bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-ambulatory pigs in two Brazilian growing-finishing farms: a clinic, etiological and pathological perspective on 76 cases
Authors: Piva Manoela Marchezan , Schwertz Claiton I. , Henker Luan Cleber , Bianchi Ronaldo Michel , Kemper Regina Tose , de Almeida Bruno Albuquerque , Nagae Ricardo Yuiti , Michaelsen Taís Regina , Pavarini Saulo Petinatti
Published: August 2022

Background

Non-ambulatory pigs, colloquially known as downers or downed pigs, are animals presented with limited to no mobility, usually as a result of pre-existing neurologic or musculoskeletal conditions. Impaired ambulation is a major cause of euthanasia in pigs, leading to economic losses and animal welfare concerns. Additionally, reaching the underlying diagnosis of impaired ambulation in pigs is commonly a challenging task for swine practitioners. The aim of this necropsy-based study was to report the clinical, etiological, and pathological findings of 76 non-ambulatory grower-finisher pigs, and to correlate tail-biting lesions with the causes of death/reason for euthanasia in non-ambulatory pigs. Necropsies of downed pigs were performed during on-site visits to two pig farms in southern Brazil.

Results

The diagnosis of the conditions was based on the clinical, macroscopic, histopathological, bacteriological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings. The diseases diagnosed in non-ambulatory pigs in this study were suppurative arthritis (29/76), suppurative spondylitis (10/76), PVC-2 associated diseases (8/76), bone fracture (7/76), non-suppurative meningoencephalomyelitis (4/76), suppurative meningoencephalitis (6/76), fibrocartilaginous thromboembolism (3/76), epiphysiolysis (3/76), ascending bacterial myelitis (3/76), and other conditions (3/76). The frequency of suppurative arthritis, suppurative spondylitis, and ascending bacterial myelitis/meningitis was higher in pigs with tail biting lesions than controls (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Non-ambulatory pigs were observed during the entire rearing period, however, the occurrence of non-ambulatory pigs increased in animals aged ≥ 150 days. Infectious diseases were the most common cause of downed pigs, mainly associated with chronic bacterial infections. Tail biting lesions were an important predisposing factor to suppurative arthritis, suppurative spondylitis, and ascending bacterial myelitis/meningitis.
Machine learning based personalized promotion strategy of piglets weaned per sow per year in large-scale pig farms
Authors: Zhou Xingdong , Guan Ran , Cai Hongbo , Wang Pei , Yang Yongchun , Wang Xiaodu , Li Xiaowen , Song Houhui
Published: August 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between different productive factors and piglets weaned per sow per year (PSY) in 291 large-scale pig farms and analyze the impact of the changes in different factors on PSY. We chose nine different algorithm models based on machine learning to calculate the influence of each variable on every farm according to its current situation, leading to personalize the improvement of the impact in the specific circumstances of each farm, proposing a production guidance plan of PSY improvement for every farm. According to the comparison of mean absolute error (MAE), 95% confidence interval (CI) and R2, the optimal solution was conducted to calculate the influence of 17 production factors of each pig farm on PSY improvement, finding out the bottleneck corresponding to each pig farm. The level of PSY was further analyzed when the bottleneck factor of each pig farm changed by 0.5 standard deviation (SD).

Results

17 production factors were non-linearly related to PSY. The top five production factors with the highest correlation with PSY were the number of weaned piglets per litter (WPL) (0.6694), mating rate within 7 days after weaning (MR7DW) (0.6606), number of piglets born alive per litter (PBAL) (0.6517), the total number of piglets per litter (TPL) (0.5706) and non-productive days (NPD) (− 0.5308). Among nine algorithm models, the gradient boosting regressor model had the highest R2, smallest MAE and 95% CI, applied for personalized analysis. When one of 17 production factors of 291 large-scale pig farms changed by 0.5 SD, 101 pig farms (34.7%) can increase 1.41 PSY (compared to its original value) on average by adding the production days, and 60 pig farms (20.6%) can increase 1.14 PSY on average by improving WPL, 45 pig farms (15.5%) can increase 1.63 PSY by lifting MR7DW.

Conclusions

The main productive factors related to PSY included WPL, MR7DW, PBAL, TPL and NPD. The gradient boosting regressor model was the optimal method to individually analyze productive factors that are non-linearly related to PSY.
Study protocol for the evaluation of Fear-Less: a stepped-care program for fear of cancer recurrence in survivors with early-stage disease
Authors: Tran Mei Jun , Jefford Michael , Smith Ben , Lynch Fiona , Dhillon Haryana M. , Shaw Joanne , McDowell Lachlan , White Alan , Halloran Clare , Wiesenfeld David , Ftanou Maria
Published: August 2022

Background

Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is a significant unmet need amongst cancer survivors and is consistently associated with psychological distress and impaired quality of life. Psychological interventions for FCR, such as ConquerFear, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing FCR and improving emotional wellbeing. Unfortunately, there are barriers to the uptake of evidence-based FCR treatments in clinical practice. A stepped-care FCR treatment model may overcome these barriers and has demonstrated potential in people with advanced melanoma. This study aims to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and impact of a stepped-care FCR treatment model (Fear-Less) in people with other cancer types, who have completed treatment with curative intent.

