bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Behaviors of (E)-Pyriminobac-methyl in Agricultural Soils
Authors: Zhou Wenwen , Jia Haoran , Liu Lang , Li Baotong , Li Yuqi , Gao Meizhu
Published: July 2021

(E)-Pyriminobac-methyl (EPM), a pyrimidine benzoic acid esters herbicide, has a high potential as weedicide; nevertheless, its environmental behaviors are still not well understood. In this study, we systematically investigated for the first time the adsorption–desorption, degradation, and leaching behaviors of EPM in agricultural soils from five exemplar sites in China (characterized by different physicochemical properties) through laboratory simulation experiments. The EPM adsorption–desorption results were well fitted by the Freundlich model (R2 > 0.9999). In the analyzed soils, the Freundlich adsorption (i.e., Kf-ads) and desorption (i.e., Kf-des) coefficients of EPM varied between 0.85–32.22 mg1−1/n L1/n kg−1 and between 0.78–5.02 mg1−1/n L1/n kg−1, respectively. Moreover, the degradation of EPM reflected first-order kinetics: its half-life ranged between 37.46–66.00 d depending on the environmental conditions, and abiotic degradation was predominant in the degradation of this compound. The mobility of EPM in the five soils varied from immobile to highly mobile. The groundwater ubiquity score ranged between 0.9765–2.7160, indicating that EPM posed threat to groundwater quality. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate the easy degradability of EPM, as well as its high adsorption affinity and low mobility in soils with abundant organic matter content and high cation exchange capacity. Under such conditions, there is a relatively low contamination risk for groundwater systems in relation to this compound. Overall, our findings provide a solid basis for predicting the environmental impacts of EPM.
Polymorphism of Riboflavin Transporter (RFVT) Gene in Patients with Esophageal Cancer in Hakka Population in Southern China
Authors: Li Tao , Hu Wanqin , Zheng Minli , Qiu Bo , Yang Yuhui
Published: July 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to examine the human riboflavin transporter (RFVT) gene polymorphism in Hakka esophageal cancer patients in Guangdong Province and to explore its relationship with esophageal cancer. Methods: We used matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization flight time mass spectrometry to genotype RFVT1 rs346821 and RFVT2 rs13042395 in 211 Hakka esophageal cancer patients and 216 healthy controls in Meizhou. Results: There were polymorphisms in the rs346821 and rs13042395 in the two groups of Hakka; G/A polymorphism in the RFVT1 gene rs346821; three genotypes GG, AG, and AA of RFVT rs346821 were found in the Meizhou Hakka population, with distribution frequencies in the esophageal cancer group at 61.61, 36.02, and 2.37% respectively; the frequencies of allele G and A were 79.62 and 20.38%. The distribution frequencies of the three genotypes in the control subjects were 54.17, 40.28, and 5.55% respectively; the frequencies of allele G and A were 74.31 and 25.69%. There was a significant difference observed in the binary logistic analysis; the occurence of AG and AA genotypes in the Hakka population were 2.424 times and 1.922 times higher than that of the GG genotype. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that RFVT1 rs346821 had a missense mutation, and the corresponding amino acid was changed from alanine to valine, resulting in a change in its protein structure. Conclusions: The study concluded that RFVT1 rs346821 polymorphism might be associated with the genetic susceptibility of the Hakka population to esophageal cancer. The variation in the protein structure resulting from the variation of RFVT1 rs346821 might have a significant influence on the occurrence and development of esophageal cancer in the Hakka population.
Anti Bacterial Activity of Lavandula Extracts, Pathogen and Probiotics Bacteria
Authors: khodagholi Asal , Soltani Mahdieh , Akbarin Mohammad Mehdi , Farjami Zahra
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Herbs of the lavender genus are widely used today as anti-bacterial drugs in traditional medicine. Lavandula angustifolia (LA) is endemic in the Iberian Peninsula and common in Iran that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Lavandula oils, well known for their scent and aroma, have been used in the perfumery and food industry for many years, therefore the aim of this study is the assessment of the anti-bacterial effect of LA extracts against pathogens and non-pathogen bacteria. Methods: 96-well microplates MICs were determined by the broth microdilution method. Five Serial dilutions from 50 to 1 μg/mL concentrations were admitted for all bacteria which include: Escherichia Coli ATCC 25922, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, and Probiotics complex. Results: LA watery extract demonstrate the statically inhibitory effect in just 50 g/L concentration against E.Coli, E. Faecalis, Pu, and Probiotic p= 0.024, 0.025, 0.004, and 0.012 respectively, whereas this concentration was 1g/L for Staph. aureus p=0.026. LA alcohol extracts display the same effect in 1g/L for all bacteria p= 0.000.Conclusion: Our results showed that LA in both watery and Alcohol extractions can inhibit both pathogenic and non-pathogen bacteria whereas active compounds are alcohol soluble. Long-time consumption of LA in the herbal product could disrupt normal bacteria of the gastrointestinal system.
The Process Development of Glass Cullet and Recycled Glass Aggregate for Improving Recycling Rate
Authors: Lee Hansol , Lee Hoon
Published: July 2021

