bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plotting the equilibrium cerium content in metal under the slag of the CaO-SiO2-Ce2O3-15%Al2O3-8%MgO system
Authors:   Institute of Metallurgy of the UB of the RAS, Babenco Anatoly A. , Smirnov Leonid A. ,   Institute of Metallurgy of the UB of the RAS, Upolovnikova Alena G. ,   Institute of Metallurgy of the UB of the RAS, Mikhailova Lyudmila Yu. ,   Institute of Metallurgy of the UB of the RAS
Published: March 2021

Using the HSC 6.1 Chemistry (Outokumpu) software package in combination with simplex-lattice planning, we performed thermodynamic modeling of the equilibrium cerium content in a metal containing 0.06% C, 0.25 Si, 0.05% Al (in this expression and further on the text indicates mass%), under the slag of the CaO – SiO2 – Ce2O3 – 15% Al2O3 – 8% MgO system in a wide range of chemical composition at temperatures of 1550 °C and 1650 °C. For each temperature, adequate mathematical models have been obtained in the form of a reduced polynomial of degree III, describing the equilibrium content of cerium in the metal depending on the composition of the slag. The results of mathematical modeling are presented graphically in the form of diagrams of the composition – the equilibrium content of cerium. A marked effect of slag basicity on the distribution of cerium is noted. An increase in slag basicity from 2 to 5 at a temperature of 1550 °C leads to an increase in the equilibrium cerium content in the metal from 0.1 to 7 ppm, i.e. the increase in slag basicity favorably affects the development of cerium recovery process. An increase in metal temperature has a positive effect on cerium recovery. As the temperature rises to 1650 °C, the equilibrium cerium content in the metal increases on average from 0.3 to 10 ppm. In the diagrams of the chemical composition of slags containing 56-61% CaO, 12-14% SiO2 and 15% Al2O3 in the temperature range of 1550 and 1650 °C, we can expect a concentration of cerium in the metal at a level of 7-10 ppm at a content of 4% to 7% Ce2O3 in the original slag. The positive effect of the basicity of the formed slag in the studied range of chemical composition on the cerium reduction process is explained from the standpoint of the phase composition of the slag and the thermodynamics of cerium reduction reactions.
New technology to obtain 1-methyl-5-pnenyl-7-chloro- 1,3-dihydro-2H-[1,4]-benzodiazepine-2-one
Authors:   Federal Research and Production Center ", Lyukshenko Natalya I. ,   Altai", Nikitin Roman G. ,   Federal Research and Production Center "Altai", Morozhenko Yury V. ,   Federal Research and Production Center "Altai"
Published: March 2021

At present, benzodiazepine derivatives being used widely, they continue to occupy a leading position among the drugs of the anxiolytic group. Most anxiolytics of the benzodiazepine structure are derivatives of 1,4-benzodiazepine. The basis of the chemical benzodiazepine structure consists of a benzene ring connected to a seven-membered heterocyclic ring containing two nitrogen atoms (diazepine) at positions 1 and 4. All the benzodiazepine derivatives used in the clinic also have a second benzene ring attached to carbon. The presence of a halogen or a nitro group is essential to display its activity. Diazepam (1-methyl-5-phenyl-7-chloro-1,3-dihydro-2H- [1,4] benzodiazepin-2-one) is in the list of necessary and important medicinal products. The urgent issue is the development of a new method to synthesize 1-methyl-5-phenyl-7-chloro-1,3-dihydro-2H-[1,4]-benzodiazepines-2-one that would allow producing the drug in the required quantities and for mass consumption. The search for possible effective ways of synthesizing 1-methyl-5-phenyl-7-chlorine-1,3-dihydro-2H-[1,4]-benzodiazepines-2-one for manufacturing application is of great scientific and practical interest. The purpose of our work is to search for a rational method to synthesize the target product, experimental study of the chemical processes to develop the most optimal methods to produce the product. The technology to produce 1-methyl-5-phenyl-7-chlor-1,3-dihydro-2H-[1,4]-benzodiazepine-2-one on an industrial scale was developed. The synthesis of 2-benzoyl-2',4-dichloro-N-methylacetanilide by condensation of 2-methylamine-5-chlorobenzophenone with chloracetyl chloride in carbon tetrachloride without further treatment of the reaction mass with water and sodium carbonate was developed. The highest yield of 1-methyl-5-phenyl-7-chlorine-1,3-dihydro-2H-[1,4]-benzodiazepines-2-one was shown to be obtained if the cyclization reaction is carried out in isopropyl alcohol. The reaction mixture composition in interaction of 2-benzoyl- 2',4 -dichloro-N-methylacetanilide with urotropin plays the defining role in the formation of the target product.
Comparative evaluation of methods for determining the resistance of materials to penetration of microbial suspensions
Authors:   Kazan National Research Technological University, Gorshkova Ekaterina S. , Vdovina Tatiana V. ,   Kazan National Research Technological University
Published: March 2021