Methods

Sixty people with early-stage cancer (defined as individuals who have received treatment with curative intent and with no metastatic disease) will be screened for FCR using the Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory—Short Form (FCRI-SF). Individuals reporting moderate FCR (FCRI-SF between 13 and 21) will be offered a clinician-guided self-management resource; those reporting high FCR (FCRI-SF ≥ 22) will be offered individual therapy according to the ConquerFear protocol. Participants will complete purpose-built evaluation surveys assessing their FCR screening and intervention experiences. Clinicians will also complete a survey regarding their experiences of the treatment model. Fear-Less will be evaluated in terms of (1) acceptability (i.e., patient and clinician experience), (2) feasibility (i.e., referral uptake, treatment adherence, and time taken to screen and deliver interventions), and (3) impact (i.e., pre- to post-intervention FCR changes).

Discussion

The Fear-Less stepped-care model is a novel framework for screening FCR and stratifying survivors to the appropriate level of treatment. Our study will provide an indication of whether Fear-Less is a feasible and acceptable FCR model of care amongst survivors with early-stage disease and inform further investigations of this model.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR); ACTRN12622000818730.
Bi-level optimization based two-stage market clearing model considering guaranteed accommodation of renewable energy generation
Authors: He Qianya , Lin Zhenjia , Chen Haoyong , Dai Xinyun , Li Yirui , Zeng Xin
Published: August 2022

The existing electricity market mechanisms designed to promote the consumption of renewable energy generation complicate network participation in market transactions owing to an unfair market competition environment, where the low cost renewable energy generation is not reflected in the high bidding price of high cost conventional energy generation. This study addresses this issue by proposing a bi-level optimization based two-stage market clearing model that considers the bidding strategies of market players, and guarantees the accommodation of renewable energy generation. The first stage implements a dual-market clearing mechanism that includes a unified market for trading the power generations of both renewable energy and conventional energy units, and a subsidy market reserved exclusively for conventional generation units. A re-adjustment clearing mechanism is then proposed in the second stage to accommodate the power generation of remaining renewable energy units after first stage energy allocations. Each stage of the proposed model is further described as a bi-level market equilibrium problem and is solved using a co-evolutionary algorithm. Finally, numerical results involving an improved IEEE 39-bus system demonstrate that the proposed two-stage model meets the basic requirements of incentive compatibility and individual rationality. It can facilitate the rational allocation of resources, promote the economical operation of electric power grids, and enhance social welfare.
Technical and technological constraints facing Tanzania leather value chain: a snapshot of intervention measures
Authors: China Cecilia Rolence , Elibariki Rahel , Msami Jamal , Mwombela Stephen , Wilson Lugano
Published: August 2022

The leather value chain starts with livestock, the key source of hides and skins, and the main raw materials for the industry. Despite having the second-largest livestock population in Africa, Tanzania is only the 11th largest exporter of leather on the continent, underlining the disproportionate contribution of the sector to the economy. This study presents the results of a recent assessment aimed at identifying performance bottlenecks in Tanzania's leather sector. The assessment took place in October–December 2020 and involved 10 tanneries, 30 leather goods factories and 11 service providers/institutions. Findings reveal that 90% of tanneries are dissatisfied with the quality of hides and skins due to brand marks, flay cuts, skin diseases, and inadequate curing. These supply chain bottlenecks are further compounded by skill deficiencies among processors, poor waste management, and limited awareness about laws, policies and regulations governing trade in the sector. At the downstream end of the value chain, the trade in leather and related articles is facing competition from high importation of low-grade products like plastic shoes and second-hand products. This paper recommends that efforts to increase leather's economic and trade value need to focus on upgrading Tanzania’s production, processing, branding and marketing capacities.

Graphical Abstract
Functional progressive resistance exercise versus eccentric muscle control in children with hemiplegia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Soliman Yosra Magdy , Eltohamy Amira Mohamed , Ayad Mona Nabil
Published: August 2022

Background

Historically, strength exercise in children with CP is not recommended, because it may develop spasticity, which results in difficulty with walking. But, recently increasing studies and systemic reviews have reported that strength exercise can promote muscle strength in children with CP with no negative impact on spasticity. The study is aiming to compare the effect of functional resistance exercise and functional eccentric training on dynamic balance and functional ability in children with hemiplegia. For this purpose, forty participating children diagnosed with spastic hemiplegia were included and their ages ranged from 6 to 13 years. They were randomly allocated into two groups: functional resistance exercise (group I) or eccentric muscle control exercise (group II). The training was conducted three times a week for 6 weeks for both groups. Each group received one of the interventions in addition to designed physical therapy programs. Functional ability and dynamic balance were measured before and after 6 weeks of the intervention by gross motor function measure and functional reach test.