Due to depletion of resources and the spread of environmental pollution, the sustainability of raw materials is emerging as an important issue. Glass bottles are one of the products that are easy to recycle, and many studies have been conducted to improve the recycling rate. In this study, we attempted to develop the waste glass bottles process that can be recycled into a glass cullet and recycled glass aggregate. To produce a cullet from waste glass bottles(WGBs), color quality standards must be satisfied. Therefore, we applied a multistage color sorter to the experiment. The recycled aggregate glass must adjust the particle size. Thus, we experimented with the optimum crusher selection test when applying the crushing process. And, we confirmed the appropriateness of process by aspect ratio analysis of product. In addition, we confirmed the trends in the data required to set the optimum design and operating conditions of the selected vertical shaft impact(VSI) crusher using discrete element method(DEM) simulations.
LncRNA EGFR-AS1 Regulates Breast Cancer Cells Function and Sensitivity to Docetaxel Via the miR-149-5p/ELP5 Axis
Authors: Li Shiping , Mi Xiaoyi , Sun Mingfang , Zhang Jie , Hao Miaomiao , Cao Qixue , Diao Kexin , Wang Jian , Li Hanwen , Liu Bin
Published: July 2021

Background: Recently, an increasing number of studies have focused on investigating long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their role in regulating the progression of various cancer types. However, the biological effects and underlying mechanisms of EGFR-AS1, a typical lncRNA, remain largely unclear in breast cancer.Methods: Differential expression of EGFR-AS1 in breast cancer tissue was analyzed using an integrative database and verified in breast cancer tissue samples and cells via real-time PCR analysis and western blotting analysis. The tumor promoter role of EGFR-AS1 in breast cancer cells was determined through MTT, EDU analysis, colony formation and transwell assays,and the effect of EGFR-AS1 on docetaxel drug sensitivity was examined. We then performed bioinformatic analysis and the dual-luciferase reporter assay to identify the binding sites of EGFR-AS1/miR-149-5p and miR-149-5p/ELP5. Results from western blotting and biological function studies provided insights into whether the EGFR-AS1/miR-149-5p/ELP5 axis regulates breast cancer development in vitro and in vivo. Results: EGFR-AS1 is upregulated in breast cancer tissues and cells and promotes the progression of breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, miR-149-5p is downregulated in breast cancer tissues and cell lines. Mechanistically, EGFR-AS1 regulates ELP5 levels by sponging miR-149-5p, thereby affecting cell progression and promoting epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Hence, the EGFR-AS1/miR-149-5p/ELP5 axis is involved in breast cancer proliferation, migration, invasion, and resistance to the chemotherapeutic drug, docetaxel, in breast cancer cells. Conclusions: EGFR-AS1 sponges miR-149-5p to affect the expression level of ELP5 ultimately acting as a new tumor promotor in breast cancer. This study provides novel insights into diagnostic and docetaxel-related chemotherapy targets for breast cancer.
Critical Evaluation of the Agronomic Effectiveness of Recovered Phosphate Fertilizer Produced From Incinerated Sewage Sludge Ash
Authors: FANG Le , Wang Qiming , Li Jiang-shan , Poon Chi Sun
Published: July 2021

Phosphorus (P) recovery from incinerated sewage sludge ash (ISSA) has been extensively investigated, and various recovered phosphate fertilizers (RPFs) have been produced. In this study, three RPFs (calcium phosphate compounds (CaP), struvite (SP), and P-loaded biochar (BP)) produced from ISSA were characterized and their agronomic effectiveness were verified by pot experiments with the cultivation of choy sum (Brassica campestris L. ssp. Chinensis var. utillis Tsen et Lee) and ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). The SP has the highest P purity while the BP has the most complex P species. And the plant growth results showed that the RPFs greatly facilitated plant growth and demonstrated superior/comparable effects to those of MP/CoF. In general, choy sum fertilized with SP showed the best effect due to the Mg involved and the high P purity of SP, while ryegrass fertilized with BP performed the best among all of the groups because of the additional nutritional elements and the high P availability of BP. Additionally, the accumulation of heavy metals in the plants under all conditions did not exceed the limits stipulated in the regulations. These results indicate that recovering P from ISSA is an attractive technology to produce P fertilizers, which can alleviate both the scarcity of phosphate resources and the burden of ISSA management.
Protective role of mRNA demethylase FTO on axon guiding molecules of nigro-striatal projection system in manganese-induced Parkinsonism
Authors: Qi Zhipeng , Li Jiashuo , Zhang Ke , Liu Yanan , Yang Xinxin , Li Minghui , Du Xianchao , Zhang Lei , Wen Yi , Xu Bin , Liu Wei , Xu Zhaofa , Deng Yu
Published: July 2021

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease caused by environmental and genetic factors. Manganese (Mn) exposure is a major environmental cause of PD. Cellular and molecular mechanism of Parkinsonism caused by Mn has not been explored clearly. In addition, patients with Mn-induced Parkinsonism show poor therapeutic response to levodopa. Therefore, there is need to explore the mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity of Mn exposure.
Methods

In short, we used SH-SY5Y cells and C57BL/6 mice to characterize Mn-induced Parkinsonism. We measured the behavioral, histological, ultrastructural and nigro-striatal projection system changes, cell viability, axon growth, and other target indicator levels, which led to the discovery of a novel mechanism of Mn-induced neurotoxicity.
Results

