our study in Southern Aru Island and Malacca Strait using trawl during the cruise research which was held by the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Our findings were Izanami reticulata, New Record (family Matutidae) from Southern Aru Island, and Cryptopodia fornicata (family Parthenopidae) from Malacca Strait. The two locations are located close to the location where the species was found in previous studies, namely the Arafura Sea which is adjacent to the Aru Islands, and the Malacca Strait which is adjacent to Borneo. We suspect that the presence of these two species in western and eastern Indonesia was due to their distribution during the pelagic larval stage through the sea current. This article also provided the specific habitat for both species which has not been stated. In addition, this article will contribute to strengthening Indonesia as a mega biodiversity country with initiate compiling the database of Brachyura in Indonesian waters.
The rediscovery of Carya poilanei (Juglandaceae) after 80 years reveals a new record from China
Authors: Zhang Wei-Ping , Bai Wei-Ning , Zhang Da-Yong
Published: October 2021

Despite having been first published in 1941, Carya poilanei (Chev.) Leroy is only known from two original collections in Vietnam and Laos; however, it has not been recollected since then and long suspected to be extinct by repeated deforestation events. Here, we report the rediscovery, and meanwhile the first new record in China, of this extremely rare gigantic hickory species at Yunnan province after 80 years. Three small patchy subpopulations were found with a total of about 50 adult trees have diameter at breast height (DBH) larger than 60 cm, together with some seedlings and saplings, but the fruit set was low. Based on multiple fresh materials, we present a revised morphological description of C. poilanei, and an updated distribution map for the species. In addition, we also provided a key for the hickories in China. Lastly, we suggest C. poilanei should be listed as Critically Endangered (CR) or Endangered (EN) species according to the latest IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.
The role of serum levels of anti-phospholipase A2 receptor antibodies in the diagnosis of primary membranous nephropathy.
Authors: Ronchev Yovko , Terzieva Dora , Tilkiyan Eduard
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Primary membranous nephropathy (PMN) is one of the most common causes of nephrotic syndrome in adults. The disease process is probably initiated by the binding of circulating autoantibodies to target podocyte antigens. In 2009, Beck et al. found that phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R1) was expressed on human podocytes in patients with PMN. Recent evidence suggests that PLA2R1 autoantibodies play an important role in the diagnosis of PMN.

Aim: The aim of the present study was to compare the serum levels of anti-PLA2R1 in patients with PMN, second MN (SMN), other nephropathies (ON), and healthy controls (HC).

Materials and methods: The study included 52 patients with PMN, 12 patients with SMN, 49 patients with ON, and 50 healthy controls. The serum concentration of anti-PLA2R1 was determined with ELISA kit (Anti-PLA2R ELISA, IgG, EUROIMMUN, Lübeck, Germany) using MR-96A microplate Reader (MINDRAY). Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS v.22.0.

Results: There was significant difference in the serum anti-PLA2R1 concentrations between patient groups and HC (p<0.0001). Compared to HC, the median anti-PLA2R1 level in the PMN group was significantly higher (4.8 RU/ml vs. 34.9 RU/ml, p=0.001), in the ON group it was lower (2.1 RU/ml, p=0.002) and did not differ in patients with SMN (2.9 RU/ml, p=0.193). The anti-PLA2R1 serum levels were significantly higher in the PMN group than in the SMN (p=0.015) and ON (p<0.001) groups.

Conclusions: Our results showed that anti-PLA2R1 is significantly increased in patients with PMN. We can conclude that the anti-PLA2R1 serum concentration may be used as a beneficial biomarker for distinguishing PMN from other membranous nephropathies.
Three new species and two new records of the genus Phaenocarpa Foerster (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae) from South Korea
Authors: Sohn Ju-Hyeong , van Achterberg Cornelis , Lee Gyeonghyeon , Kim Hyojoong
Published: October 2021