Results

Comparison between the two groups before treatment revealed no significant difference in all values of functional ability and dynamic balance. But comparison after treatment in values showed significant improvement in both groups with greater improvements in favor of group I (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Adding both functional resistance exercise and eccentric muscle control exercise is beneficial for improving functional ability and dynamic balance with more recommendation for adding functional resistance exercise that showed more significant improvement than eccentric muscle control in children with hemiplegia.
Efficacy and moderators of cognitive therapy versus behavioural activation for adults with depression: study protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data
Authors: Driessen Ellen , Cohen Zachary D. , Lorenzo-Luaces Lorenzo , Hollon Steven D. , Richards David A. , Dobson Keith S. , Dimidjian Sona , Delgadillo Jaime , Vázquez Fernando L. , McNamara Kathleen , Horan John J. , Gardner Pauline , Oei Tian P. , Mehta Anuj H. P. , Twisk Jos W. R. , Cristea Ioana A. , Cuijpers Pim
Published: August 2022

Background

Cognitive therapy and behavioural activation are both widely applied and effective psychotherapies for depression, but it is unclear which works best for whom. Individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis allows for examining moderators at the participant level and can provide more precise effect estimates than conventional meta-analysis, which is based on study-level data.

Aims

This article describes the protocol for a systematic review and IPD meta-analysis that aims to compare the efficacy of cognitive therapy and behavioural activation for adults with depression, and to explore moderators of treatment effect. (PROSPERO: CRD42022341602)

Method

Systematic literature searches will be conducted in PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library, to identify randomised clinical trials comparing cognitive therapy and behavioural activation for adult acute-phase depression. Investigators of these trials will be invited to share their participant-level data. One-stage IPD meta-analyses will be conducted with mixed-effects models to assess treatment effects and to examine various available demographic, clinical and psychological participant characteristics as potential moderators. The primary outcome measure will be depressive symptom level at treatment completion. Secondary outcomes will include post-treatment anxiety, interpersonal functioning and quality of life, as well as follow-up outcomes.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first IPD meta-analysis concerning cognitive therapy versus behavioural activation for adult depression. This study has the potential to enhance our knowledge of depression treatment by using state-of-the-art statistical techniques to compare the efficacy of two widely used psychotherapies, and by shedding more light on which of these treatments might work best for whom.
Development and Validation of Risk Prediction Models for Coronary Heart Disease and Heart Failure After Treatment for Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: de Vries Simone , Haaksma Miriam L. , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , Schaapveld Michael , Hodgson David C. , Lugtenburg Pieternella J. , Krol Augustinus D.G. , Petersen Eefke J. , van Spronsen Dick Johan , Ahmed Sameera , Hauptmann Michael , Aleman Berthe M.P. , van Leeuwen Flora E.
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE

Previous efforts to predict absolute risk of treatment-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have mostly focused on childhood cancer survivors. We aimed to develop prediction models for risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and heart failure (HF) for survivors of adolescent/adult Hodgkin lymphoma (HL).

METHODS

For model development, we used a multicenter cohort including 1,433 5-year HL survivors treated between 1965 and 2000 and age 18-50 years at HL diagnosis, with complete data on administered chemotherapy regimens, radiotherapy volumes and doses, and cardiovascular follow-up. Using cause-specific hazard models, covariate-adjusted cumulative incidences for CHD and HF were estimated in the presence of competing risks of death because of other causes than CHD and HF. Age at HL diagnosis, sex, smoking status, radiotherapy, and anthracycline treatment were included as predictors. External validation for the CHD model was performed using a Canadian cohort of 708 HL survivors treated between 1988 and 2004 and age 18-50 years at HL diagnosis.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 24 years, 341 survivors had developed CHD and 102 had HF. We were able to predict CHD and HF risk at 20 and 30 years after treatment with moderate to good overall calibration and moderate discrimination (areas under the curve: 0.68-0.74), which was confirmed by external validation for the CHD model (areas under the curve: 0.73-0.74). On the basis of our model including prescribed mediastinal radiation dose, 30-year risks ranged from 4% to 78% for CHD and 3% to 46% for HF, depending on risk factors.

CONCLUSION

We developed and validated prediction models for CHD and HF with good overall calibration and moderate discrimination. These models can be used to identify HL survivors who might benefit from targeted screening for CVD and early treatment for CVD risk factors.
Six-Year Results From RELEVANCE: Lenalidomide Plus Rituximab (R2) Versus Rituximab-Chemotherapy Followed by Rituximab Maintenance in Untreated Advanced Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Morschhauser Franck , Nastoupil Loretta , Feugier Pierre , Schiano de Colella Jean-Marc , Tilly Hervé , Palomba Maria Lia , Bachy Emmanuel , Fruchart Christophe , Libby Edward N. , Casasnovas Rene-Olivier , Flinn Ian W. , Haioun Corinne , Maisonneuve Hervé , Ysebaert Loic , Bartlett Nancy L. , Bouabdallah Kamal , Brice Pauline , Ribrag Vincent , Le Gouill Steven , Daguindau Nicolas , Guidez Stéphanie , Pica Gian Matteo , García-Sancho Alejandro Martín , López-Guillermo Armondo , Larouche Jean-François , Ando Kiyoshi , Gomes da Silva Maria , André Marc , Kalung Wu , Sehn Laurie H. , Izutsu Koji , Cartron Guillaume , Gkasiamis Argyrios , Crowe Russell , Xerri Luc , Fowler Nathan H. , Salles Gilles
Published: August 2022