A comparative assessment of the currently used methods for determining the resistance of materials to the penetration of microbial suspensions is carried out. The essence of the analyzed methods consists in comparing the number of colonies of microorganisms grown through the test sample with the number of colonies of microorganisms grown on control samples. To standardize the materials, the method GOST standard 12.4.136-84 of 04/01/1990, of 01/04/1990 “Occupational safety standards system. Personal protective equipment, a method for determining the permeability of microorganisms ", establish a protection class; method ISO 22610: 2006 (R) “Surgical sheets, gowns and suits for clean rooms for patients, medical personnel and equipment used as medical devices, test method for determining the resistance to penetration of wet bacterial environments” determines the total penetration coefficient indicated in addition to the usual labeling of medical materials, and may be the interest for products to enter the international market. The methods described by researchers Ransjo U., Hambraeus A., Blom A.W., Estela C.M., Bowker K.E., MacGowan A.P., Hardy J., take place in laboratory tests for comparative studies. As a test culture was used Bacillus subtilis. Nonwovens were analyzed: three-layer Medicase RKV, Belgium and Softess Dupon, USA. The results of assessing the permeability of materials by the microbial suspension of Bacillus subtilis, obtained by various methods, correlate with each other. Medicase RKV was found to have poor barrier properties and is not resistant to microbial entry. The material Softess Dupon has good barrier properties and is relatively resistant to the penetration of microorganisms: it has a 5th grade of protection, a bacterial threat of T – 60, a coefficient of penetration through the barrier of Cvp – 0.75, a bacterial index lv – 5.67, characterized by meager growth of microorganisms upon contact of the material with bacteria for 15, 30, 60 minutes and excessive growth – upon contact for 90 minutes.
The influence of technological additives and peroxides on the properties of rubber mixtures based on ethylene propylene caoutchouc
Authors:   Chuvash State University  of  I.N. Ulyanov, Ushmarin Nikolay F. , Tsareva Lyudmila Yu. ,   Chuvash State University  of  I.N. Ulyanov, Konnova Ksenia A. ,   . Chuvash State University  of  I.N. Ulyanov, Yakimova Maria V. ,   Chuvash State University  of  I.N. Ulyanov, Koltsov Nikolay I. ,   Chuvash State University  of  I.N. Ulyanov
Published: March 2021

The article investigates the influence of technological additives and peroxides on the properties of two rubber mixtures based on ethylene-propylene caoutchouc of marking SKEPT-40. The main properties were: rheometric (maximum and minimum torques; start, optimum and maximum vulcanization rates; maximum vulcanization rates), physical and mechanical (conditional tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness) and operational (changes in conditional strength at tensile, elongation at break and hardness after aging in air). The resistance of rubbers to the action of high temperatures by methods of differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis was studied. As technological additives, MA-L22, Struktol WS180, Zincolet BB 222 and Struktol A89 were used. Vulcanizing agents were peroxides: Novoperox BP-40, Percodox BC-FF, Dicumyl Peroxide (DK), Chemanox PX1 and Dicumyl Peroxide DCP 99. The studies were carried out for two rubbers, one of which is intended for the manufacture of molded products, and the second rubber – for sealing profiles. It was shown that the technological additive Zincolet BB 222 increases the vulcanization rate of rubber mixture for molded products. All technological additives used have practically no effect on the conditional tensile strength and hardness vulcanizates of molded products, increasing their elongation at break. The smallest changes in the physical and mechanical properties are characterized by the vulcanizate, which contains the technological additive Zincolet BB 222. Technological additives practically do not affect the process of vulcanization of the rubber mixture and slightly affect the process of destruction of rubber during aging. Of the investigated technological additives Zincolet BB 222 is more conducive to improving the thermal properties of rubber. It has been established that Novoperox BP-40 and Chemanox PX1 peroxides increase the rate of vulcanization of the rubber mixture for sealing profiles. For vulcanizates of this rubber mixture, when Novoperox BP-40 and Chemanox PX1 is replaced with other peroxides, a decrease in the conditional tensile strength, hardness and an increase in the elongation at break are observed. With aging in air, changes in the physicomechanical properties of the vulcanizates of the rubber mixture variants containing Novoperox BP-40 and Chemanox PX1 are insignificant and close to each other.
Improving the properties of activated carbons based on organoplastics by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide (KOH)
Authors:   D. Mendeleev University of Сhemical Тechnology of Russia, Vu Kim Long , Klushin Vitaly N. ,   D. Mendeleev University of Сhemical Тechnology of Russia, Nistratov Alexey V. ,   D. Mendeleev University of Сhemical Тechnology of Russia, Thi Tho Hoang ,   D. Mendeleev University of Сhemical Тechnology of Russia, Thi Bich Ngoc Tran ,   D. Mendeleev University of Сhemical Тechnology of Russia
Published: March 2021

The possibility of processing wastes based on organoplastics generated at aviation enterprises into activated carbons by chemical activation using potassium hydroxide has been investigated. Powdered and granular activated carbons with a porous structure, characterized by the predominance of micropores or mesopores, are obtained that are superior in many respects to both adsorbents based on organoplastics and most industrial active carbons. The specific surface area of micropores of the obtained granular activated carbons is 1716 m2/g, the absorption capacity is 365 mg/g for methylene blue and 1180 mg/g for iodine. The obtained granular activated carbons are characterized by a stable adsorption value of n-butanol (about 400 mg/g) during three successive adsorption-regeneration cycles. Desorption at 120±5 °C provides an almost complete restoration of the activity of this absorber, fundamentally allowing its multiple use in this technology. It is shown in the work that granular activated carbons of very high quality can be obtained by chemical activation with potassium hydroxide based on organoplastics wastes, the only drawback of which is, in essence, the relatively low (at 60%) abrasion resistance. The possibility of improving the quality properties of granular activated carbons by adding a small amount of carbon fiber (1% of the mass) as a reinforcing component in the process of granulation to raw paste was investigated. The specified method can significantly increase the strength of the granules in compression (about 3 times), while the adsorption properties of activated carbon are practically unchanged. The properties described above allow us to conclude that the obtained granular activated carbon is effective and highly competitive.
Peran UMKM Dalam Mengurangi Tingkat Pengangguran Masyarakat dan Strategi UMKM Ditengah Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Ilmi Nida Alfi Nur
Published: March 2021