The species of the genus Phaenocarpa Foerster, 1863 (Braconidae: Alysiinae) from South Korea are revised, and the genus is recorded for the first time from South Korea. Three species, Phaenocarpa artotemporalissp. nov., P. brachyurasp. nov. and P. lobatasp. nov., are new to Science, and two species, P. masha Belokobylskij, 1998 and P. fidelis Fischer, 1970, are newly recognized in South Korea. They are described and illustrated herein with a provision of the identification key to the Korean species. In addition, the DNA barcode region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) has been analyzed for the six species including P. ruficeps for genetic comparison.
Stars in subtropical Japan: a new gregarious Meteorus species (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Euphorinae) constructs enigmatic star-shaped pendulous communal cocoons
Authors: Fujie Shunpei , Shimizu So , Tone Koichi , Matsuo Kazunori , Maeto Kaoru
Published: October 2021

A new gregarious braconid parasitoid wasp of Euphorinae, Meteorus stellatus Fujie, Shimizu & Maeto sp. nov., is described from the Ryukyu Islands in Japan, based on an integrative taxonomic framework. The phylogenetic position of the new species within the Meteorini was analyzed based on DNA fragments of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase 1 (CO1) and the nuclear 28S rDNA genes. The new species was recovered as a member of the versicolor complex of the versicolor + rubens subclade within the pulchricornis clade. The new species is a gregarious parasitoid of two Macroglossum species (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) and constructs single or several unique star-shaped cocoon masses separately suspended by very long threads. The evolution of gregariousness and spherical cocoon masses is discussed.
Deducing how tropical rhyssines (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) mate from body measurements
Authors: Keronen Sanna , Sääksjärvi Ilari E. , Hopkins Tapani
Published: October 2021

The biology of many Darwin wasp (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) species is poorly known. Existing museum specimens can potentially be used to get information on e.g. how species live, what they eat, and what their life cycle is. One example of this is a 1991 study by Eggleton in which he measured some rhyssine (Ichneumonidae: Rhyssinae) species, and used the results to deduce how the species likely mate. We extend this work by measuring five tropical species. We found no evidence that the males of our species scramble for females before the females emerge, which matches what was hypothesised by Eggleton. Further measurements of more species would provide information on how other species mate, and field observations of mating rhyssines would help confirm that Eggleton’s method for deducing rhyssine mating strategies gives true results.
The giant pill-millipede genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 from Thailand, with a redescription of Z. siamensis Hirst, 1907 and descriptions of three new species (Diplopoda, Sphaerotheriida, Zephroniidae)
Authors: Srisonchai Ruttapon , Sutcharit Chirasak , Likhitrakarn Natdanai
Published: October 2021

Material of the giant pill-millipede genus Zephronia Gray, 1832 recently collected from Thailand contains three new species: Zephronia enghoffisp. nov., Zephronia golovatchisp. nov., and Zephronia panhaisp. nov. The first Zephronia species recorded for Thailand, Z. siamensis Hirst, 1907, is also redescribed based on new specimens collected both from the type locality in Chonburi Province and from neighboring areas. Morphological characters of all new species, Z. phrain Likhitrakarn & Golovatch, 2021, and Z. siamensis are illustrated, and a distribution map of the confirmed Zephronia species occurring in Thailand is also provided.
Design and optimization of grid Integrated hybrid on-site energy generation system for rural area in AJK-Pakistan using HOMER software
Authors: Tahir Muti Ur Rehman ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10250, AJK, Pakistan, Amin Adil , Baig Ateeq Ahmed , Manzoor Sajjad , Haq Anwar ul , Asgha Muhammad Awais , Khawaja Wahab Ali Gulzar ,   Mirpur Institute of Technology (MIT), Jarikas Campus, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10250, AJK, Pakistan,   Department of Computer System Engineering, Mirpur University of Science & Technology, (MUST), Mirpur 10250, AJK, Pakistan
Published: October 2021

