bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Зміна кліматичних умов Причорноморського степу та продуктивність пшениці озимої
Authors: Бурикіна С.І. , Цуркан О.І. , Таранюк А.І.
Published: December 2021

Мета дослідження – узагальнення і практичнаоцінка змін агрокліматичних умов Причорноморськогостепу та їхнього впливу на продуктивність пшениціозимої. Методи досліджень – використання масивупоказників спостережень метеопосту і польового дов-гострокового досліду з добривами; статистичні методиобробітку інформації.Результати. Систематизація та аналіз показниківклімату Причорноморського степу на прикладі Одеськоїобласті у період із 1970 по 2021 роки дозволили отри-мати такі результати:– щорічно, починаючи з ХХІ століття, середня температура повітря на території Одеської області буластабільно вищою за кліматичну норму, її відхиленняколиваються в інтервалі від 0,8оС до 2,7оС. Найбільшівідхилення відмічені у січні та липні: середня температура січня за 51-річний період зросла на 1,3°С, липня –на 2,2°С;– за період спостережень середньорічна кількістьопадів (O) становила 456,8 мм, а середня за вегетаціюозимої пшениці – 450,8 мм із імовірністю 70,6%;– за останні 20 років не відбувається суттєвих зміну кількості опадів відносно кліматичної норми, але простежується перерозподіл кількості опадів в окремі місяціта сезони; зменшується кількість днів із опадами у середньому до 61,5 днів, а за останні 10 років – до 53 днів(проти 85 днів за вегетацію озимини у 1971–1980 роках,або проти середніх значень 86,2 діб за календарні1970-1992 роки);– у період вегетації озимої пшениці помітно змінилася характеристика опадів за їхніми градаціями:у середньому за 2011–2021 рр. частка днів із опадами у кількості менш ніж 1 мм зменшилася з 25,3%(1971–1980 роки) до 7,8%; частка днів із опадами у кількості з 1 до 5 мм залишилася практично на одномурівні (39,4-38,2%); відсоток днів із опадами у кількості5-9,9 мм та 10-19,9 мм зріс у 1,6 та 1,4 рази відповідно;частка днів, коли одноразово випало більш ніж 20 мм,зросла у 1,6 рази, більш ніж 50 мм – удвічі;– продуктивність пшениці озимої за її вирощуваннябез добрив суттєво залежала від кількості днів із опадами (r2=0,98), на фоні добрив показала середній рівеньзалежності (r2=0,68). Водночас величина приросту врожаю зерна за використання добрив мала оберненузалежність середнього ступеня (r=-0,56): чим більшедощових днів у період вегетації, тим меншим є приріствідносно контролю без добрив.Висновки. Протягом останніх десятиріч в Одеськійобласті суттєво змінився температурний режим і режимзволоження, а також характеристика опадів за їхнімиградаціями як за календарним роком, так і за періодомвегетації озимини. Середньорічна температура повітрязросла на 2,0оС порівняно з 1970-1980 роками, зокремана 1,2оС – із 1999 року. Кількість опадів за цей періодзменшилася на 56,7 мм із тенденцією до стабілізації заостанні 10 років. Кількість дощових днів зменшиласяпрактично удвічі.Внесок природної родючості у формування приростуврожаю пшениці озимої в умовах Причорноморськогостепу становить 13,7%, добрив – 52,1%, а часткакомплексного впливу погодних умов коливається від25,1 до 30,9%.
Інтерв’ю кандидатів с.-г. наук, старших наукових співробітників відділу селекції Інституту зрошуваного землеробства НААН Олени Тищенко та Андрія Тищенка
Authors: Тищенко О. , Тищенко А.
Published: December 2021

Інтерв’ю кандидатів с.-г. наук, старших наукових співробітників відділу селекції Інституту зрошуваного землеробства НААН Олени Тищенко та Андрія Тищенка
STRATEGY OF ISLAMIC PHILANTHROPY MANAGEMENT FOR ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AT BMH GERAI PONOROGO USING SWOT APPROACH
Authors: Syamsuri Syamsuri , Mokan Zaimudin Al-Mahdi
Published: December 2021