The findings of the current study showed that inhibition of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO)-mediated demethylation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) mRNA aggravates Mn-induced motor dysfunction. Notably, FTO level is low in Mn exposure model mice and enhances occurrence of dyskinesia in mice. Over-expression of FTO reduces m6A methylation in the key axon guiding molecules of nigro-striatal projection system, including ephrin-A5 and ephrin-B2. It increases ephrin-B2 mRNA decay through the m6A reader YT521-B homology domain family proteins 2 (YTHDF2).
Conclusions

The findings of this study show that FTO, a m6A demethylase, performs an indispensable function in Mn-induced Parkinsonism. Notably, re-expression of FTO and ephrin-B2 improved motor dysfunction after Mn exposure.
Quality of knee osteoarthritis care in the Netherlands: A survey on the perspective of people with osteoarthritis
Authors: Oomen J.M.H. , Peters Y.A.S. , Ende C.H. van den , Schers H.J. , Assendelft W.J.J. , Vriezekolk J.E. , Koëter S.
Published: July 2021

Background: Quality indicators (QIs) are used to monitor quality of care and adherence to osteoarthritis (OA) standards of care. Patient reported QIs can identify the most important gaps in quality of care and the most vulnerable patient groups. The aim of this study was to capture the perspective of people with knee OA (KOA) in the Netherlands on the quality of care received, and explore determinants related to lower achievement rates.Methods: We sent an online survey to all members of The Dutch Knee Panel (n = 622) of the Sint Maartenskliniek Nijmegen, the Netherlands. The survey consisted of a slightly adapted version of the “OsteoArthritis Quality Indicator” (OA-QI) questionnaire (18 items; yes, no, N/A); a rating of quality of KOA care on a 10-point scale; a question on whether or not one wanted to see change in the care for KOA; and an open-ended question asking recommendations for improvement of OA care. Furthermore, sociodemographic and disease related characteristics were collected. Pass rates for separate QIs and pass rates on patient level were calculated by dividing the number of times the indicator was achieved by the number of eligible persons for that particular indicator. Results: A total of 434 participants (70%) completed the survey. The mean (SD) pass rate for separate QIs was 49% (20%); ranging from 15% for receiving referral for weight reduction to 75% for patient education on how to manage knee OA. The mean (SD) pass rate on patient level was 52% (23%). Presence of OA in other joints, comorbidities, and having a knee replacement were associated with higher pass rates. On average, a score of 6.5 (1.6) was given for the quality of care received, and the majority of respondents (59%) wanted change in the care for KOA. Of 231 recommendations made, most often mentioned were the need for tailoring of care (14%), more education (13%), and more empathy and support from healthcare providers (12%).Conclusion: This study found patients are only moderately satisfied with the OA care received, and showed substantial gaps between perceived quality of care for OA and internationally accepted standards. Future research should focus on the underlying reasons and provide strategies to bridge these gaps.
Hepatic Metastasis from Perianal Paget's Disease Without Identified Underlying Carcinoma: A Case Report
Authors: Cao Yi-Sheng , Wang Shu-Yan
Published: July 2021

Background: Perianal Paget’s disease (PPD) is a rare malignancy, often associated with an underlying adenocarcinoma and a poor prognosis. Case presentation: A 69-year-old female was presented with a history of perianal pruritus for 6 months and enlarged inguinal lymph nodes in the left side. Paget cells were confirmed by pathology after a wide excision of perianal skin. Radiotherapy was performed covering the bilateral inguinal lymphatic drainage area. Hepatic metastasis was found 8 months after surgery. Hepatic artery embolization (HAE) and high intensity focused ultrasound therapy (HIFU) were performed successively. However, hepatic metastasis happened again 3 months later. Ultrasound guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (PRFA) was carried out and various means of inspection could not identify the primary tumor. In the case of rapid progression of the tumor, we gave the patient chemotherapy regimens of XELOX. After four cycles’ chemotherapy, the tumor marker went down continuously and the hepatic metastasis stayed stable. Conclusions: Hepatic metastasis from perianal Paget's disease without identified underlying carcinoma may benefit from XELOX on the basis of adenocarcinoma.
Centralized colorectal cancer screening outreach and patient navigation for vulnerable populations in North Carolina: Study protocol for the SCORE randomized controlled trial
Authors: Malo Teri L. , Correa Sara Y. , Moore Alexis A. , Ferrari Renée M. , Leeman Jennifer , Brenner Alison T. , Wheeler Stephanie B. , Tan Xianming , Reuland Daniel , Consortium SCORE Study Protocol
Published: July 2021