Power sector plays a crucial role in the development of a country. Rise in population and industrial expansion in developing countries are reason to burdenize the central grid. Pakistan is a country in its developing stages. About 58% of its total energy generation is contributed by fossil fuel based conventional plants for which the fuel costs plenteous amount. In these circumstances it is indispensable to exploit naturally available renewable resources for electricity generation. This study proposes a hybrid hydro-kinetic/Photovoltaic/Biomass system integrated with grid to serve electricity in a residential area of district Kotli in AJK Pakistan. By evaluating available resources and total load demand data of residential consumers, a system design is modelled in HOMER to get techno-economic and optimal design analysis of the purposed system. Using several configurations and combinations of available energy generation systems and then by comparing their results, the most optimum system design is achieved in terms of initial cost, operating cost, cost per unit and net present cost of the system. To further refine the results, the effect of variations of different parameters like load demand, water flow speed and solar irradiance on system is investigated by performing sensitivity analysis on the system. Final results demonstrate that the purposed system is cost-effective and efficient to meet the load demand.
Localized modes in time-fractional modified coupled Korteweg-de Vries equation with singular and non-singular kernels
Authors: Khan Khalid ,   Department of Mathematics, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Dir (L), Pakistan, Ali Amir , Sen Manuel De la , Irfan Muhammad ,   Department of Electricity and Electronics, Institute of Research and Development of Processes Faculty of Science and Technology, University of the Basque Country Campus of Leioa, Leioa 48940, Spain,   Department of Physics, University of Malakand, Chakdara, Dir (L), Pakistan
Published: October 2021

In this article, the modified coupled Korteweg-de Vries equation with Caputo and Caputo-Fabrizio time-fractional derivatives are considered. The system is studied by applying the modified double Laplace transform decomposition method which is a very effective tool for solving nonlinear coupled systems. The proposed method is a composition of the double Laplace and decomposition method. The results of the problems are obtained in the form of a series solution for $ 0 < \alpha\leq 1 $, which is approaching to the exact solutions when $ \alpha = 1 $. The precision and effectiveness of the considered method on the proposed model are confirmed by illustrated with examples. It is observed that the proposed model describes the nonlinear evolution of the waves suffered by the weak dispersion effects. It is also observed that the coupled system forms the wave solution which reveals the evolution of the shock waves because of the steeping effect to temporal evolutions. The error analysis is performed, which is comparatively very small between the exact and approximate solutions, which signifies the importance of the proposed method.
The Future of LGBT Politics
Authors: Drenner Karla L.
Published: October 2021

This chapter summarizes the role of the U.S. Supreme Court in national policymaking. In the United States there exists a nationally shared set of beliefs, values, and customs, or cultural universals. However, these shared attributes vary according to place and political affiliation. Extending the right to marry to same-sex couples through judicial means precipitated a backlash in which religious groups and individuals turned to legislative solutions to contest the court's decision and their obligation to recognize marriage equality. As the final arbiter of law in the United States, the nine unelected justices of the U.S. Supreme Court play a significant role in policymaking, and their attitudes and decisions regarding policy are tied to the political selection of justices. In the future, decision making from the court to further extend the rights of LGBT citizens may be directly tied to the increasingly partisan selection process for justices.
Homophobic Conduct as Normative Masculinity Test
Authors: Rinaldi Cirus
Published: October 2021

Homophobic violence can be considered as an expressive act. Violent behavior can be considered as anti-homosexual when victims are chosen because they are considered or perceived as homosexual. Following this reasoning, hate crimes as homophobic crimes have a communicative value, since they represent a range of “masculinization” practices within the processes of gender socialization, both in conventional and illegitimate social worlds. Every homophobic act aims to intimidate not just the victim, but the whole group associated with the, whether concretely or merely in the perception of the perpetrator. This chapter will take into account the main research on victimization from an international perspective; it will highlight how both the gender of the perpetrator and the cultural constructions of masculinity(ies), in a heterosexist and hegemonic system, seem to play a fundamental role in producing homophobic and anti-homosexual behaviour.
Developing LGBTQ Competence in Faculty
Authors: Vaccaro Annemarie , Dooley Jr. Howard L. , Adams Jessica A.
Published: October 2021