Based on the 2017 Zakat Outlook data from BAZNAS shows the great potential of Islamic philanthropy in economic empowerment. Among these Islamic philanthropic institutions, namely LAZ Baitul Maal Hidayatullah Ponorogo. This study aims to determine the management of Islamic philanthropy for economic empowerment and development strategies for economic empowerment programs at BMH Gerai Ponorogo using descriptive qualitative methods and data collection techniques through documentation, non-participant observation, and semi-structured interviews. Then analyzed using descriptive analysis methods and SWOT analysis. This research shows that Islamic philanthropic management for economic empowerment of BMH Gerai Ponorogo uses a special allocation from infaq funds and also shadaqah for the BMH Gerai Ponorogo economic empowerment program in the form of grants for business capital. Currently there are 2 main programs of economic empowerment, namely “Pesantren Berdaya” Catfish Cultivation, Shaleh Hidyatullah Children's Education Center, Sumoroto, Kab. Ponorogo and Oyster Mushroom Cultivation for Dai Tangguh in Kec. Parang, Kab, Magetan, East Java. In the aspect of Islamic economic empowerment materially in the form of capital and business assistance. Meanwhile, spiritually this economic empowerment program aims to support Islamic preaching on these two objects. For the economic empowerment strategy, it is seen in 3 aspects: enabling aspects (pre-program implementation), BMH Gerai Ponorogo conducted a survey and a feasibility test for the type of business. Then in the aspect of empowering (implementing) BMH Gerai Ponorogo also participates in mentoring and business assistance by controlling it regularly for 1-3 months. For limited guidance, apart from meetings, also through online media such as YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook to provide direction/advice and consultation on program development. For the aspect of protecting (evaluation) BMH Ponorogo Gerai accommodates complaints and obstacles experienced and formulates solutions. Overall, the BMH Gerai Ponorogo economic empowerment program has major problems in human resources and competency in managing economic empowerment. Researchers recommend the provision of training or recruitment of special experts for the development of economic empowerment programs both intensively and extensively at the BMH Gerai Ponorogo.
Catastrophe or Catalyst? Reflections on COVID’s Impact on Community Colleges
Authors: Brock Thomas , Diwa Cameron
Published: December 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic led to a steep decline in enrollments at community colleges, especially among Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous populations, males, and part-time students. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Acts provided funds for emergency aid and engaging disconnected students, and community colleges moved swiftly to shift services and instruction online. In this essay, we discuss how students and community colleges responded to the pandemic and what their experiences reveal about inequities in higher education. We argue that the crisis was worsened by years of underinvestment in these institutions and by entrenched structures and practices that do not address the needs and aspirations of many students. We review evidence on reforms that aim to remake community colleges in ways that improve student outcomes. While COVID-19 can rightly be viewed as a catastrophe, it may also serve as a catalyst for fundamental and lasting improvements in how community colleges are funded, organized, and operated to help more students achieve their goals.
THE APPLICATION OF GUAJAVA LEAF EXTRACT (Psidium guajava Linnaeus) AS IMMUNOSTIMULANT OF COMMON CARP (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus) INFECTED BY MOTILE AEROMONAS SEPTICEMIA
Authors: Amelia Rissa , Harpeni Esti , Fidyandini Hilma Putri
Published: December 2021

This study aims to analyze the effect of the various concentration of guava leaf extract (Psidium guajava Linnaeus) on the prevention of Motile Aeromonas Septicemia disease in common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus). In a total of 150 common carp, length 9-11 cm with a density of 10 carps/aquarium. This study used a completely randomized design through 5 treatments, each treatment has 3 replications, namely (K+) consists of without guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts and without bacteria-infection Aeromonas hydrophila, (K-) consists of without guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts with bacteria-infection Aeromonas hydrophila, (A) the application of 125 ppm guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts, (B) the application of 250 ppm guava leaf extracts, (C) the application of 500 ppm guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts for 23 days. The parameters observed total of leukocytes, differensial leukocytes, hematocrit levels, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, phagocytic activity (AF), phagocytic index (IF), relative percent survival (RPS), survival rate (SR) and water quality. Data were analyzed with Anova 95% confidence interval and continued with Duncan test. The parameter also showed a significant result (P<0,05) with the application of guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts to the total leukocytes, differensial leukocytes, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index and relative percent survival. The results of this research indicate the concentration of 250 ppm guava Psidium guajava leaf extracts is the optimum application to increase common carp non-spesific immune responses.
O trabalho escravo contemporâneo no Brasil e o Caso José Pereira
Authors: Oliveira Moreira Thiago , Pereira Gurgel Yara Maria , Galvão de Sousa Lins Ricardo
Published: December 2021

Embora o trabalho escravo tenha sido formalmente abolido no território brasileiro há mais de 130 anos, a submissão de trabalhadores a condições análogas à de escravo ainda é uma realidade social. Em outubro de 2003, nos autos do Caso José Pereira, perante a Comissão Interamericana de Direitos Humanos (CIDH), o Estado brasileiro reconheceu a ocorrência da escravidão contemporânea em território nacional e se comprometeu a cumprir diversas medidas de reparação e de prevenção. O objetivo deste estudo é analisar em que medida as obrigações assumidas foram efetivamente cumpridas. Para isso, após analisar o cenário do trabalho escravo contemporâneo no Brasil até o ano de 2003, foram abordadas as principais obrigações assumidas no acordo firmado perante a CIDH e, em seguida, foram analisados, dentre outros documentos, os relatórios de Informes Anuais da Comissão. O método adotado foi o indutivo e os métodos de procedimento utilizados foram as técnicas comparativa, histórica e etnográfica, além de pesquisas documental e bibliográfica.
Mechanism for Stimulating and Effective Use of the Innovative Potential of Uzbekistan
Authors: Turdiyeva M.
Published: December 2021

The article examines the complex theoretical and practical aspects of improving the mechanisms of increase of innovative activity of industrial enterprises, the theoretical questions of the innovation economy, in particular, innovative Wednesday in general, in a framework for ensuring the competitiveness of innovative businesses and the development of innovative processes in the knowledge model, in addition analyzed directly mechanisms increasing the innovative activity of industrial enterprises based on various methods and tools.
A rare small intestine injury without free gas image on radiological imaging after blunt abdominal trauma in a child: ileal perforation
Authors: Madenci Hasan , Uğur Cüneyt , Demirci Taha
Published: December 2021