BackgroundAlthough colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is effective in reducing CRC mortality, screening rates in vulnerable populations served by community health centers (CHCs) remain below national targets. CHCs in North Carolina are challenged to reach CRC screening targets as they tend to be under-resourced, have limited capacity to implement and sustain population health interventions, and typically operate independently from one another and from regional colonoscopy providers. The Scaling Colorectal Cancer Screening Through Outreach, Referral, and Engagement (SCORE) project is designed to address barriers to CRC screening in partnership with CHCs by implementing a multilevel intervention that includes centralized support infrastructure for mailed fecal immunochemical test (FIT) outreach and patient navigation to follow-up colonoscopy. This paper describes protocols for the SCORE implementation trial.MethodsWe will conduct a type 2 hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial that will assess effectiveness at increasing CRC screening and follow-up rates while also assessing implementation outcomes. The planned trial sample will include 4,000 CHC patients who are at average CRC risk and due for screening. Participants will be randomized 1:1 to receive either usual care or a multilevel intervention that includes mailed FIT outreach and patient navigation support to follow-up colonoscopy for those with abnormal FIT. The primary effectiveness outcome is completion of any CRC screening test at six months after randomization. We will also conduct a multilevel assessment of implementation outcomes and determinants.DiscussionThis hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial will evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of an intervention that provides centralized infrastructure for mailed FIT screening and patient navigation for CHCs that operate independently of other healthcare facilities. Findings from this research will enhance understanding of the effectiveness of a centralized approach and factors that determine successful implementation in vulnerable patient populations.Trial registrationThe trial was registered on May 28, 2020 at ClinicalTrials.gov (identifier NCT04406714).
Spatial Extent of Amyloid-β Levels and Associations with Alzheimer’s Disease Biomarkers
Authors: Ozlen Hazal , Binette Alexa Pichet , Köbe Theresa , Meyer Pierre-Francois , Breitner John , Poirier Judes , Villeneuve Sylvia
Published: July 2021

Objective: To investigate the biological and clinical correlates of Aβ spatial extent deposition levels in cognitively unimpaired older adults.Methods: We included cognitively unimpaired older adults from three cohorts, totalling 529 participants (PREVENT-AD, n=129; ADNI, n=400 and HABS, n=288) who underwent Aβ positron emission tomography (PET). We used Gaussian-mixture models to identify region-specific thresholds of Aβ positivity in seven brain regions prone to early Aβ accumulation. Individuals were classified as having “widespread” Aβ deposition if they were positive in all seven regions, “regional” Aβ deposition if they were positive in one to six regions, or Aβ negative if negative in all regions. We compared demographics, genetics, tau-PET binding, and cognitive performance and decline between the three groups.Results: In all cohorts, most participants with regional Aβ-PET binding did not meet the cohort-specific criteria for Aβ-positivity (79% for PREVENT-AD, 57% for ADNI, and 100% for HABS). Regional Aβ groups had normal baseline cognition and relatively normal tau-PET binding, but a greater proportion of APOE ε4 carriers, decreased CSF Aβ1-42 levels, and greater amount of longitudinal Aβ-PET binding accumulation (only available in ADNI and HABS) when compared with the Negative Aβ groups. Widespread Aβ groups had lower baseline cognitive performance (PREVENT-AD only), faster cognitive decline (all cohorts) and greater amount of longitudinal tau binding than the other groups (only available in ADNI and HABS). Conclusions: Individuals with regional Aβ deposition might be the best candidate for preventive trials since they do not yet have widespread tau and cognitive decline. Widespread levels of Aβ seem to be needed for tau spreading.
Utilization of Fecal Occult Blood Testing and Its Impact on Endoscopic Procedures in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Shahani Shobha , Jaydev FNU , Khatri Jaikumar , Kara Areeba
Published: July 2021

Objective: To gain insights on the impact of fecal occult blood tests, we evaluated inpatients on whom these tests were performed.Patients and Methods: This single center, retrospective study was conducted at a large, academic, tertiary care center. Between Jan 1, 2016-Dec 31, 2017, inpatients who developed a drop in hemoglobin ≥2 grams/dL and had an FOBT were identified. Further data was extracted on a random selection of half of these patients. Patients were categorized as having an overt GI bleed (symptoms of melena, hematochezia, or hematemesis) or not.Results: Over the study period 6,310 patients developed a hemoglobin drop of ≥2 grams/dL. Of these 817 (12.9%) had an FOBT and we reviewed 407 (49.8%) randomly selected patients from this group. Those with missing FOBT results (n=13) were excluded, leaving 394 included in the final analysis. The mean age was 62.7 years with 211 females (53.7%). FOBTs were performed in 34.6% of patients despite the presence of overt GI bleeding. In patients without overt GI bleeding, the proportion of patients who underwent endoscopic procedures was higher in those with a positive FOBT than those with negative FOBT (40.4% vs 13.2%, p < .00001). There were no differences in rates of endoscopic evaluation in patients with overt GI bleeding based on FOBT results.Conclusions: FOBTs continue to be utilized in inpatient settings including in those presenting with overt GI bleeding. In the absence of overt GI bleeding, positive results may drive endoscopic evaluation.
Frost Avoidance: Sodium Alginate + CaCl2 Can Postpone Flowering of ‘Kawanakajima Hakuto’ Peach Trees
Authors: Park Yeonju , Shin Hyunsuk
Published: July 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate whether treatment with sodium alginate and CaCl2 treatment in the 2nd (swollen bud) blooming stage could delay peach flowers as a strategy to avoid frost. Regarding the expression rate at the 3rd (calyx green) stage, the control treatment (CT, distilled water) showed a sharp increase from 8 days after treatments (DAT), reaching the maximum at 14 DAT. However, the 5AG group (5% sodium alginate + 100 mM CaCl2) and the 7AG group (7% sodium alginate + 100 mM CaCl2) recorded the maximum expression rate at 17 DAT. After the maximum expression, CT showed a sharply diminishing trend, whereas 5AG and 7AG showed gentle decreases. At the 4th (calyx red) stage, CT, 5AG, and 7AG reached the peak expression at 20 DAT (43.5%, 31.9%, and 40.2%, respectively). However, maximum expression levels of all treatments were below ~50%. The 5th (first pink) stage was first expressed in all treatments when the expression rate at the 4th stage peaked in all groups at 20 DAT. Maximum expression was 50.7% in CT, 33.7% in 5AG, and 49.2% in 7AG. This tendency was similar to that at the 4th stage. Particularly, expression in 5AG diminished more slowly than that in CT and 7AG at 3rd, 4th, and 5th stages. CT group bloomed first at 20 DAT, reaching full bloom at 81.4%, ahead of AG treatments at 28 DAT, while 7AG and 5AG groups bloomed fully at 34 and 37 DAT, respectively. Our results suggest that 5AG treatment is suitable to delay peach flowering when phenological development of the flower buds reaches the 2nd stage.
Tauber antegrade sclerotherapy: the importance of phlebography in choosing the correct vein.
Authors: Guida Edoardo , Duci Miriam , Boscarelli Alessandro , Ceschiutti Giulia , Schleef Jurgen
Published: July 2021