ABSTRACT
This paper tries to explain and describe the position of UMKM in the Kepuh, Boyolangu Village, Banyuwangi, as an effort to reduce the unemployment rate, especially in the lower middle class and to see how the strategy of the UMKM founders in maintaining their position in all conditions. So it is hoped that readers can find out and analyze UMKM within the scope of the region as an effort to minimize unemployment and increase living standards. This paper use qualitative research method with a qualitative descriptive approach. Establishing UMKM is certainly not an easy thing, because the large number of workers does not guarantee UMKM, who is determined by the appropriate expertise and strategy. In addition, the Government has not been maximally perfect in overcoming problems and financial assistance for community UMKM which in reality is able to absorb many new workers, and has an impact on reducing the unemployment rate.
Strengthening Student Engagement: How Student Hone Their Soft Skill Along Online Learning During Covid-19 Pandemic?
Authors: Suryaningsih Valeny
Published: March 2021

The objective of this research is to know how student hone their soft skill along online learning during Covid-19 pandemic. It is a descriptive research, applied through interview and questionnaire survey among 15 students taken Leadership Class, Academic Year of 2020-2021. This study has discovered by providing group discussion session, lecturer has generated enthusiasm for learning and student’s interaction during online learning. To enhance students’ soft skill along online learning, it is found by optimizing the usage of media and method of learning; up to date SLP, integrated the LMS with Whatsapp function through Collaborative Learning. Students are schooled by submitting mind mapping sub-subject task, class discussion, FGD team discussion, PPT submission and oral presentation in specific time limit every meeting. It is provided from up to date case studies in every meeting that help students in providing the practitioner's view, hone critical thinking, presentation and public speaking skills.
INTERETHNIC ASSOCIATIONS OF INCREASED HEART RATE AS A FACTOR OF CARDIOVASCULAR RISK. PART 2: GENETIC MARKERS
Authors: Mulerova T. A. , Ogarkov M. Yu.
Published: March 2021

Purpose.To study the genetic aspects of increased heart rate (HR) in representatives of various ethnic groups living in Mountain Shoria.Material and Methods.The study involved residents of the villages of Mountain Shoria aged 18 years and older. Included are 901 people – representatives of indigenous nationality (Shors), 408 people – of nonindigenous nationality. The groups did not differ by gender and age. The analysis was carried out depending on the increased level of heart rate (over 80 beats/min). Typing of polymorphic sites of theACE(I/D, rs4340),ADRB1(p.145A> G, Ser49Gly, rs1801252),ADRA2B(I/D, rs28365031),MTHFR(c.677C> T, Ala222Val, rs1801133) andNOS3(VNTR, 4b/4a) was carried out using polymerase chain reaction. The association of different genotypes with heart rates above 80 beats/min was judged by the odds ratio in five inheritance models (codominant, dominant, recessive, overdominant and log-additive), and its 95% confidence interval was calculated.Results.Ethnic features of the prevalence of increased heart rate have been established depending on the polymorphism of candidate genes involved in the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension. The respondents of the indigenous ethnic group had a high probability of developing tachycardia determined by the carriage of the C/T genotype of theMTHFRgene according to an overdominant type of inheritance [OR = 2.46]. Allele D of theACEgene determined the tendency to the development of this pathology according to the recessive type of inheritance [OR = 1.91]. However, among young people and men, carriage of a prognostically unfavorable D/D genotype of this gene was associated with a high risk of increased heart rate [OR = 3.34] and [OR = 4.62], respectively. In a cohort of non-indigenous nationality, the heterozygous genotype I/D of theACEgene determined the likelihood of tachycardia by an overdominant type of inheritance [OR = 2.08].Conclusions.Most epidemiological studies show a significant difference in the contribution of the studied polymorphisms to the appearance of increased heart rate for various ethnic groups. For a small population of Mountain Shoria, genetic features of the development of tachycardia have been established. In this regard, it is advisable to take into account national characteristics when determining individual risk, and apply personalization to correction programs.
Las calles. Un estudio sobre Santiago de Chile
Authors: Aguilera Carolina
Published: March 2021

Reseña del libro Las calles. Un estudio sobre Santiago de Chile. Santiago: Lom Ediciones, 2019.
Impuestos a la renta de personas en Chile: simulaciones siguiendo esquemas de otros países OCDE
Authors: Fuentes Adolfo , Vergara Rodrigo
Published: March 2021