Introduction:Trauma continues to be one of the leading causes of death in children. Even though among traumas blunt abdominal trauma is frequently seen in children, small intestine injuries due to blunt abdominal trauma are very rare. In case the diagnosis of intestinal perforations is delayed and not treated rapidly, severe morbidity and mortality may develop.
Case Report: In this case, a 4-year-old male patient with ileal perforation, who applied to the emergency department with blunt abdominal trauma and did not show any signs of free gas in radiological imaging, was presented.
Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, ileal perforation associated with blunt abdominal trauma is very rare in the literature. The aim of this case report is to emphasize the necessity of considering small intestine injury in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal syndrome in children applying with blunt abdominal trauma.
Case Report; Primary Aortoenteric Fistula Due to Plum Kernel
Authors: Hocagil Hilal , Hocagil Abdullah Cüneyt
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Aortoenteric fistulas are defined as an abnormal connection between the aorta and any portion of the gastrointestinal tract. It can occur after aortic repair surgery or spontaneously (primary). The common clinical features of primary aortoenteric fistula are upper gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, and pulsatile abdominal mass. The reasons are inflammatory destruction of an aortic aneurysm, infection, tumors and ingestion of foreign bodies.
We represent a case of a primary aortoenteric fistula due to plum kernel which is rarely seen.
Case Report: A 76-year-old man admitted to emergency department with abdominal pain. On computed tomography angiography, there was hypodense restricted lesion with widespread air image which was located around the abdominal aorta. It was determined that abdominal aorta is surrounded by organised hematoma. A plum kernel, was detected in the operating room, was the reason for the aortoenteric fistula. Graft was placed in the abdominal aorta. He died in the first day after surgery.
Conclusions: Primary aortoenteric fistulas should be considered in differential diagnosis of abdominal pain, upper gastrointestinal bleeding and shock in patient with aortic aneurysm. Kernels of any fruit considered to be harmless just as plum kernel and should be noted that may cause aortoenteric fistula.
Duckweed: a model for phytoremediation technology
Authors: Kaur Leela , Kanwar Nupur
Published: December 2021

The Lemnaceae or duckweed family comprises 37
species of smallest and simplest flowering plants. Duckweeds have a fast growth
rate, can survive under a wide range of temperature and pH conditions and are
easy to maintain and harvest which makes them an excellent candidate for
bioremediation of wastewaters. The main objective of the present review is to
extend an appreciation for the potential of living and non-living biomass of
duckweed in remediating waters contaminated with heavy metals. Along with
showing the detailed mechanism of phytoremediation by duckweed, the paper also
discusses the enhancement of duckweed phytoremediation by the integration of
transgenic technology. Furthermore, the paper explores other applications of
duckweed specifically as fuel, animal feed, in human nutrition, in medicine and
as a life support system. Apart from this, various disposal mechanisms for
harvested duckweed have been analysed. Current understanding of removal
efficiencies of several contaminants by employing duckweed is limited mainly to
laboratory experiments. More concentrated and persistent efforts to develop
efficient approaches for the genetic transformation of duckweeds can expand the
development and utilization of duckweeds.
PENGARUH BUDAYA ORGANISASI TERHADAP KINERJA PEGAWAI MELALUI KOMITMEN ORGANISASI SEBAGAI VARIABEL MEDIASI PADA UPTP KEMENTERIAN KETENAGAKERJAAN RI DI KENDARI
Authors: Nurseta Esty , Kamaluddin Murdjani , Palilati Alida
Published: December 2021