Tauber antegrade sclerotherapy can be considered an established procedure for the treatment of varicocele in paediatric age. Herein, we share our experience with this technique and its tricks. The choice of the spermatic vein should be very accurate during the Tauber procedure, and a correct intraoperative phlebography is mandatory to avoid complications.
Crystal structure and Biological evolution of 5-bromothiophene based 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2-(1H)-thi(ones)
Authors: Ramkumar Venkatachalam , Gardas Ramesh , Banerjee Sourav , Patel Hitendra , Sharma Mayank , Vala Ruturajsinh , Rajani Dhanji
Published: July 2021

Herein, Solvent-free synthesis of 5-bromothiophene based 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2-(1H)-thi(ones) was explored. The main advantages of this study are that pure product comes in hand with easy workup and without using any separation technique, a good amount of yield, and formation of product in crude form. We developed a single crystal of 4c, and we analysed crystal structure by Hirshfeld surfaces analysis. All the synthesised compounds were screened for antifungal and antibacterial assay. Among all synthesised compounds, 4a, 4b and 4j have potent antibacterial activity. While 4f, 4g, 4h and 4i show good antifungal activity among all synthesised compounds. We also carried out ADMET prediction for the 4(a-j), and calculated data show that all the compounds have prominent drug-like nature.
Diversity and Geographic Distribution of Dog Tick Species In Sri Lanka and The Life Cycle of Brown Dog Tick, Rhipicephalus Sanguineus Under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Rajakaruna Rupika Subashini
Published: July 2021

Background
Tick infestations and canine tick-borne diseases have become a major emerging health concern of dogs in Sri Lanka. Information about tick species infesting dogs and their geographic distribution in Sri Lanka is largely unknown.
Methods
An island-wide, cross-sectional survey of tick species infesting the domestic dog was carried out, and the life cycle of the major dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus was studied under laboratory conditions.
Results
A total of 3,026 ticks were collected from 1,219 dogs of different breeds in all 25 districts in the three climatic zones: Wet, Dry, and Intermediate zones. Eight species in five genera were identified: R. sanguineus (63.4%), Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides (22.0%), Haemaphysalis bispinosa (12.5%), Haemaphysalis intermedia (0.9%), Haemaphysalis turturis (0.6%), Amblyoma integrum (0.4%), Dermacentor auratus (0.2%) and Hyalomma sp (0.06%). The brown dog tick, R. sanguineus was the dominant species in the Dry and Wet zones, while R. haemaphysaloides was the dominant species in the Intermediate zone. Species diversity (presented as Shannon diversity index H) in the three was 1.135, 1.021and 0.849 in Intermediate, Dry and Wet zones, respectively. Adults formed 94.7% with a significantly higher number of females, and the rest were nymphs. Rhipicephalus sanguineus preferred the anterior side of the host body, specifically the inner and outer side of the ear. In contrast, R. haemaphysaloides preferred the posterior side, mainly the fore and hind limbs. The three-host life cycle of R. sanguineus was completed within 70–126 days, all three stages successfully fed on the New Zealand white rabbits under laboratory conditions. The mean REI and RFI were 50.8 ± 9.69 and 9.1 ± 5.01, respectively. Larger females had higher reproductive success.
Conclusion
The dominant dog tick species and the species diversity varied in different climatic regions of Sri Lanka. Information on diversity, distribution and life cycle parameters is fundamental for studies of canine tick-borne infections, zoonoses, and their epidemiology.
Complete Genome Sequence of the First Chrysovirus From the Phytopathogenic Fungus Alternaria Solani on Potato in China
Authors: Hu Chenghui , Li Siwei , Wu Chunyan , Mi Yiran , Cai Qingnian , Zhou Tao , Zhao Can , Wu Xuehong
Published: July 2021