Clinical trials frequently include multiple end points that mature at different times. The initial report, typically based on the primary end point, may be published when key planned co-primary or secondary analyses are not yet available. Clinical Trial Updates provide an opportunity to disseminate additional results from studies, published in JCO or elsewhere, for which the primary end point has already been reported.

The RELEVANCE trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01650701 ) showed that lenalidomide plus rituximab (R2) provided similar efficacy to rituximab plus chemotherapy (R-chemo) in patients with advanced-stage, previously untreated follicular lymphoma (FL). We report the second interim analysis of the RELEVANCE trial after 6 years of follow-up. Patients with previously untreated grade 1-3a FL were assigned 1:1 to R2 or R-chemo, followed by rituximab maintenance. Coprimary end points were complete response (confirmed/unconfirmed) at week 120 and progression-free survival (PFS). At median follow-up of 72 months, 6-year PFS was 60% and 59% for R2 and R-chemo, respectively (hazard ratio = 1.03 [95% CI, 0.84 to 1.27]). Six-year overall survival was estimated to be 89% in both groups. Median PFS and overall survival were not reached in either group. Overall response after progression was 61% and 59%, and 5-year estimated survival rate after progression was 69% and 74% in the R2 and R-chemo groups, respectively. The transformation rate per year in the R2 and R-chemo groups was 0.68% and 0.45%, and secondary primary malignancies occurred in 11% and 13% ( P = .34), respectively. No new safety signals were observed. R2 continues to demonstrate comparable, durable efficacy and safety versus R-chemo in previously untreated patients with FL and provides an acceptable chemo-free alternative.
Exercise to Treat Hypertension: Late Breaking News on Exercise Prescriptions That FITT
Authors: Alves Alberto J. , Wu Yin , Lopes Susana , Ribeiro Fernando , Pescatello Linda S.
Published: August 2022

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease and an independent predictor of mortality. The prevalence of hypertension has doubled in the last two decades and evidence suggests that almost half the individuals are unaware of their condition. The antihypertensive effects of exercise are now undisputable, and exercise training is recommended by the major professional and scientific societies, including the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), as first-line treatment to prevent, treat, and control hypertension. This review aims to overview the evidence supporting the current ACSM Frequency, Intensity, Time, and Type exercise recommendations for hypertension, discuss new and emerging evidence on exercise in the treatment of hypertension from our laboratories; and propose future directions of research integrating this new and emerging evidence.
The gridlock of the Trans-Himalayan railway: China’s strategic calculations about Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Gaurav
Published: August 2022

Although discussion about connecting Chinese railways to Nepal borders first surfaced in the year 1973, it could not make any headway until the political change of 2006 in Nepal, when the idea of linking Tibet with Kathmandu resurfaced again. However, political instability in Nepal further thwarted it, at least until Nepal faced the Indian blockade in 2015 and had to look for ways to diversify its trade and transit. Thus, for Nepal, China’s railways offer an escape from its dependence on India for trade and transit. But, for Beijing, it offers a strategic gateway to enter South Asia, which is India’s conventional sphere of influence. Although Nepal and its northern neighbor China have agreed to connect Nepal’s capital Kathmandu with the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China through railways, the materialization of such a game-changer is not free from challenges. Against the same backdrop, the objective of this study is to discover various challenges faced by the trans-Himalayan railways including political, bureaucratic, economic, and environmental challenges, and to concurrently identify how the geopolitical challenge tops the list, halting Nepal’s ambition to ‘bridge’ India and China and instead aggravating the possibility of becoming a burden to both the Asian giants. While the available literature on China and South Asia is mostly concentrated on Belt and Road (BRI) projects, ‘debt trap’ narratives, and geopolitical rivalry between India and China, this study would be a new attempt to understand how China’s aim to get connected with South Asia via land is not free of impediments. Using the qualitative method, this study reviews the geopolitical challenges confronted by the trans-Himalayan railway in the context of territorial disputes between India and China in the Himalayan region and the U.S.-Indian strategic partnership to contain the rise of China and its ambitious connectivity projects.
Innate triggering and antiviral effector functions of Activin A
Authors: Al-Hourani Kinda , Ramamurthy Narayan , Marchi Emanuele , Eichinger Ruth , Li Lian , Fabris Paolo , Drakesmith Alexander Hal , Klenerman Paul
Published: August 2022

Background: First-line defence against viral infection is contingent upon rapid detection of conserved viral structural and genomic motifs by pattern recognition receptors, followed by activation of the type I IFN  response and establishment of an antiviral state. Novel antiviral functions of bone morphogenetic protein and related activin cytokines, acting in conjunction with, and independently of, type I IFN, have recently been described. How these antiviral effects are mediated and triggered by viral infection has not been defined.