This research aims to examine and explain the effect of organizational culture on employee performance through organizational commitment as a mediating as  a mediating variable at the UPTP of Ministry of Manpower in Kendari. The population in this study are all government civil at the UPTP of Ministry of Manpower in Kendari totalling 62 respondents. The sampling technique in this study was carried out by means of the census technique so that the entire population was used as the research sample. Methods oof data collection were used questionnaire. Technique of data anlysis used is Partial Least Square (PLS).The results showed that organizational culture has a positive and significant effect on organizational commitment, organizational commitment has a positive and significant effect on employee performance, organizational culture has a positive and significant effects on employee commitment, and commitment organizational as a partial mediate of the effects organizational culture on employee performance.
PENGARUH KOMPETENSI DAN LINGKUNGAN KERJA NON FISIK TERHADAP KEPUASAN KERJA DAN KINERJA PEGAWAI LEMBAGA PEMBINAAN KHUSUS ANAK KELAS II KENDARI
Authors: Rahman Agus , Sarita Buyung , Hamid Wahyuniati
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze the effect of competence and non-physical work environment on job satisfaction and employee performance, examine the effect of job satisfaction on employee performance, and examine the mediating effect of job satisfaction on the influence of competence and non-physical work environment on employees performance at Child Special Development Institution Class II Kendari. This research approach is quantitative using survey methods and explanatory research design. The data was collected by cross-section using an instrument of a questionnaire. The population on this study were employees at Child Special Development Institution Class II Kendari, using the census method of determining respondents, so that the respondent size was set at 46 employees. The analytical tool used is Partial Least Square (PLS).The results of this study indicate that competence has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. competence has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction, non-physical work environment has a positive and significant effect on employee performance, non-physical work environment has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction, job satisfaction has a positive and significant effect on employee performance, and job satisfaction does not mediate the effect of competence and non-physical work environment on employee performance. From these results it can be concluded that the better the competence possessed, the existing non-physical work environment and also the perceived job satisfaction, will be able to improve employee performance.
PENGARUH DIMENSI KUALITAS PELAYANAN TERHADAP KEPUASAN MASYARAKAT PADA PROSES PEMBUATAN SIM DI SATLANTAS SATUAN PENYELENGGARA ADMINISTRASI SIM (SATPAS) POLRES KENDARI
Authors: Aris Muhammad , Kamaluddin Murdjani , Masri Muhammad
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect; 1) Simultaneously the dimensions of service quality consisting of tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, on community satisfaction. 2) partially the tangible dimension to community satisfaction. 3) partially the dimension of reliability to community satisfaction. 4) partially the dimensions of responsiveness to community satisfaction. 5) partially the dimension of assurance to community satisfaction. 6) partially the dimension of empathy to community satisfaction. The research design used is quantitative research. The data used are secondary and primary data. Data analysis usingSPSS software version 20. The sampling technique uses accidental sampling totaled 48 applicants who made SIM at the Kendari Police SATPAS. The results showed that; 1) The dimensions of service quality simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction. 2) The dimension of physical evidence (tangible) partially has a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction. 3) The dimension of reliability partially has a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction. 4) The dimension of responsiveness (responsiveness) partially has a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction. 5) The partially assurance dimension has a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction. 6) Dimensions of empathy (empathy) partially have a positive and significant effect on community satisfaction.
Is it Possible to Verify if a Transaction is Spendable?
Authors: Arenas Marcelo , Reisenegger Thomas , Reutter Juan , Vrgoč Domagoj
Published: December 2021

With the popularity of Bitcoin, there is a growing need to understand the functionality, security, and performance of various mechanisms that comprise it. In this paper, we analyze Bitcoin’s scripting language, Script, that is one of the main building blocks of Bitcoin transactions. We formally define the semantics of Script, and study the problem of determining whether a user-defined script is well-formed; that is, whether it can be unlocked, or whether it contains errors that would prevent this from happening.
Predicting Phrenic Nerve Palsy in Patients Undergoing Atrial Fibrillation Ablation With the Cryoballoon—Does Sex Matter?
Authors: Pott Alexander , Wirth Hagen , Teumer Yannick , Weinmann Karolina , Baumhardt Michael , Schweizer Christiane , Markovic Sinisa , Buckert Dominik , Bothner Carlo , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Dahme Tillman
Published: December 2021

Background: Phrenicus nerve palsy (PNP) is a typical complication during pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using the cryoballoon with the ominous potential to counteract the clinical benefit of restored sinus rhythm. According to current evidence incidence of PNP is about 5–10% of patients undergoing Cryo-PVI and is more frequent during ablation of the RSPV compared to the RIPV. However, information on patient specific characteristics predicting PNP and long-term outcome of patients suffering from this adverse event is sparse.

Aim of the Study: To evaluate procedural and clinical characteristics of AF patients with PNP during cryoballoon PVI compared to patients without PNP.

Methods and Results: Between 2013 and 2019 we included 632 consecutive AF patients undergoing PVI with the cryoballoon in our study. 84/632 (13.3%) patients experienced a total number of 89 PNP during the ablation procedure. 75/89 (84%) cryothermal induced PNP recovered until the end of the procedure (transient PNP, tPNP), whereas 14/89 (16%) PNP hold beyond the end of the procedure (non-transient PNP, ntPNP). Using multivariate logistic regression, we found that sex and BMI are strong and independent predictors of cryothermal induced non-transient PNP during cryoballoon PVI with an odds ratio of 3.9 (CI: 95%, 1.1–14.8, p = 0.04) for female gender. Interestingly, all patients (14/14, 100%) with a non-transient PNP experienced complete PNP resolution after a mean recovery time of 68 ± 79 days.

Conclusion: Our data indicate for the first time, that female sex and lower BMI are independent predictors for non-transient PNP caused by cryoballoon PVI. Fortunately, during follow up all PNP patients resolved completely with a median recovery time of 35 days.
Insights of Worsening Renal Function in Type 1 Cardiorenal Syndrome: From the Pathogenesis, Biomarkers to Treatment
Authors: Fu Kang , Hu Yue , Zhang Hui , Wang Chen , Lin Zongwei , Lu Huixia , Ji Xiaoping
Published: December 2021

Type-1 cardiorenal syndrome refers to acute kidney injury induced by acute worsening cardiac function. Worsening renal function is a strong and independent predictive factor for poor prognosis. Currently, several problems of the type-1 cardiorenal syndrome have not been fully elucidated. The pathogenesis mechanism of renal dysfunction is unclear. Besides, the diagnostic efficiency, sensitivity, and specificity of the existing biomarkers are doubtful. Furthermore, the renal safety of the therapeutic strategies for acute heart failure (AHF) is still ambiguous. Based on these issues, we systematically summarized and depicted the research actualities and predicaments of the pathogenesis, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic strategies of worsening renal function in type-1 cardiorenal syndrome.
How Does Land Urbanization Promote CO2 Emissions Reduction? Evidence From Chinese Prefectural-Level Cities
Authors: Tang Maogang , Hu Fengxia
Published: December 2021