The full genome of a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) mycovirus, which was isolated from Alternaria solani strain DT-10 causing potato foliar disease and designated as Alternaria solani chrysovirus 1 (AsCV1), consisted of four dsRNA segments (dsRNA 1–4) with the length of 3600 bp, 3128 bp, 2996 bp, and 2714 bp, respectively. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp, 1084 amino acids (aa)), putative capsid protein (905 aa), Alphachryso-P3 (835 aa), and Alphachryso-P4 (729 aa) were encoded by dsRNA1, dsRNA2, dsRNA3, and dsRNA4, respectively, which had the highest identities of 41.77%-72.38% to the counterparts of Helminthosporium victoriae virus 145S (HvV145S) in the genus Alphachrysovirus of the family Chrysoviridae. Moreover, the 5′-untranslated regions (UTRs) with several unique inserts (3–37 bp) and deletions (5–64 bp) of AsCV1 dsRNA 1–4 shared 51.65%-68.01% identities to those of HvV145S. Phylogenetic analysis of RdRp suggested that AsCV1 clustered the most closely with HvV145S. Based on the characteristics of distinct host, low identities of encoded proteins, special traits in 5′-UTRs of dsRNA 1–4, and phylogenetic analysis of RdRp, AsCV1 was confirmed to be a new species in the genus Alphachrysovirus. To our best knowledge, this is the first alphachrysovirus identified from phytopathogenic A. solani.
Impact of Railroad Transport on Physical and Chemical Properties of Soils in the Railway Junction Zduńska Wola – Karsznice (Central Poland)
Authors: Tomczyk-Wydrych Ilona , Świercz Anna
Published: July 2021

Railway operations and the accompanying infrastructure are responsible for the emission of pollutants and toxic substances that adversely affect both the atmospheric air, soil and the groundwater environment. The main groups include such compounds as: trace metals and aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH). Contamination of the soil and water environment with harmful substances can be associated with many activities carried out on the railway. The problem is particularly relevant to liquid fuel loading and refuelling facilities as well as to increased traffic at railway junctions.
When Giants Talk; Robotic Dialog During Thoracolumbar and Sacral Surgery
Authors: Schroeder Josh E , Houri Saadit , Weil Yoram A , Liebergall Meir , Moshioff Rami , Kaplan Leon
Published: July 2021

Background: First spinal trauma patients treated in a specialized hybrid operating room (OR) using two robotic systems communicating during surgery.Methods: Retrospective review of patients with thoracolumbar or sacral fractures who underwent surgical fixation between Jan 2017 to Jan 2020 with robotic-guided percutaneous pedicle screw insertion in the specialized hybrid OR with Robotic flat panel 3D C-arm (ArtisZeego) for intraoperative interventional imaging connected with the robotic-guidance platform Renaissance (Mazor Robotics).Results: Twenty eight surgeries were performed in 27 patients; 23 with traumatic spinal fractures, 4 with multi-level thoracolumbar compression fractures due to severe osteoporosis. Average patient age 49 (range 12-86). Average radiation exposure time 40sec (range 12-114 sec). Average radiation exposure dose 11,584±SD uGym2 (range 4,454- 58,959). Lumber levels operated on were between T5 and S2 (shortest three vertebras and longest eight vertebras). 235 (range 5-11) trajectories were performed. All trajectories were accurate in all cases percutaneous pedicle screws placement was correct, without breach noted at the pedicle in any of the cases. No major complications reported. In all cases, follow-up x-rays showed adequate fracture reduction with restoration.Conclusions: Merging of surgical robotics technologies increases patient safety and surgeon and patient confidence in percutaneous spine traumatic procedures.
No Tendencies of Personality Traits in Blood Groups: a cross-sectional study conducted on Bangladeshi people.
Authors: Rupok Tahsin Ahmed , Dey Sunandan , Bostami Bayezid
Published: July 2021

No studies to date came up with fruitful consequences regarding if or not there is a relationship between blood groups and personality traits rather providing most conflicting, floundering, discrete, equivocal outcomes. Traditionally, Japanese and Korean people support the conception that there are natural inclinations of personality traits in blood groups. Our study aims to explore the rationality of this conception that personality traits and blood groups are interrelated. However, responses of the participants were collected using 50 items big-five factor personality inventory developed by Goldberg: Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism, Conscientiousness, Intellect (Openness to experience). A two way multivariate analysis (MANOVA) was performed on total 148 participants including 85 males and 65 females using IBM SPSS Statistics version 26. MANOVA results revealed that neither the significant main effect of blood groups [F (15,414) = 1.102, p > 0.05] nor had the significant interaction effect of blood groups and gender [F (15,414) = 1.111, p > 0.05] on the combined dependent variables. But this study found significant main effect of gender on the combined dependent variables [F (5,136) = 4.520, p = 0.001, (1-β) = 0.967, η2 = 0.143].This present study does not support the idea that there is significant relationship between blood groups and personality traits. But the idea that male personality significantly differs from female personality is well-supported by this study.
Medidas de educação em saúde sobre infecções sexualmente adquiridas para escolares do ensino médio
Authors: SOUZA Daniela Raguer Valadão de , CARVALHO Ruaan Oliveira , RAMOS Willamis Tenório , PEIXOTO Magna Galvão , MANZOLI Gabrielle Novais , LIMA Deison Soares de
Published: July 2021