Es posible que Chile tenga que elevar a mediano plazo su carga tributaria para hacer frente a las mayores demandas sociales. La carga tributaria de Chile es alrededor de 3 puntos porcentuales del PIB inferior a la que tenían en promedio los países de la OCDE cuando alcanzaron nuestro PIB per cápita. El objetivo de este documento es explorar qué implica, en términos de recaudación y distribución del ingreso, el transitar hacia una estructura de impuesto al ingreso personal más parecida a la que tienen Australia, Nueva Zelanda, España y Noruega. Se concluye, en primer lugar, que de aplicarse la estructura tributaria de estos países a Chile, considerando el tipo de cambio nominal bilateral para los distintos tramos de ingreso, la mayor recaudación fluctuaría entre 1,5% del PIB para la estructura de Australia hasta 4,7% del PIB en el caso de España. Si se ajustan las tablas de ingreso a tipo de cambio corregido por PPC, el rango va entre 3% del PIB para la estructura de Australia hasta 5,2% del PIB para la de Noruega. En segundo lugar, se concluye que la gran diferencia con Chile no son las tasas marginales máximas, sino que el tramo exento es relativamente elevado y, más importante, que las tasas marginales suben muy lentamente con el ingreso. Ello se traduce en que las tasas medias de impuesto en Chile son, en general, menores que en dichos países. Tercero, que con estas nuevas estructuras de impuesto, el mejoramiento en la distribución del ingreso es marginal. Sin embargo, si estos recursos extras se usan para aumentar las transferencias, se podría lograr una mejora más relevante.
Runaway Stars as Possible Sources of the Elliptical Ring Structures in NGC 7538
Authors: Fenske Josephine , Arakawa Jason , Fallscheer Cassandra , Francesco James Di
Published: March 2021

Two large, ∼500 M
☉ elliptical ring structures have been identified in the high-mass star-forming region NGC 7538. The origin of these ring structures is unknown, so we investigate the possibility that a runaway O- or B-type star may have originated in or passed through the region and created either or both of the ring structures via stellar wind. In testing this hypothesis, we identify one candidate star, BD +61 2408, that may have formed the northern ring. It is a B3e star with a mass of ∼8 M
☉ and a surface temperature of ∼20,000 K. Its position, motion, timescale, and spectral type are all consistent with the star being a candidate for having formed one of the ring structures in NGC 7538.
Charging and Electromagnetic Radiation during the Inspiral of a Black Hole–Neutron Star Binary
Authors: Chen K. , Dai Z. G.
Published: March 2021

Because mergers of black hole–neutron star (BH–NS) binaries are widely argued to produce both gravitational and electromagnetic waves, these binaries are among the most attractive systems in the era of multi-messenger astronomy. In this paper we explore the charging processes of a moving BH in two types of charged surroundings and propose a new charging scenario differing from the elegant mechanism of Wald. During the inspiral of such a binary, the NS is strongly magnetized and the BH is moving inward. By considering this moving BH charging scenario, we find that the BH will increasingly accumulate enough net charge to light up the binary system at the inspiral stage. This charging process is universal no matter whether the BH spins or not. We show that our BH charging scenario can physically explain the BH’s unipolar inductor mechanism in a BH–NS binary system. We calculate electromagnetic emission luminosities due to various energy dissipation mechanisms and find that the electric dipole radiation of the BH makes a dominant contribution to electromagnetic emission at the final stage of inspiral if the BH spins slowly.
A Theoretical Framework for the Mass Distribution of Gas Giant Planets Forming through the Core Accretion Paradigm
Authors: Adams Fred C. , Meyer Michael R. , Adams Arthur D.
Published: March 2021

This paper constructs a theoretical framework for calculating the distribution of masses for gas giant planets forming via the core accretion paradigm. Starting with known properties of circumstellar disks, we present models for the planetary mass distribution over the range 0.1M
J ≤ M
p < 10M
J. If the circumstellar disk lifetime is solely responsible for the end of planetary mass accretion, the observed (nearly) exponential distribution of disk lifetime would imprint an exponential falloff in the planetary mass function. This result is in apparent conflict with observations, which suggest that the mass distribution has a (nearly) power-law form of

, with an index of p ≈ 1.3, over the relevant planetary mass range (and for stellar masses ∼0.5–2M
⊙). The mass accretion rate onto the planet depends on the fraction of the (circumstellar) disk accretion flow that enters the Hill sphere, and on the efficiency with which the planet captures the incoming material. Models for the planetary mass function that include distributions for these efficiencies, with uninformed priors, can produce nearly power-law behavior, consistent with current observations. The disk lifetimes, accretion rates, and other input parameters depend on the mass of the host star. We show how these variations lead to different forms for the planetary mass function for different stellar masses. Compared to stars with masses M
* = 0.5–2M
⊙, stars with smaller masses are predicted to have a steeper planetary mass function (fewer large planets).
Allophoma species (Pleosporales: Didymellaceae) associated with Thunbergia grandiflora in Guangxi Province, China
Authors: Yuan Jun , Zeng Xiang-Yu , Geng Kun , Wijayawardene Nalin , Bhat Jayarama , Wu Shi-Ping , Wang Yong , Yang Zai-Fu
Published: March 2021

Thunbergia grandiflorabelongs to the family Acanthaceae and is a widely distributed dicotyledonous plant in tropical and subtropical regions. Three isolates ofAllophoma(Dothideomycetes, Pleosporales, Didymellaceae) were collected from leaves ofT. grandiflorain Guangxi Province, China.