The process of land urbanization may result in a great change in land use structure, land use intensity, and efficiency, which could further lead to an increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Despite rich literature on the link between urbanization and CO2 emissions, the mechanism through which land urbanization promotes CO2 emissions reductions has not been fully investigated. To address this gap, this study theoretically and empirically explores the mechanism of land urbanization’s influence on CO2 emissions by integrating land use optimization and high-quality industrial development into a unified framework. Firstly, the theoretical mechanism analysis indicates that low-level industrial development and land use management promote the increase of CO2 emissions per unit of land at the extensive land use stage; however, high-quality industrial development and land use optimization lower CO2 emissions per unit of land at the intensive land use stage. Subsequently, a STIRPAT model and a spatial adaptive semi-parametric model are employed to verify the relationship between the land urbanization rate and total CO2 emissions. The results indicate that the land urbanization rate and total CO2 emissions present an inverted U-shaped relationship. In addition, the mediating mechanism of the advanced industrial structure, CO2 emissions per unit of GDP, and CO2 emissions per unit of land, are studied using the mediating effect model. Results indicate that CO2 emissions reduction can be achieved by promoting the advanced industrial structure, reducing CO2 emissions per unit of GDP or reducing CO2 emissions per unit of land. Ultimately, this study showed that the Chinese government may reduce CO2 emissions by promoting land use structure optimization, land use intensity regulation, land use efficiency improvement, and adjusting energy consumption structure, upgrading industrial structure, and promoting emission efficiency technologies.
A Perspective on the Success and Failure of BCG
Authors: Kumar Pawan
Published: December 2021

TB continues to be one of the major public health threats. BCG is the only available vaccine against TB and confers significant protection against the childhood disease. However, the protective efficacy of BCG against adult pulmonary TB, which represents a larger burden of disease, is highly variable. It has been suggested that prior exposure to environmental mycobacteria (EMb) mitigates the anti-TB efficacy of BCG by blocking its duplication or masking its immunogenicity. However, its effectiveness against childhood TB and failure of repeated administration to provide additional benefit against pulmonary TB, suggest of some other mechanisms for the variable efficacy of BCG against the pulmonary disease. Importantly, TB is a heterogeneous disease occurring in different forms and having distinct mechanisms of pathogenesis. While inability of the immune system to contain the bacilli is responsible for TB pathogenesis in infants, an aggravated immune response toMtbhas been blamed for the development of adult pulmonary TB. Available data suggest that EMb play a key role in heightening the immune response againstMtb. In this article, differential efficacy of BCG against childhood and adult TB is explained by taking into account the heterogeneity of TB, mechanisms of TB pathogenesis, and the effect of EMb on anti-Mtbimmunity. It is believed that a refined understanding of the success and failure of BCG will help in the development of effective anti-TB vaccines.
Theoretical Insight Into Diamond Doping and Its Possible Effect on Diamond Tool Wear During Cutting of Steel
Authors: Hao Li , Manzhos Sergei , Zhang Zhijun
Published: December 2021

Natural diamond tools experience wear during cutting of steel. As reported in our previous work, Ga doping of diamond has an effect on suppressing graphitization of diamond which is a major route of wear. We investigate interstitial and substitutional dopants of different valence and different ionic radii (Ga, B, and He) to achieve a deeper understanding of inhibiting graphitization. In this study, ab initio calculations are used to explore the effects of three dopants that might affect the diamond wear. We consider mechanical effects via possible solution strengthening and electronic effects via dopant-induced modifications of the electronic structure. We find that the bulk modulus difference between pristine and doped diamond is clearly related to strain energies. Furthermore, boron doping makes the resulting graphite with stable sp2 hybridization more perfect than diamond, but Ga-doped diamond needs 2.49 eV to form the two graphene-like layers than only one layer, which would result in the suppressed graphitization and reduced chemical wear of the diamond tool.
Role of Abdominal Aortic Balloon Placement in Planned Conservative Management of Placenta Previa With Placenta Increta or Percreta
Authors: Lu Ruihui , Chu Ran , Wang Qiannan , Xu Yintao , Zhao Ying , Tao Guowei , Li Qi , Ma Yuyan
Published: December 2021

Background: We investigated the role of balloon placement in the abdominal aorta (BPAA) in planned conservative management of placenta previa with placenta increta or percreta and the effects of BPAA on perinatal adverse maternal events.

Methods: This retrospective case-control study included women with placenta previa (increta or percreta), who underwent pregnancy termination at the Qilu Hospital of Shandong University between January 2016 and June 2019. Patients were categorized into the BPAA and non-BPAA groups based on the BPAA placement before delivery. The Chi-square and non-parametric rank-sum tests were used for the intergroup comparison of patient characteristics. The propensity score matching algorithm was used to minimize the intergroup differences in clinical characteristics. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with a high risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [area under the curve (AUC)] was used to evaluate the classification of the selected high-risk factors.