As Infecções Sexualmente Transmissíveis (IST) são um problema de saúde pública mundial. No Brasil, as IST atingem todas as faixas etárias, em especial, os adolescentes. O objetivo do trabalho é relatar o processo de construção de uma intervenção de educação em saúde sobre IST, com público alvo os escolares do ensino médio do município de Lagarto, SE. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo relato de experiência. Participaram da construção da intervenção 40 extensionistas, sendo 12 membros executores e 28 monitores dos cursos da área da saúde. Além disso, foram construídas 12 estações, abordando: HIV/AIDS, Hepatite, Sífilis, Gonorréia, HTLV-1, Herpes, Candidíase, HPV/Cancro, Vaginite Bacteriana, Sistema Reprodutor Masculino/Feminino, Comodidades AIDS e Tricomonas. O material dissolvido possibilitará, aos escolares, embasamento de qualidade científica que poderão norteá-los nas decisões que contemplem a temática das IST.
Pristionchus trametes n. sp. (Diplogastridae) isolated from the mushroom Trametes orientalis in Kyoto, Japan
Authors: Kanzaki Natsumi , Hamaguchi Keiko
Published: July 2021

A new species of Pristionchus was isolated from fruiting bodies of the wood-decaying fungus Trametes orientalis collected from Kyoto, Japan. Attempts to culture it using bacteria, yeast, and freeze-killed wax moth larvae as food or substrate failed. The eurystomatous form of the species was not found in the collected material, and the species is typologically characterized by: its ‘small’ stoma with thin, membrane-like cheilostomatal plates, a small triangular right subventral tooth, thorn-like dorsal tooth, and small left subventral denticles; a short, blunt male tail spike; and a short, conical female tail. Although the posterior probability support was not high (66%), phylogenetic analysis of both small and large ribosomal RNA gene subunits suggests that the species is closely related to P. elegans and P. bucculentus. The new species can be distinguished from those two by its diagnostic characters comprising the stomatal morphology and male and female tail characters.
Genome sequence of the coffee root-knot nematode Meloidogyne exigua
Authors: Thi Phan Ngan , Besnard Guillaume , Ouazahrou Rania , Sánchez William Solano , Gil Lisa , Manzi Sophie , Bellafiore Stéphane
Published: July 2021

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) cause serious damages on most crops. Here, we report a high-quality genome sequence of Meloidogyne exigua (population Mex1, Costa Rica), a major pathogen of coffee. Its mitogenome (20,974 bp) was first assembled and annotated. The nuclear genome was then constructed consisting of 206 contigs, with an N50 length of 1.89 Mb and a total assembly length of 42.1 Mb.
Discourse of Gender Asymmetry in Social Media: methodology of research
Authors: Oleshkova A. M.
Published: July 2021

The paper highlights the problem of gender stereotypes and gender stratification and provides the description of constructionism and discourse analysis as the methodological foundations of gender studies. Gender is viewed as both a social construct and discursive practice. The author proposes a specific methodology for discourse analysis that takes into account the specifics of social media. The methods of research include analysis of linguistic data, processed through the lens of constructionist analysis, discourse and content analysis. The author grounds the study on M. Foucault’s approach that influenced discursive and constructionist studies. The features of the articulation of the topic are shown based on materials of the social network VKontakte. The author reveals the discursive techniques, with the help of which indicates the position and role of the subject. In social networks, unlike other media discourses, the problem of gender relations is expressed exaggeratedly. With the traditional spectrum of plots for stereotyping, the network newspeak is prone to use language play and genre fusion. Hence, the polar features of gender discourse in the network space should be noted: the coexistence of aggressive orthodox patriarchal judgments with sarcastic rethinking of gender roles and the manifestation of egalitarianism in the interpretation of masculinity and femininity. Gender discourse is represented as an element of ideological discourse that the author designates as modern newspeak, which is characterized by the ability to politicize any aspect of culture and strive for domination.
Transformation of the Concept of Soft Power in the Political Discourse of China
Authors: Yu Lan
Published: July 2021

The concept of “soft power”, which has entered the official lexicon of the Chinese Communist Party, has American roots. At the heart of Joseph Nye’s concept is a call for flexible use of the “intangible power resources” of culture and political ideals to influence the behavior of people in other countries. For the Chinese power groups, Nye’s concept looked like a modern development of the “Art of War” reasoning, so J. Nye’s idea received a deep cross-cultural resonance in China.