Phylogenetic analyses of a combined ITS–LSU–rpb2–tub2dataset indicate that one of our three strains represents an undescribed species with close affinity toA. minorand the other two strains clustered amongst other isolates ofA. pterospermicola. Evidence from morphology and sequence analysis indicates that GUCC 2070.7 is a new species that we introduce here asA. thunbergiae. This is the first report about taxa ofAllophomafrom this host plant.
High Grade Glioma Surgery - Clinical Aspects and Prognosis
Authors: Mladenovsk Milan , Valkov Iliya , Ovcharov Mladen , Vasilev Nikolay , Duhlenski Iliya
Published: March 2021

Introduction: High grade gliomas (HGG) are a group of tumors with infiltrative nature in general. Surgery is the first step in their treatment. It can be beneficial in two aspects: firstly, in establishing normal intracranial pressure and, secondly, in reducing the tumour volume. The choice of method depends on the location of the lesion, the expected grade of malignancy, and the general condition of the patient. Despite constant development of neuro-oncology and microsurgical techniques, the 5-year survival rate in patients with HGG remains less than 10% and the median survival is still less than 2 years. 

Aim: At present, there is no final therapeutic “segment” to provide a better outcome than the complex treatment of HGG. Moreover, the treatment’s relative efficacy and recurrence of these tumours carry an additional problem. The aim of this study was to estimate the overall survival of patients with HGG operated in our clinic and compare it with literature data. 

Materials and methods: One hundred twenty-one cranial operations for HGG were reviewed (conducted between 2014 and 2019). Summary characteristics of the various parameters were presented in respect to the radical nature of the operative intervention using Kaplan-Meier analysis and chi square tests. All patients were followed up at regular check-ups.

Results: HGGs were 103 or 85.12% of all gliomas operated for the 2014-2019 period. The most common cases were in the 51 to 60 age group. The cases in men were twice as common. The most common localization of the neoplasm is in the temporal region (36.36%) and the rarest was found in the occipital region (3.30%). It was estimated that our operated patients with HGG had 12.23 months over-all survival. Gross total resected patients had a median survival (OS) of 14.53 months, while subtotal resected patients had a median survival (OS) of 10.44 months. It is estimated 7.97 months free tumor survival period (time to relapse - FTS) for our operated patients with HGG. Gross total resected patients had a median FTS of 10.88 months, while subtotal resected patients had median FTS of 5.70 months. We noticed permanent new neurological deficit (NND) in 20 patients (19.45%) operated with GTR, and in 5 patients (4.85%) operated with STR. 

Conclusions: Median survival - OS, free tumor survival period - FTS and new neurological deficit - NND were statistically significant (p<0.05) with extent of resection – GTR or STR in our study. Maximal safe radical (total) or supratotal resection is preferred in treating HGG. 
Towards a Collaborative Model to Assist People with Disabilities and the Elderly People in Smart Assistive Cities
Authors: Matos Christian Moreira , Matter Vítor Kehl , Martins Márcio Garcia , Tavares João Elison da Rosa , Wolf Alexandre Sturmer , Buttenbender Paulo César , Barbosa Jorge Luis Victória
Published: March 2021

People with disabilities and the elderly face difficulties to fulfill their accessibility needs in their daily life routines, mainly when they have an emergency demanding speedy and specific assistance. This article proposes the SafeFollowing, a collaborative model to help people with disabilities and the elderly in smart assistive cities. The main contribution of this work is the specification of a decentralized model of ubiquitous accessibility, which involves public agents and volunteers to attend the users’ requests. SafeFollowing also allows the use of police vehicles mapping, in order to provide a specific follow-up in adverse situations of daily life. The model was validated through experiments in real case scenarios by 14 public agents and 11 elderly and people with disabilities. The results showed that 100% of evaluators (users and agents) stated that the model was useful and 82% of users and 100% of agents considered that SafeFollowing was easy to use. The experiments also allowed the learning of 5 relevant lessons on technological and usability aspects of SafeFollowing that are recorded in this article.
A new species of the genus Euxaldar Fennah, 1978 (Hemiptera, Fulgoromorpha, Issidae) from China and revision on the molecular phylogeny of the family
Authors: Yang Liang-Jing , Chang Zhi-Min , Yang Lin , Chen Xiang-Sheng
Published: March 2021

A new speciesEuxaldar daweishanensisYang, Chang & Chen,sp. nov.is described and illustrated from southwestern China. The female genitalia of the genusEuxaldaris described and presented for the first time. A checklist and key to the known species of the genus are provided. A revised molecular phylogenetic analysis of the family Issidae based on combined partial sequences of18S,28S,COI, andCytbis provided using both Maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses.
Effectiveness of a Second Biologic After Failure of a Non–tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor As First Biologic in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Chatzidionysiou Katerina , Hetland Merete Lund , Frisell Thomas , Di Giuseppe Daniela , Hellgren Karin , Glintborg Bente , Nordström Dan , Peltomaa Ritva , Aaltonen Kalle , Trokovic Nina , Kristianslund Eirik K. , Kvien Tore K. , Provan Sella A. , Gudbjornsson Bjorn , Grondal Gerdur , Dreyer Lene , Kristensen Lars Erik , Jørgensen Tanja Schjødt , Jacobsson Lennart T.H. , Askling Johan
Published: March 2021

Objective

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), evidence regarding the effectiveness of a second biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (bDMARD) in patients whose first-ever bDMARD was a non–tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) bDMARD is limited. The objective of this study was therefore to assess the outcome of a second bDMARD (non-TNFi: rituximab [RTX], abatacept [ABA], or tocilizumab [TCZ], separately; and TNFi) after failure of a non-TNFi bDMARD as first bDMARD.