Results: The study included 260 patients, and 104 patients were identified after propensity score matching. In the post-matched cohort, intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the BPAA than in the non-BPAA group (median 1,000 vs. 2,250 ml, P < 0.001). Intraoperative B-Lynch suture was performed in fewer patients in the BPAA (15.4 vs. 34.6%, P = 0.024) than in the non-BPAA group. The packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion rate was lower in the BPAA group (median 4 vs. 8 units, P < 0.001). Overall, 46 (45.1%) patients developed adverse maternal events; however, the rate of adverse maternal events was lower in the BPAA group (19.6 vs. 80.4%, P < 0.001). No ligation of the ascending branch of the uterine artery (P = 0.034), no BPAA (P < 0.001), intraplacental vascular lacunae (P = 0.046), and cervical hypervascularity (P = 0.001) were associated with a high risk of adverse perinatal maternal events. The AUC of the high-risk factors was 0.89 in the post-matched and 0.76 in the pre-matched cohorts.

Conclusion: Planned conservative management using BPAA significantly minimized the intraoperative blood loss, the need for a B-Lynch suture, and PRBC transfusion in patients with severe placenta accreta spectrum and placenta previa.
Sustained Release of Gas6 via mPEG-PLGA Nanoparticles Enhances the Therapeutic Effects of MERTK Gene Therapy in RCS Rats
Authors: Wu Shen , Mao Yingyan , Liu Qian , Yan Xuejing , Zhang Jingxue , Wang Ningli
Published: December 2021

Previous researches utilizing MER proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MERTK) gene therapy in Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats evidenced its effectiveness in treating MERTK-associated retinitis pigmentosa (RP). Specific ligands for receptor tyrosine kinases, such as growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6), may enhance retinal phagocytosis via the MERTK receptor, and consequently, enhance the therapeutic effects of gene therapy. In order to overcome the short life effect of the injected Gas6 protein, we constructed a Gas6 loaded methoxy-poly (ethylene glyeol)-poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (mPEG-PLGA) nanoparticles (Gas6 NPs) system which allowed for localized and sustained Gas6 protein release, and therefore, a prolonged biological effect. Our data demonstrated that Gas6 protein release from Gas6 NPs preserved the bioactivity and promoted retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) phagocytosis in vitro. In vivo studies showed that RCS rats in the hMERTK/Gas6 NPs group exhibiting the highest electroretinogram responses and more complete retinal structure than that in other groups, further demonstrating that the co-administration of AAV2-BEST1-hMERTK and Gas6 NPs could protect photoreceptors from degeneration. These findings strongly suggest that Gas6 NPs are a promising method to enable the sustained release of Gas6 protein and could therefore enhance the therapeutic effects of gene therapy for MERTK-associated RP.
High Circulating Sonic Hedgehog Protein Is Associated With Poor Outcome in EGFR-Mutated Advanced NSCLC Treated With Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Takam Kamga Paul , Swalduz Aurélie , Costantini Adrien , Julié Catherine , Emile Jean-François , Pérol Maurice , Avrillon Virginie , Ortiz-Cuaran Sandra , de Saintigny Pierre , Giroux-Leprieur Etienne
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Growing preclinical evidence has suggested that the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway is involved in resistance to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy for EGFR-mutated (EGFRm) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, little is known concerning the prognostic value of this pathway in this context.

Materials and Methods

We investigated the relationship between plasma levels of Shh and EGFRm NSCLC patients’ outcome with EGFR TKIs. We included 74 consecutive patients from two institutions with EGFRm advanced NSCLC treated by EGFR TKI as first-line therapy. Plasma samples were collected longitudinally for each patient and were analyzed for the expression of Shh using an ELISA assay. The activation of the Shh–Gli1 pathway was assessed through immunohistochemistry (IHC) of Gli1 and RT-qPCR analysis of the transcripts of Gli1 target genes in 14 available tumor biopsies collected at diagnosis (baseline).

Results

Among the 74 patients, only 61 had baseline (diagnosis) plasma samples, while only 49 patients had plasma samples at the first evaluation. Shh protein was detectable in all samples at diagnosis (n = 61, mean = 1,041.2 ± 252.5 pg/ml). Among the 14 available tumor biopsies, nuclear expression of Gli1 was observed in 57.1% (8/14) of patients’ biopsies. Shh was significantly (p < 0.05) enriched in youth (age < 68), male, nonsmokers, patients with a PS > 1, and patients presenting more than 2 metastatic sites and L858R mutation. Higher levels of Shh correlated with poor objective response to TKI, shorter progression-free survival (PFS), and T790M-independent mechanism of resistance. In addition, the rise of plasma Shh levels along the treatment was associated with the emergence of drug resistance in patients presenting an initial good therapy response.