Methods: Microarray and RNAseq data from hepatoma-derived cell lines stimulated with Activin A in vitro were interrogated both by pathway analysis and for evidence of IFN-stimulated gene induction. Liver tissue obtained from patients with chronic HCV were examined by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) for evidence of Activin A induction. Activin expression by peripheral blood mononuclear cells exposed to nucleic acid analogues was quantified by RT-qCR, whereas induction dynamics in acute infection was investigated in in vitro Sendai virus infection and a murine influenza A.

Results: Transcriptomic analyses delineated strikingly congruent patterns of gene regulation in hepatocytes stimulated with recombinant Activin A and IFNα in vitro. Activin A mRNA, encoded by INHBA, is induced upon activation of RIG-I, MDA5 and TLR7/8 viral nucleic acid sensors in vitro, across multiple cell lines and in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In vivo, imurine influenza A also upregulated Inhba mRNA in the lung; this local upregulation of Inhba is retained in MAVS knockout mice, indicating roles for non-RIG-I-like receptors in its induction. Activin induction and signalling were also detectable in patients with chronic viral hepatitis.

Conclusions: These data suggest Activin A is triggered in parallel with type I IFN responses and can trigger related antiviral effector functions, with implications for the development of targeted antiviral therapies and revealing novel facets of Activin biology.
School and community driven dengue vector control and monitoring in Myanmar: Study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Overgaard Hans J. , Linn Nay Yi Yi , Kyaw Aye Mon Mon , Braack Leo , Win Tin Myo , Bastien Sheri , Vande Velde Fiona , Echaubard Pierre , Zaw Win , Mukaka Mavuto , Maude Richard
Published: August 2022

Background. Dengue is the most common and widespread mosquito-borne arboviral disease globally estimated to cause >390 million infections and >20,000 deaths annually. There are no effective vaccines or preventive drugs. Control of dengue transmission relies primarily on mosquito vector control. Although most vector control methods currently used by national dengue control programs may temporarily reduce mosquito populations, there is little evidence that they affect transmission. There is an urgent need for innovative, participatory, effective, and locally adapted approaches for sustainable vector control and monitoring in which students can be particularly relevant contributors and to demonstrate a clear link between vector reduction and dengue transmission reduction, using tools that are inexpensive and easy to use by local communities in a sustainable manner.

Methods. Here we describe a cluster randomized controlled trial to be conducted in 46 school catchment areas in two townships in Yangon, Myanmar. The outcome measures are dengue cases confirmed by rapid diagnostic test in the townships, dengue incidence in schools, entomological indices, knowledge, attitudes and practice, behavior, and engagement.

Conclusions. The trial involves middle school students that positions them to become actors in dengue knowledge transfer to their communities and take a leadership role in the delivery of vector control interventions and monitoring methods. Following this rationale, we believe that students can become change agents of decentralized vector surveillance and sustainable disease control in line with recent new paradigms in integrated and participatory vector surveillance and control. This provides an opportunity to operationalize transdisciplinary research towards sustainable health development. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability in Myanmar the project has been terminated by the donor, but the protocol will be helpful for potential future implementation of the project in Myanmar and/or elsewhere.

Registration: This trial was registered in the ISRCTN Registry on 31 May 2022 (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN78254298).
COMMERCIAL AND CONSUMER INDICATORS OF QUALITY AND ECONOMICALLY VALUABLE SIGNS OF INTRODUCED CHERRY VARIETIES OF DIFFERENT MATURATION DATES CULTIVATED IN FOOTHILL FRUIT ZONE OF DAGESTAN
Authors: Guseynova Batuch , Abdulgamidov Magomed , Musaeva Ragima
Published: August 2022

Comparative assessment of yield, commercial-consumer and tasting parameters of fruit quality of more than 20 introduced cherry varieties of different maturation periods grown in agro-ecological conditions of Dagestan foothills is presented. The most promising varieties, characterized by high yield, the best commercial and consumer and organoleptic properties, were revealed. Studies of quality indicators were carried out using generally accepted methods. It was determined that the mass of the fruit in the studied varieties averaged 6.4 g, and the maximum was 8.3 g (variety Krupnoplodnaya). In the group of middle-aged, with a fruit weight of 6.1-9.5 g, varieties of cherries of early ripening are assigned - Kosmicheskaya (6.6 g) and Valery Chkalov (7.0 g) and all studied varieties of cherries of early-middle and middle ripening, with the exception of varieties Melitopol'skaya rozovaya (5.3 g) and Melitopol'skaya rannyaya (5.4 g). All studied cherry varieties belong to the group of varieties with average sugar accumulation (8.89-11.85%) and acidity (0.65-0.89%). The highest tasting score (5 points) received the fruits of cherry varieties Kosmicheskaya, Valery Chkalov, Krupnoplodnaya, Melitopol'skaya chernaya, Vinka and Romantika, which during the research (2019-2021) showed a good ability to form a crop. A comprehensive assessment of the investigated introduced cherry varieties grown in the foothills of Dagestan showed that the most promising, characterized by high yields, the best commercial and consumer and tasting properties are the Kosmicheskaya, Valery Chkalov, Krupnoplodnaya, Melitopol'skaya chernaya, Vinka and Romantika varieties. These varieties may be recommended for further successful use in production and selection work in order to optimize the industrial variety of cherries
SURVIVAL AND WINTER HARDINESS OF GENOTYPES OF ORIGANUM VULGARE L. IN THE NORTHERN FOREST-STEPPE CONDITIONS OF THE TYUMEN REGION
Authors: Reneva Mariya , Gubanov Valeriy , Gubanova V.
Published: August 2022