Methods

We identified patients with RA from the 5 Nordic biologics registers who started treatment with a non-TNFi as first-ever bDMARD but switched to a second bDMARD. For the second bDMARD, we assessed drug survival (at 6 and 12 months) and primary response (at 6 months).

Results

We included 620 patients starting a second bDMARD (ABA 86, RTX 40, TCZ 67, and TNFi 427) following failure of a first non-TNFi bDMARD. At 6 and 12 months after start of their second bDMARD, approximately 70% and 60%, respectively, remained on treatment, and at 6 months, less than one-third of patients were still on their second bDMARD and had reached low disease activity or remission according to the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints. For those patients whose second bMDARD was a TNFi, the corresponding proportion was slightly higher (40%).

Conclusion

The drug survival and primary response of a second bDMARD in patients with RA switching due to failure of a non-TNFi bDMARD as first bDMARD is modest. Some patients may benefit from TNFi when used after failure of a non-TNFi as first bDMARD.
Composite Measures for Clinical Trials in Psoriatic Arthritis: Testing Pain and Fatigue Modifications in a UK Multicenter Study
Authors: Tillett William , FitzGerald Oliver , Coates Laura C. , Packham Jon , Jadon Deepak R. , Massarotti Marco , Brook Mel , Lane Suzanne , Creamer Paul , Antony Anna , Korendowych Eleanor , Rambojun Adwaye , McHugh Neil J. , Helliwell Philip S.
Published: March 2021

Objective

To test the addition of pain and fatigue to the Composite Psoriatic Arthritis Disease Activity (CPDAI) and the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and PsA (GRAPPA) Composite Exercise (GRACE) composite measures of psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Clinical and patient-reported outcome measures were assessed in patients with PsA at 3 consecutive follow-up visits over 6 months in a UK multicenter observational study. A pain visual analog scale and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue scale were added as modifications to the CPDAI and GRACE composite measures. Original and modified versions were tested against the PsA Disease Activity Score (PASDAS) and the Disease Activity Index for PsA (DAPSA). Discrimination between disease states and responsiveness were tested with t-scores, standardized response means (SRMs), and effect sizes. Data were presented to members at the 2020 annual meeting who then voted on the GRAPPArecommended composite and treatment targets for clinical trials.

Results

One hundred forty-one patients were recruited with a mean PsA disease duration of 6.1 years (range 0–41 yrs). The SRMs for the GRACE and modified GRACE (mGRACE) were 0.67 and 0.64, respectively, and 0.54 and 0.46, respectively, for the CPDAI and modified CPDAI (mCPDAI). The t-scores for the GRACE and mGRACE were unchanged at 7.8 for both, and 6.8 and 7.0 for the CPDAI and mCPDAI, respectively. The PASDAS demonstrated the best responsiveness (SRM 0.84) and discrimination (t-scores 8.3). Most members (82%) agreed the composites should not be modified and 77% voted for the PASDAS as the GRAPPA-recommended composite for clinical trials, with 90% minimal disease activity (MDA) as the target.

Conclusion

Modifying the CPDAI and GRACE with the addition of pain and fatigue does not enhance responsiveness nor the measures’ ability to detect disease status in terms of requiring treatment escalation. GRAPPA members voted for the PASDAS as the composite measure in clinical trials and MDA as the target.
Pomen varovanja vročih točk geodiverzitete za ohranitev biotske pestrosti na območju Nature 2000 v dolini reke Dragonje
Authors: Čonč Špela
Published: March 2021

Namen prispevka je na varovanem območju Natura 2000 ovrednotiti geodiverziteto in podati smernice za vključitev v obstoječi sistem naravovarstva. Kot območje preučevanja je bilo izbrano porečje Dragonje. Na podlagi kartografskega gradiva in terenskega dela smo izdelali morfografski zemljevid območja, s pomočjo literature pa prilagodili metodo izračuna indeksa geodiverzitete v geografskih informacijskih sistemih. Končni rezultat je zemljevid indeksa geodiverzitete, na podlagi katerega smo določili vroče točke geodiverzitete. //
 
The importance of protection of geodiversity hotspots for the conservation of biodiversity in the Natura 2000 area in the Dragonja river valleyThe purpose of the article is to evaluate geodiversity in Natura 2000 protected area and to provide guidelines for inclusion in the existing nature protection system. The Dragonja River basin (SW Slovenia) was selected as a study area. Based on cartographic material and field work we made a morphographic map of the area, and based on the literature we adjusted the method of calculating the geodiversity index in geographic information systems. The final result is a map of the geodiversity index, on the basis of which geodiversity hotspots were determined.
Apiturizem kot presečišče tradicije, zdravilstva in čebelarjeve trajnostne pridobitne dejavnosti // Apitourism as an intersection of tradition, alternative medicine and the beekeeper’s sustainable income-generating activity
Authors: Tišler Vanja , Šuligoj Metod
Published: March 2021