Conclusion

These data support that higher levels of plasma Shh at diagnosis and increased levels of Shh along the course of the disease are related to the emergence of TKI resistance and poor outcome for EGFR-TKI therapy, suggesting that Shh levels could stand both as a prognostic and as a resistance biomarker for the management of EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients treated with EGFR-TKI.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of a Compound of Micronized Flavonoids in Combination With Vitamin C and Extracts of Centella asiatica, Vaccinium myrtillus, and Vitis vinifera for the Reduction of Hemorrhoidal Symptoms in Patients With Grade II and III Hemorrhoidal Disease: A Retrospective Real-Life Study
Authors: Gravina Antonietta G. , Pellegrino Raffaele , Facchiano Angela , Palladino Giovanna , Loguercio Carmelina , Federico Alessandro
Published: December 2021

Background and Aim: Several evidences have shown how, in hemorrhoidal disease, phlebotonic flavonoid agents such as quercetin reduce capillary permeability by increasing vascular walls resistance, how rutin and vitamin C have antioxidant properties, and that Centella asiatica has reparative properties towards the connective tissue. A retrospective study was designed in order to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a compound consisting of micronized flavonoids in combination with vitamin C and extracts of C. asiatica, Vaccinium myrtillus, and Vitis vinifera for grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease.

Patients and Methods: Data of 49 patients, over 18, who were following a free diet regimen, not on therapy with other anti-hemorrhoid agents, treated with a compound consisting of 450 mg of micronized diosmin, 300 mg of C. asiatica, 270 mg of micronized hesperidin, 200 mg of V. vinifera, 160 mg of vitamin C, 160 mg of V. myrtillus, 140 mg of micronized quercetin, and 130 mg of micronized rutin (1 sachet or 2 tablets a day) for 7 days were collected. Hemorrhoid grade according to Goligher’s scale together with anorectal symptoms (edema, prolapse, itching, thrombosis, burning, pain, tenesmus, and bleeding) both before treatment (T0) and after 7 days of therapy (T7) were collected. Primary outcomes were the reduction of at least one degree of hemorrhoids according to Goligher’s scale assessed by proctological examination and compound safety. The secondary outcome was the reduction of anorectal symptoms assessed by questionnaires administered to patients.

Results: Forty-four patients (89.8%) presented a reduction in hemorrhoidal grade of at least one grade (p < 0.001). No adverse events with the use of the compound were noted. A significant reduction was observed in all anorectal symptoms evaluated (p < 0.05). No predictors of response to the compound were identified among the clinical and demographic variables collected.

Conclusion: The compound analyzed was effective and safe for patients with grade II and III hemorrhoidal disease according to Goligher’s scale.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Risk Factors in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction After Emergency Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Cao Xiaocui , Wu Jiaqi , Gu Yuqin , Liu Xuemei , Deng Yaping , Ma Chunhua
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to investigate the status and risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after emergency percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute and convalescence phases. A longitudinal study design was used. Two questionnaire surveys were conducted in the acute stage of hospitalization, and 3 months after onset in patients. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for PTSD in AMI patients. The incidence of PTSD was 33.1 and 20.4% in acute and convalescent patients, respectively. The risk factors related to PTSD were door-to-balloon time (DTB) (≥92.6 min), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (<50%), smoking, anxiety, and depression. AMI patients after PCI had PTSD in the acute and convalescent stage. The findings indicate that tailored measures should be developed and carried out to prevent PTSD and improve the mental health of patients with AMI after undergoing PCI.
Effect of Employee–Customer Interaction Quality on Customers’ Prohibitive Voice Behaviors: Mediating Roles of Customer Trust and Identification
Authors: Chen Guofu , Li Shuhao
Published: December 2021

Given that customer voice behaviors are confused with customer complaint behaviors in usage, this study thoroughly explains the essential differences between the two constructs. On that basis, this study investigates how employee–customer interaction (ECI) quality affects customers’ prohibitive voice behaviors, which is an crucial type of customer voice behaviors, by examining customer trust and identification as mediators. Data from 395 restaurant customers are collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling. Results show that ECI quality positively affects customers’ prohibitive voice behaviors. In this effect, customer trust and identification play direct and sequential mediating roles. This study contributes theoretically to the current knowledge by clearly distinguishing customer voice behaviors from customer complaint behaviors and by providing new insights into the mechanism of customers’ prohibitive voice behaviors from the perspectives of service interaction and relational benefit enhancement. The practical implications of this study can help pointedly foster customers’ prohibitive voice behaviors.
Flying High in Academia—Willingness of University Staff to Perform Low-Carbon Behavior Change in Business Travel
Authors: Thaller Annina , Schreuer Anna , Posch Alfred
Published: December 2021