The aim of the research is to study the collections of oregano for winter hardiness in the conditions of the Northern forest-steppe of the Tyumen region in order to select the best genotypes. The material for the study was 23 specimens of oregano, collection selections were taken from the collection of the All-Russian Institute of Plant Genetic Resources named after N.I. Vavilov, as well as from different regions. N.I. Vavilov, as well as from different regions of the Tyumen region. The experiment was planted in 2017 using the seedling method. Field studies were conducted in 2017-2019 in the experimental field of the Research Institute of Agriculture of the Northern Trans-Ural - Branch of the Federal Research Center Tyumen Scientific Center of the Siberian Branch of RAS (Moskovsky settlement, Tyumen district), which is located in the northern forest-steppe. The soil is dark grey forest, heavy loam. The reaction of the soil solution in the salt extract is 5.5...6.8 (GOST 26483-85). Soil humus content (on absolutely dry matter) was 1,50...4,75 % (GOST 26213-91), P2O5 was 7,6...18,0 mg/100 g of soil; K2O was 8,0...25,7 mg/100 g of soil (GOST 26204-91). Observations and records were conducted according to the methodology of the State Crop Variety Test. Meteorological conditions in 2017-2019 varied considerably from the mean annual values. As a result of the analysis of the presented 23 genotypes winter hardiness of oregano in the first year of life is 68...100 %, and in the second year of life 94...97 %. Genotype T-3 has high winter hardiness, while its losses during wintering were recorded only in the second year of life at 3%. The greatest number of rooted plants was recorded for genotypes K-1 (94 %), M-2 (93 %), K-2 (93 %), which was 8...9 % higher than the standard variety. The high level of plant survival was established in genotypes before wintering in the second year of life and in the spring of the third year of life and amounted to 94...97 %
CONTROL SYSTEM OF AN EXPERIMENTAL INTALLATION FOR ELECTROPHYSICAL EFFECTS ON GRAIN
Authors: Budnikov Dmitriy
Published: August 2022

Currently, the development of effective control systems for technological equipment is still actual problem. This project aims to develop and manufacture a learning control system that can implement control according to specified drying criteria and operating on the basis of changes in the moisture content of the processed material. This article presents the results of the development of a control system for a laboratory setup of electrophysical effects on grain. During this work elements of experimental planning, elements of statistical processing, computer modeling by using applied software for electrodynamic modeling, development of SCADA systems and programming of control equipment were used. The experiments were carried out using certified measuring equipment. The value of the research results lies in determining energy-efficient operating modes of grain processing equipment using a microwave field. The scientific novelty of the research consists in determining the grain wetness by the relative decrease voltage of the electromagnetic field in the layer of processed grain. Main provisions: the application of the developed humidity level control system allows you to determine the wetness content of the grain layer during processing by a microwave field; the implementation of one setup of combined microwave-convective drying of grain with a capacity of 5 tons per hour, operating under the control of the developed system and designed for productivity, allows you to get an income of 5231.2 thousand rubles for eight years of project implementation, while the simple payback period of capital investments will be 3.6 years. Conclusions: the using of the developed system by the experimental installation of microwave effecting on grain makes it possible to implement control according to relevant control criteria, while the average energy consumption of wheat drying from 20 to 14% stands at 3.7 MJ per kg of evaporated moisture; the implementation of the control system for the technological process of electrophysical exposure with further improvement allows for the accumulation of statistical information and the developing of operating modes of equipment according to more complete data.
Toward Conceptualizing Communication «As Such»
Authors: Klyukanov I.
Published: August 2022