The article presents two main aspects of the research carried out by the author of the article on the influence of the concept of “soft power” in the political process. Firstly, the influence of the concept of “soft power” on the political process: the fourth generation of Chinese leaders, led by President of the People’s Republic of China Hu Jintao, focused on soft power as the basis for the strategy of intercultural communication; Xi Jinping introduces the principle of cultural confidence, including values in the political discourse of modern China in a new era. This defines a new task of “soft power”. Secondly, “soft power” as a tool of political communication: the culture and ideology of Confucianism has a significant influence on the political process communication of the PRC. In these conditions, the ideology of the PRC adapts and uses Confucian concepts as a brand of intercultural communication and a kind of ideological bridge that can serve to ensure the preservation of national identity, form a positive image of the state and strengthen the country’s international position, and will become the basis for internal cohesion. Hence the authorities actively work to adapt “soft power” to the tasks of modern domestic and foreign policy. The studies carried out on this topic have shown that the concept of “soft power” of the PRC is a powerful instrument of the political culture of the PRC and a viable strategy of intercultural communication.
COVID-19 discourse in political, research and media agenda (on the example of Greece)
Authors: Toropova A. A.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of the article is to analyze the political and scientific discourses in Greece by comparing various narratives of the period of the onset and active phase of the coronavirus pandemic, the relationship between objective and media reality, the ability of recipients to reflect. This article highlights the peculiarities of carrying out a government line adapted to the new conditions and the reaction of Greek sociological thought and the media to the pandemic. At the beginning of the pandemic, the experience of Greece was recognized by the international community as positive in the fight against the new coronavirus infection and was designated as a kind of «success story». Indeed, the Greek government was one of the first in the world to take harsh preventive measures. The academic community also responded quickly to the changed socio-political agenda. As a method, a content analysis of scientific articles, Internet publications, statistical data, as well as statements of key figures in political and scientific discourses was carried out. The conclusion is made about the success of the communication campaign on the part of the government and the positive attitude of the Greek society in the context of precedent changes.
Regulatory Legal Aspects of State and Municipal Governance in the Sphere of Information and Psychological Security of Citizens
Authors: Nechaeva I. I. , Shevchenko A. N.
Published: July 2021

The modern information environment is a complex social structure. The information that surrounds us every second can have both a fruitful influence, potentially leading to the development of the individual and society, and a negative one, which is aimed at the destruction of systems and humans. In modern society with its rapidly growing technical capabilities, volumes of produced and consumed information, the risks of information impact extend both to technical aspects of security and psychological and ideological ones. In this regard, the task of countering information threats at all levels is becoming a qualitatively new and important task. Russian legislation pays attention to all key areas of information security of society, but does not separate this concept by spheres of influence, examining the issue comprehensively. In the presented article, attention is paid to the analysis of the regulatory framework in terms of establishing the foundations of federal policy in the field of state development and in the field of preventing destabilizing information activity from the standpoint of external psychological information impact.
Balance of private and public in the use of personal data in the digital network space
Authors: Zotov V. V. , Gubanov A. V.
Published: July 2021

The relevance of the study is determined by the need to ensure the comprehensive protection of citizens’ personal data, since their disclosure can lead to significant reputational or financial damage. In this context, the analysis of the boundaries of public and private in public consciousness takes on a special meaning. In a mass and expert survey conducted on this issue, it was found that almost 2/3 of citizens were faced with the misuse of confidential information on the Internet. But most experts and participants in the mass survey are aware that Internet sites, social networks and search engines can collect data for web analytics. At the same time, most participants in the study consider it possible to transmit personal data to the authorities in a generalized form for making managerial decisions about the place of residence, age, marital situation, education and gender; the most closed for analysis were information on purchases and spending, geolocation and health. The privacy regime in social networks depends on the level of publicity of a person: for state employees, members of parties and public associations, representatives of science and education, it is higher than for ordinary citizens (for them it depends on knowledge of such a possibility of setting social networks). Most experts and ordinary citizens supported the possibility of introducing a ban on the disclosure on the Internet and social networks of information about service for military and police personnel, while similar measures are considered unacceptable for government officials, municipal employees, representatives of the public sector and deputies; only regarding judges, the opinion of the population and experts did not coincide: the former consider not acceptable, and the latter – possible. It can be assumed that the digitalization of society does not aggravate the problem of demarcation of private and public. However, a key tool for distinguishing between personal and public in the media space is the creation of a special regulatory framework.
On user roles and fragmentation of the global network
Authors: Kirillina N. V.
Published: July 2021

The paper represents a critical analysis of interrelated processes: transformation of the user's role as direct subject of communication and fragmentation of the environment of interaction. The choice of the topic is conditioned by (1) the emergence of national network segments, which has recently been quite actively discussed in the context of blocking sites and VPN services as a measure for the protection of information security, and (2) users switching from the consumption of large media to isolated communities and platforms. The latter is associated, in addition to the loss of trust in major media, with deeper changes in the nature of information consumption and a change in the user's role: the network becomes a space of dialogue, where the very fact and quality of its continuation depends on the user's choice and his interpretation. According to the results of the study, it is shown that, firstly, due to the heterogeneity of the network in different segments and in different contexts, users may select messages untypical for other segments; secondly, interactive discourse predetermines the users’ choice from the array of information of those messages that seem «close» to users on the basis of their personal experience, psycho-emotional state, socio-cultural characteristics. The changes that a unit of information undergoes in a certain environment are determined by the characteristics of the environment, including sociocultural ones – they fill messages with symbolic content and determine their viability / potential to further dissemination in media space.
The practice of communication management in the field of public administration (on the example of Leningrad Region)
Authors: Makarov D. V.
Published: July 2021

The manuscript summarizes the experience of communication management in the field of public administration on the example of the Leningrad region. The author analyzes the changes associated with the transition to the information society and the ongoing processes in the organization of information support, due to the need for structural adaptation to these changes. In the paper, the author represents the results of his study and describes various aspects of the use of electronic and digital technologies in the information management system, that shows the need for the development of an effective communication policy in other regions of Russia. The transformation of the methods and mechanisms for the formation of political space, as well as the forms of interaction between the state and civil society is typical for modern society. While the idea of information as a commodity precedes the gradual transformation of the information society, the concept of value in relation to information is taking on a revolutionary meaning through new information and communication technologies.