Contemporary college campuses can be hostile and unwelcoming places for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) faculty, staff, and students. This chapter examines through the lens of structuration theory the implementation of an LGBTQ professional development series for faculty as an impetus to change such unwelcoming environments. The LGBTQ professional development series was designed to foster individual and organizational change by first increasing the LGBTQ cultural competency of faculty members, and second by providing these agents encouragement and tools to change unwelcoming structures within themselves, their organization, and their disciplinary influence.
Jessica's Journey
Authors: Brand Susan Trostle , Brand Jessica Danielle
Published: October 2021

This personal story chapter describes the journey undertaken by a transgender youth as she discovers her true gender identity. Told by a mother and daughter team, each individual shares her feelings and experiences from the time J is a toddler until the present, including preschool experiences, travel abroad anecdotes, school and social encounters, and family reactions and adjustments to J's transition and ongoing transformation. The chapter addresses the social, emotional, physical, academic, and economic factors that many transgender youth and adults face on a daily basis and suggests ways that schools and society can ease this complex process for individuals who are LGBTQ+.
Voicing the Voiceless
Authors: Natarajan Tamilselvi
Published: October 2021

Cinema always represented the society, and any visual representation about ‘not so commonly discussed' topics becomes crucial as they are the image blocks for the future generation. The power of cinema is high among Tamil audience, which is evident from the emergence of two great political leaders who are byproducts of it. It is essential to understand how sexual minorities are represented in a culture-specific society. In India, representation of the third gender was insensitive, and Tamil cinema is no exception. These representations cannot be ignored as ‘just in screen' as screen represents reality. Nevertheless, few fair images are making a significant impact on the audience about transgender. Studying representations about sexual minorities in Tamil cinema is important in today's context, where young minds are exposed to digital platforms. This chapter explains the description of the transgender community in Tamil cinema and analyses its impact on society.
LGBTQ+ Population in Asia Pacific (Malaysia)
Authors: Kon Gianina Ginnie , Ming Anne Chong Yuk
Published: October 2021

The topic of LGBTQ in Malaysia was chosen as this issue is relatively new (as compared to Western society) and perhaps not as open due to the different religious, cultural, and familial taboo surrounding it. Individuals who face a crisis in their sexuality, hence, face insurmountable challenges and conflicts and may need to seek help from the counselling/helping professionals. This chapter that focuses on LGBTQ+ population in general, and particularly in Malaysia, it is hoped that it would facilitate the relationship between the counsellor with a member of this particular population.
Automation and Augmentation
Authors: Ebben Maureen
Published: October 2021

This chapter examines the nature of work where human labor is a complement to machines and considers its import for social wellbeing. While dominant portrayals about the effects of work automation are often characterized by discourses of fear and hype, these have limited utility. The chapter proposes moving beyond fear and hype to consider the ways in which automation alters the organization of work and the human role. It asserts that, although essential, the human role in automation is often obscured. Drawing on the concepts of “fauxtomation,” “heteromation,” and human infrastructures, the chapter makes visible hidden forms of human labor in automated work and maintains that a positive strategy for social well-being is the recognition and revaluation of human work in automated processes.
Automation of Marketing Processes and the Discovery of Knowledge for CRM
Authors: Janakova Milena
Published: October 2021

The general perspective of the chapter is focused on discovering marketing knowledge based on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems. The question is: “How to do automate processes in the implemented CRM system to discover the knowledge that is useful for marketing?” It is a natural question because the stored data creates a large volume and it is difficult to set up a marketing with hands. This chapter focuses on finding the necessary product specifications to automate the marketing needs this CRM system must offer to be optimal in today's modern global society. The existing controversy is between IT for everyday use, real IT capabilities, human skills, and knowledge to support more complex implemented processes. Emphasis is placed on automation and intelligence. The analysis shows that CRM systems are interested in managing customer relationships in the form of a single agent or process to perform the necessary actions using implemented algorithms that utilize various intelligence, statistical methods, multi-criteria decision-making, and automated learning predictions.
Beyond RoboDebt
Authors: D'Rosario Michael , D'Rosario Carlene
Published: October 2021