The article discusses the question of what constitutes the sui generis of the ‘science of communication’ and how it is different from other areas of scientific knowledge. Two such attempts are considered: Lee Thayer’s article entitled 'On Theory-Building in Communication: Some Conceptual Problems', published in 1963, and Silvio Weisbord’s book entitled 'Communication: A Post-Discipline', which came out after half a century after Lee Thayer's article. It is argued that it is possible to conceptualize the nature of the science of communication only by referring to the ontological foundations of communication. In this regard, to conceptualize the nature of the science of communication means to define it as a scientific object that is different from the objects of all other sciences. It is noted that the 'object-horizon' structure creates a perspective, thanks to which objects appear to our consciousness. From these positions, it is difficult to define communication 'as such', identifying its limit, since its horizon is also communication. Accordingly, communication is an object that exists as something whole in its various manifestations. It seems that the science of communication 'as such' can be aimed at conceptualizing this.
ORTHOEPIC VARIANTS AS SOCIOLINGUISTIC VARIABLES IN ORAL SPEECH COMMUNICATION
Authors: Nadeina T.
Published: August 2022

The article presents the research of correlation between orthoepic variants used by a speaker and his socio-demographic characteristics, obtained by means of native modern Russian speakers survey. The relationship between frequency of orthoepic variant choosing and gender and age of speakers was studied. The absence of gender differences in the choice of orthoepic variants was revealed, on the one hand, and the existence of a relationship between frequency of some variants and the age of respondent, on the other hand. The necessity of further comprehensive study of socially marked pronunciation variants in Russian language is highlighted.
What Is Communication?
Authors: Goncharova Lyubov
Published: August 2022

The editor-in-chief’s column provides an overview of the issue, trends and directions of modern communication research are noted.
The Conceptual Metaphor of the Chinese Miracle in Russian Digital Media
Authors: Kitanina E. , Czou Tyan'ci
Published: August 2022

The article gives a multidimensional characterization of the cognitive metaphor of the Chinese miracle, which appeared as an addition to the truthful, realistic image of China in Russian digital media; as confirmation that China's influence on the world economy is increasing. China is becoming the subject of discussion in many media outlets, as a result of which, on the one hand, a dynamic, and, on the other hand, a radically changing image of China appears in Russian digital media, expressed through the key conceptual metaphor of the Chinese miracle. The authors analyze the source spheres of the Chinese miracle concept, represented by special lexical units in the Russian media discourse, using such research methods as definitional analysis, interpretive analysis, contextual analysis, content analysis. The results of the scientific research are shown on the basis of typologization of the metaphor of the Chinese miracle, differently presented in the modern Russian media language picture of the world.
Risk factors increasing the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS)
Authors: Kuc Monika , Agnieszka Siedlak  , Katarzyna Cyboran  , Dominik Machaj  , Alicja Płaczek
Published: August 2022

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic demyelinating disease. The etiology of MS is complex and can be associated with many different factors acting simultaneously or in a cascade. There is ample evidence that latitude, light and vitamin D exposure, and migration have a major influence on the incidence of MS. This shows the uneven distribution of the sick population across the globe. The participation of environmental factors such as bacteria and viruses as well as smoking is not excluded.
Novel immunotherapy in the management of advanced urothelial cancer - review of the literature
Authors: Chmiel Paulina , Kłosińska Martyna , Kaczyńska Agnieszka
Published: August 2022

Bladder neoplasms, with the most common urothelial carcinoma, are responsible for approximately 200,000 deaths annually, which is 2.1% of the total cancer deaths in 2018. Recent decades have brought a steadily growing share of this cancer in the statistics. The 5-year survival rate is 77.1% for the United States and it varies depending on the stage of the diagnosed neoplasm, from 96% for cancer in situ to only 5% for the disseminated form with distant metastases. The treatment of urothelial cancer can be divided depending on the stage and advancement. Three main categories of bladder cancer can be distinguished: non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, treated by surgical approaches, and muscle-invasive bladder cancer, treated with chemotherapeutics, lastly advanced bladder cancer with distant metastases, treated with intensive chemotherapy in the MVAC scheme (methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin). Recently introduced checkpoint inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma by increasing patient life expectancy, progression-free survival, and durability of clinical response. This review of the literature will discuss the use of immunotherapy in the treatment of advanced bladder cancer.
A Review on Energy-Sustainable Design and Operation of Greenhouses for Plant/Crop Production in Cold Regions
Authors: Wei Anni , Chen Yuxiang
Published: August 2022

Highlights

In cold regions, the immense energy consumption for space heating of greenhouses is a significant problem.

Energy-efficient measures have been presented for conventional and nonconventional design aspects.

Renewable resources have considerable potential to be used in greenhouses.

Abstract. The energy consumption of greenhouses in cold regions, especially for space heating, is immense and therefore economically unbearable. The main objective of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art energy-saving strategies for the design and operation of greenhouses in cold regions. The review covers conventional functions (lighting, air quality and temperature control, and irrigation), nonconventional functions (thermal insulation, thermal energy storage, and utilization of ground-source and renewable energy), and numerical modelling of the energy-performance of greenhouses. For each of these topics, pertinent plant science is provided and performance assessments are presented. The findings from this review conclude that hybrid lighting (LED with high-pressure sodium lamps) and proper scheduling result in the best combination of energy efficiency and plant yield. However, further studies are still required in this field. Keywords: Cold regions, Energy-efficiency, Greenhouse, Sustainability.
The Effects of Crosswind Speed on the Droplet Deposition Distribution of Thrush 510G Aircraft
Authors: Liu Qi , Lan Yubin , Wang Guobin , Zhu Hang , Chen Shengde
Published: August 2022

Highlights

The penetration ability of droplet in the crop canopy was in a negative correlation with wind speed.