Apiturizem združuje trajnostni, nišni, dediščinski in zdravstveni turizem. Je nov turistični proizvod in tudi nova raziskovalna tema. V pričujočem prispevku pojasnimo razvoj apiturizma in apiterapije v Sloveniji. Ker je glavna posebnost slovenskega apiturizma certifikat odličnosti, smo s pomočjo intervjujev ugotavljali poglede certificiranih in necertificiranih ponudnikov (čebelarjev) na »izvajanje« apiturizma v praksi. Ugotovili smo, da imajo ponudniki o vključevanju apiturizma v slovensko okolje pozitivno mnenje, kritični pa so do zakonske neurejenosti apiterapije in si od državnih ustanov želijo večjo pomoč pri razvoju in promociji apiturizma. Zaznane so bile tudi razlike med cerificiranimi ponudniki in tistimi, ki certifikata nimajo. //
 
Apitourism combines sustainable, niche, heritage and health tourism. It is a new tourism product and a new research topic. In this paper we explain the development of apitourism and apitherapy in Slovenia. Since the main feature of Slovenian apitourism is the certificate of excellence, interviews were used to determine the views of certified and non-certified providers (beekeepers) of the business (“implementation” of apitourism in practice). We found out that providers have a positive opinion on the integration of apitourism into the Slovenian environment, but they are critical of the (legal) disorder of apitherapy. They also want more help in the development and promotion of apitourism from state institutions. Differences between certified providers and those who do not have a certificate were identified throughout the research.
IoT-Based Intelligent Irrigation System for Paddy Crop Using an Internet-Controlled Water Pump
Authors: Sharma Brij Bhushan , Kumar Nagesh
Published: March 2021

IoT is a communal association of things or equipment that can interact with each other with the help of an internet connection. IoT services play an imperative responsibility in the industry of agriculture, which can feed 10 billion people worldwide by 2050. Irrigation systems are a backbone of agriculture that help to reduce wastage of water and decide the effective usage of water according to the specific crop and thereby increase the crop yield. In this paper, an irrigation system is developed to supervise the paddy crop field using sensors (soil moisture sensor, pH sensor, and flow sensor), and this irrigation system works based on the concept of IoT, so it is known as intelligent irrigation system (IIS). The soil condition data from sensors are sent to a web server database using wireless transmission to decide how much water needed. In the proposed server database, the data is saved, and the authors use the concept of a dashboard; it operates via http protocol to control water pump of farmland. The condition of soil is monitored based on the parameter of soil-like moisture and water flow amount using the IoT, which is capable to turn on/off water pumps. The used dashboard is developed using open source free server, namely “000webhost.” This paper has considered the paddy crop that is rice because water is essential for growth and development of rice plants. The experimental results show this system is more proficient than the existing conventional and unadventurous irrigation approach.
Trust-Based Opportunistic Network Offloaders for Smart Agriculture
Authors: Sharma Prince , Shukla Shailendra , Vasudeva Amol
Published: March 2021

With the enormous use of internet of things-based devices for enabling smart agriculture, there is a significant need for efficient systems in order to improve agricultural practices. It can help efficiently to develop optimal web-based information system using the data of field monitoring. But, the collection of such data in the presence of connectivity disruptions poses new challenges for users. This paper targets to determine such offloaders with less infrastructural costs to enable smart agriculture based on network heuristics. Although, few works contribute to the trust established, most of them are applicable only for static networks. This paper explores a trust-based solution for mobile data offloading. This paper identifies the need and impact of trust determination using the trust model algorithm. The proposed algorithm outperforms the hybrid trust-based mobility aware clustering algorithm for trust-based offloaders with up to 13% better offloading potential saving a minimum of 8 pJ energy per user with just 25% contributors with 50% lesser time delay.
Learning to Evaluate Through That-Clauses
Authors: Man Deliang , Lee Kok Yueh , Chau Meng Huat , Smidt Esther
Published: March 2021

The advent of technology has facilitated the study of language development and writing development in the form of learner corpora. While learner corpus studies have flourished in recent years, few consider evaluative language development. This paper reports on a study which examines the use of evaluative that-clauses, a linguistic structure that is regularly used to express evaluation in academic writing, in a longitudinal corpus of 304 argumentative essays written by a group of undergraduate students at a university in Brunei. Results suggest students' dynamic use of language resources over time, and support the findings of previous research on the use of evaluative that-clauses by undergraduate students in other contexts of learning. This study, based on an approach to treating learner language in its own right, contributes to the understanding of the nature of language development. Implications for language teaching, including a revised role for teacher feedback and the use of longitudinal learner corpora for students' learning, are considered.
Influence of Intellectual Capital on Performance
Authors: Gupta Kanishka , Raman T. V.
Published: March 2021

Intellectual capital (IC) has gained recognition in enhancing the firms' value and gain a competitive advantage in the developed world. The present study examines the impact of IC on firms' financial performance. The study takes 48 companies for the time period of 10 years (2009-2018). The paper has used modified Pulic's value added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) as a proxy to measure IC and return on assets (ROA) to measure firms' financial performance. Granger causality between all the components of IC and ROA has been tested using Dumitrescu-Hurlin test. To analyse the impact, correlation and dynamic panel data regression technique has been applied. The result indicates that overall intellectual capital, human capital, relational capital, process capital, and financial capital have a significant impact on financial performance. On the other hand, innovation capital has no significant relationship with firms' financial performance. The results are helpful for managers, policymakers, government, and investors so that they can properly manage and regulate the IC of their organization.
Density-Based Clustering Method for Trends Analysis Using Evolving Data Stream
Authors: Kokate Umesh , Deshpande Arviand V. , Mahalle Parikshit N.
Published: March 2021