Automated decision support systems with high stake decision processes are frequently controversial. The Online Compliance Intervention (herewith “OCI” or “RoboDebt”) is a system of compliance implemented with the intention to facilitate automatic issuance of statutory debt notices to individuals, taking a receipt of welfare payments and exceeding their entitlement. The system appears to employ rudimentary data scraping and expert systems to determine whether notices should be validly issued. However, many individuals that take receipt of debt notices assert that they were issued in error. The commentary on the system has resulted in a lot of conflation of the system with other system types and caused many to question the role of decision of support systems in public administration given the potentially deleterious impacts of such systems for the most vulnerable. The authors employ a taxonomy of Robotic Process Automation (RPA) issues, to review the OCI and RPA more generally. This paper identifies potential problems of bias, inconsistency, procedural fairness, and overall systematic error. This research also considers a series of RoboDebt specific issues regarding contractor arrangements and the potential impact of the system for Australia's Indigenous population. The authors offer a set of recommendations based on the observed challenges, emphasizing the importance of moderation, independent algorithmic audits, and ongoing reviews. Most notably, this paper emphasizes the need for greater transparency and a broadening of criteria to determine vulnerability that encompasses, temporal, geographic, and technological considerations.
Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Autonomous Technologies in Mining Industry
Authors: Hyder Zeshan , Siau Keng , Nah Fiona
Published: October 2021

The implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and autonomous technologies in the mining industry started about a decade ago with autonomous trucks. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous technologies provide many economic benefits for the mining industry through cost reduction, efficiency, and improving productivity, reducing exposure of workers to hazardous conditions, continuous production, and improved safety. However, the implementation of these technologies has faced economic, financial, technological, workforce, and social challenges. This article discusses the current status of AI, machine learning, and autonomous technologies implementation in the mining industry and highlights potential areas of future application. The article presents the results of interviews with some of the stakeholders in the industry and what their perceptions are about the threats, challenges, benefits, and potential impacts of these advanced technologies. The article also presents their views on the future of these technologies and what are some of the steps needed for successful implementation of these technologies in this sector.
Internet of Things Testing Framework, Automation, Challenges, Solutions and Practices
Authors: Karthick G. S.  , Pankajavalli P. B.
Published: October 2021

The internet of things (IoT) is aimed at modifying the life of people by adopting the possible computing techniques to the physical world, and thus transforming the computing environment from centralized form to decentralized form. Most of the smart devices receive the data from other smart devices over the network and perform actions based on their implemented programs. Thus, testing becomes an intensive process in the IoT that will require some normalization too. The composite architecture of IoT systems and their distinctive characteristics require different variants of testing to be done on the components of IoT systems. This chapter will discuss the necessity for IoT testing in terms of various criteria of identifying and fixing the problems in the IoT systems. In addition, this chapter examines the core components to be focused on IoT testing and testing scope based on IoT device classification. It also elaborates the various types of testing applied on healthcare IoT applications, and finally, this chapter summarizes the various challenges faced during IoT testing.
Instrumentation and Automation Grounding
Authors: Ghosh Shreem , Ghosh Arijit
Published: October 2021

In any electrical or electronic systems, unwanted signals known as noise signals are encountered which interact with the true signal and thus affecting signal quality. Noise may enter into a device or system in many forms and have a different order of impacts. Prevention and elimination of noise had attained paramount importance to ensure signal fidelity. This chapter presents a comprehensive analysis on elimination of noise by electronic grounding of instrumentation and automation systems as well as various engineering considerations for the same.
Smart Homes and Offices
Authors: Jain Nikita , Jain Rachna , Kumar Vaibhav
Published: October 2021

Smart Homes and Offices (SHO) are composed of interlinked components with constant data transfer and services targeted at increasing the lifestyle of the people. This chapter describes about the smart components and how SHO are direct implementation of Internet of Things (IOT). The major paradigm in this chapter is appliances supporting smart aspects of SHO, their applications and change in technology in context of smart Homes and Offices. Here we have also discussed the standardization and personalization of gadgets and how it has been increasing our standard of living. Finally, the chapter focuses on privacy preserving mechanisms, its essence over smart cities, strong architecture related to privacy, preserving mechanism, and various approaches available that can retaliate these issues in a smart city environment.