The high wind speed was conducive to the deposition of droplet on the crop canopy in the deposition area.

The smaller the wind speed was, the more uniform the distribution of droplets became, and the worse the uniformity of droplet penetration.

Abstract. Large plant protection fixed-wing aircrafts are widely used for crop spraying in Northeast China, because their working efficiency matches farm size. However, the spray droplet deposition and drift associated with manned fixed-wing aircraft has not been fully understood in China. The objectives of this study were to quantify effects of the small gradient crosswind speeds of 1.10, 0.83, and 0.58 m/s on the distribution and drift of droplets on soybean in the field. Water-sensitive paper (WSP) was used to collect the droplets on the upper canopy and lower parts of the plant. The results showed that the percentage of droplet deposition (the percentage of droplet deposition on the lower layer to that on the canopy of soybean plant) negatively correlated with the crosswind speeds. The crosswind speed had a significant influence on the deposition of droplets on the canopy and penetration performance. When the crosswind speed was 1.10 m/s, the deposition of droplet on the canopy was maximum and the average value of droplet penetration percentage was minimum, which was 6.11 µL and 50.6%, respectively. The average volume median diameters (VMD or DV0.5s) from all in-swath WSPs of three treatments were all smaller than that of droplet spectrum. The variation coefficients of droplet density in three treatments were 46.8%, 39.6%,and 34.1%, respectively, which indicated that the smaller the wind speed was, the more uniform the distribution of droplets became. The results revealed the influence of crosswind speed on the droplet distribution of large fixed-wing aircraft, which was of great significance to improve the operation. Keywords: Droplets distribution, Penetration, Uniformity performance, Wind speed.
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION OF UNIVERSITY FACULTY BY COMBINING BSC, AHP, AND TOPSIS: FROM THE STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Moradi Nima
Published: August 2022

Today, the university plays an important role in establishing a relationship between industry and academia by training a specialized workforce. Due to the important role of the university in the development of a country, evaluating the performance of the faculty or research centers of universities is one of the vital issues in the quality management of universities. In this paper, a performance evaluation method is presented for three faculty of a university located in Istanbul, Turkey (the name of university is kept in confidential due to the request of the university’s expert). The proposed method is based on the combination of Balanced Scorecard (BSC), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). First, BSC and AHP are integrated, and then the strategies and measures are introduced for each perspective of BSC. Then, by implementing the TOPSIS method, a comprehensive performance evaluation approach was proposed and discussed with the university management. The proposed methodology was validated by a real case study based on the judgments of students and verified by sensitivity analysis. Finally, several managerial insights, conclusions, and suggestions for future studies are presented.
Being a Vocational Teacher in Sweden: Navigating the Regime of Competence for Vocational Teachers
Authors: Antera Sofia
Published: August 2022

Context: Vocational teachers are called to constantly meet the upcoming needs in social and working life. In Sweden, the high demand for vocational teachers has led to their recruitment in the early stages of vocational teacher studies or even before teacher training. Entering this new community of practice, vocational teachers cross boundaries between their previous occupation and their teaching job, mediating the introduction of competence between them. In this context, the study explores vocational teachers' competence through their own perceptions, addressing important competence areas, as well as how competence is understood. Approach: The study employs a socio-cultural perspective on learning. Communities of practice establish their regime of competence, a set of principles and expectations that recognise membership. To be competent is translated as understanding the shared enterprise of the community, being capable and allowed to engage in it and, thus, interact with the other members and with the available resources. Hence, what is expected by members to know and to be is defined by the regime of competence and, hence, by the community. Comprised of 14 semi-structured interviews with vocational teachers in different vocational disciplines, employed both in upper secondary and adult education schools, the study adopts a qualitative research strategy. The research material was analysed thematically. Findings: According to findings, important competence comprise of up-to-date vocational competence supporting the performance of vocational teaching, but also interpersonal competence, including good communication and the construction of a close relationship with the students. The student-teacher relationship serves as the basis to match students with their work placement, facilitating higher work-based training quality. Moreover, maintaining a continuous development attitude and openness to critique are crucial for teachers. Finally, teachers approach competence focusing on its relationship to action and performance, while also referring to its situated nature. Therefore, to be competent is understood differently in different practices (teaching and occupational), highlighting the importance of understanding the uniqueness and duality within the regime of competence of vocational teaching.  Conclusion: Teachers have described the importance of competence which was not developed during teacher training. Instead, important competences were often developed in the previous profession or informal teaching activities. Vocational teachers seem to value and utilise their previous occupational worker identities to a high extent. This should be considered when teacher training or in-service training is designed to support individuals in developing their (new) teacher identity.