Evolution of data in the data stream environment generates patterns at different time instances. The cluster formation changes with respect to time because of the behaviour and members of clusters. Data stream clustering (DSC) allows us to investigate the changes of the group behaviour. These changes in the behaviour of the group members over time lead to formation of new clusters and may make old clusters extinct. Also, these extinct old clusters may recur over time. The problem is to identify and record these change patterns of evolving data streams. The knowledge obtained from these change patterns is then used for trends analysis over evolving data streams. In order to address this flexible clustering requirement, density-based clustering method is proposed to dynamically cluster evolving data streams. The decay factor identifies formation of new clusters and diminishing of older clusters on arrival of data points. This indicates trends in evolving data streams.
Handgrip Force and Maximum Inspiratory and Expiratory Pressures in Critically Ill Patients With a Tracheostomy
Authors: Grigoriadis Konstantinos , Efstathiou Ioannis , Dimitriadis Zacharias , Konstantopoulou Georgia , Grigoriadou Anna , Vasileiadis Georgios , Micha Maria , Tsagaris Iraklis , Armaganidis Apostolos
Published: March 2021

Background

The association between peripheral striated muscle strength and respiratory muscle strength has been confirmed in a number of disorders. However, this association is unknown in intensive care unit patients with tracheostomies.

Objective

To examine correlations between handgrip force, maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), and maximum expiratory pressure (MEP) in intensive care unit patients with tracheostomies.

Methods

Twenty patients (7 women, 13 men) with tracheostomies, in the intensive care unit longer than 11 days, in stable condition, with functional limbs, and with Glasgow Coma Scale scores of 15 were recruited. Both MIP and MEP were measured with a membrane manometer; handgrip force was measured with a hydraulic hand dynamometer.

Results

Handgrip force was significantly correlated with MIP (r = 0.45, P = .04) and MEP (r = 0.78, P = .001). Handgrip force was significantly predicted by MIP and MEP when the effect of sex was controlled for (P < .05). However, when MIP and MEP were included as predictors in a regression model, MEP was the only significant predictor (R = 0.80, R2 = 0.63, adjusted R2 = 0.57).

Conclusions

Strength of the hand flexors and strength of the expiratory muscles (abdominal) were significantly correlated in intensive care unit patients. Handgrip strength appears to be an easy, fast way to evaluate expiratory muscle strength by using a simple handhold command without special equipment. A strong handhold may also correspond to strong expiratory muscles. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03457376
Spectrum of Anti-NMDA Receptor Antibody Encephalitis
Authors: Datta Amlan Kusum , Pandit Alak , Biswas Samar , Biswas Atanu , Roy Biman Kanti , Gangopaddhyay Goutam
Published: March 2021

Background:

Anti-N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (anti NMDAR) antibody encephalitis is an immune-mediated entity characterised by a constellation of neuro-psychiatric symptoms.

Objective:

To describe clinical profile and treatment outcomes of patients with anti NMDAR antibody encephalitis.

Settings and Design:

Subjects were selected by screening for all patients satisfying Graus et al.'s criteria for probable anti NMDAR antibody encephalitis, admitted in neurology department of a tertiary care centre in Eastern India.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective, longitudinal study was conducted by identifying 25 patients with anti NMDAR antibodies in CSF and or serum, between September 2018 to February 2020.

Statistical Analysis:

Chi square test was used to compare variables.

Results:

Out of 98 patients screened, 25 subjects (14 females: 11 male) were positive for anti NMDAR autoantibodies, with a mean age of 17 years. 13 subjects belonged to paediatric age group. Most common presenting feature was memory/learning deficit (88%) followed by behavioural abnormalities (84%) and seizures (68%). 11 patients (44%) patients needed escalation to second line therapy, rituximab. Seven (28%) and twelve (48%) patients underwent complete (mRS 0-1) and partial recovery (mRS 2-3) respectively, while 4 (16%) became disabled (mRS 4-5). Mortality was 8%. Paediatric population had a better outcome in terms of disability (p = 0.043).

Conclusion:

Anti NMDAR-Ab encephalitis is the most common cause of antibody positive autoimmune encephalitis worldwide. There are important clinical markers and investigational profiles which carry prognostic significance.
Intralymphatic immunotherapy for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hoang M.P. , Seresirikachorn K. , Chitsuthipakorn W. , Snidvongs K.
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Intralymphatic immunotherapy (ILIT) is a new route of allergen-specific immunotherapy. Data confirming its effect is restricted to a small number of studies. METHODOLOGY: A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted. The short-term (less than 24 weeks), medium-term (24-52 weeks), and long-term (more than 52 weeks) effects of ILIT in patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) were assessed. The outcomes were combined symptom and medication scores (CSMS), symptoms visual analog scale (VAS), disease-specific quality of life (QOL), specific IgG4 level, specific IgE level, and adverse events. RESULTS: Eleven randomized controlled trials and 2 cohorts (483 participants) were included. Compared with placebo, short term benefits of ILIT for seasonal ARC improved CSMS, improved VAS and increased specific IgG4 level but did not change QOL or specific IgE level. Medium-term effect improved VAS. Data on the long-term benefit of ILIT remain unavailable and require longer term follow-up studies. There were no clinical benefits of ILIT for perennial ARC. ILIT was safe and well-tolerated. CONCLUSION: ILIT showed short-term benefits for seasonal ARC. The sustained effects of ILIT were inconclusive. It was well tolerated.