This study aims to explore the factors that influence business travel decisions of university staff, in particular the extent and ways in which they are willing to reduce emission-intensive air travel, and the personal and structural barriers to such behavior change. Three strategies to reduce air travel were investigated: abstaining from particular events, substituting travel through virtual participation and mode shifting to ground-based public transport. We tested the effects of (1) specific decision factors for engaging in long-distance travel, choosing specific modes of travel and choosing virtual solutions; (2) former travel activities; (3) postponed trips due to COVID-19; and (4) sociodemographic factors, on the willingness of individuals to reduce air travel in a sample of university employees. We calculated regression models for the three strategies and added a qualitative analysis of open-ended comments. Former travel behavior as well as pro-environmental considerations play significant roles, influencing the willingness of employees to change their business travel behavior. Furthermore, we found that willingness to reduce air travel depends on the scope of behavior change. Although travel behavior is unevenly distributed across different subgroups, sociodemographic factors only play a minor role in the regression models. The present study adds to the limited body of quantitative research on the reduction potential of academic air travel, presenting an examination of university staff's willingness to change their long-distance travel behavior. Implications for university polices are discussed.
A Novel Titanium Cranioplasty Technique of Marking the Coronal and Squamosoparietal Sutures in Three-Dimensional Titanium Mesh as Anatomical Positioning Markers to Increase the Surgical Accuracy and Reduce Postoperative Complications
Authors: Xie Bing-Sen , Wang Fang-Yu , Zheng Shu-Fa , Lin Yuan-Xiang , Kang De-Zhi , Fang Wen-Hua
Published: December 2021

Objective: The objective of this research is to modify the titanium cranioplasty (Ti-CP) technique to increase the surgical accuracy and preliminarily verify the effectiveness and safety of this improvement.

Methods: We developed a novel technique of marking the coronal and squamosoparietal sutures in three-dimensional (3D) titanium mesh as anatomical positioning markers and designed a prospective trial in patients with a unilateral frontotemporoparietal skull defect. Patients were randomly divided into two groups by the presence or absence of the anatomical positioning markers, and the therapeutic effects of these two groups were compared.

Results: Forty-four patients were included in this study, including 28 (64%) males and 16 (36%) females. The mean age was 44.8 ± 15.2 years (range, 13–75 years). Overall postoperative complication rate of the intervention group (18%) was significantly (P = 0.03) lower than the control group (50%). Surgical accuracy of the intervention group (97.8%) was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than the control group (94%). Visual analog scale for cosmesis (VASC) of the intervention group (8.4) was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than the control group (7). The overall postoperative complication rate was 34%. Multivariate analyses showed that surgical accuracy <95.8% (OR = 19.20, 95% CI = 3.17–116.45, P = 0.001) was significantly associated with overall postoperative complications. Independent predictor of overall postoperative complications was surgical accuracy (OR = 0.57, 95% CI = 0.40–0.82, P = 0.002).

Conclusions: This novel technique for repairing frontotemporoparietal skull defects increases surgical accuracy, improves cosmetic prognosis, and reduces postoperative complications. Therefore, it is a safe and effective improvement for Ti-CP.
Detection and Characterization of the Soybean Allergen Gly m 7 in Soybeans and Processed Soybean Foods
Authors: Fukuzumi Ayano , Tokumasu Naoki , Matsuo Ayato , Yano Erika , Zaima Nobuhiro , Moriyama Tatsuya
Published: December 2021

Gly m 7, a novel soybean allergen, was recently reported. In this study, we attempted to detect Gly m 7 in various soybeans and processed soybean foods using raised anti-Gly m 7 antibodies and enzyme-linked streptavidin, specifically binding to the biotin moiety of Gly m 7. There was a large difference in Gly m 7 levels in various soybean-processed foods. When Gly m 7 levels were determined, all cultivars contained this allergen almost completely, but the biotin moiety detected by streptavidin varied, suggesting that biotinylated levels of Gly m 7 might differ among cultivars. The thermal stability of Gly m 7 was determined by heating soybean extracts. During detection using anti-peptide antibodies, detectable intact Gly m 7 was gradually reduced by heating. Gly m 7 was not detected by peptide or biotin detection in worm-wounded soybeans. Soybeans were immersed in distilled water as a pretreatment step for germination, and Gly m 7 levels were compared by immersion time (4–96 h). Intact Gly m 7 was rapidly degraded in detection by both peptide and biotin moieties. This suggested that Gly m 7 was degraded by some protease(s) during germination. These results would be useful for understanding the properties or risk assessment of Gly m 7, a newly discovered soybean allergen.
Hydrogels Made of Poly-γ-Glutamic Acid and Sugar Alcohols for Enhanced Survival of Probiotic Strains Subjected to Low pH and Freeze Drying
Authors: Kwiecień Iwona , Ekere Anabel Itohowo , Śmiga-Matuszowicz Monika
Published: December 2021

Probiotics are microorganisms that have a beneficial influence on the human gastrointestinal tract. Unfortunately, their viability can be negatively affected by manufacturing, storage conditions and gastrointestinal tract conditions. Therefore, there is a need to develop delivery systems, which can protect probiotics against adverse conditions. Previously, we reported on hydrogels made of poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) and selected PEGs with the potential application as probiotic delivery vehicles. In the next step of research, we decided to develop fully biobased hydrogels with the potential application as probiotic oral-delivery systems. Selected sugar alcohols, erythritol, xylitol and sorbitol, have been used as cross-linkers in the synthesis of γ-PGA-based hydrogels. It was examined if obtained hydrogels enhanced the survival rate of entrapped probiotic strains subjected to acidic conditions. Results have been discussed in relation to the previously reported γ-PGA-PEG hydrogels. Moreover, the possibility of using developed hydrogels as a cryoprotectant was investigated during freeze drying of entrapped probiotic cells.
Mass Transfer Features of Wavy-Bottomed Cascade Photobioreactors
Authors: Moroni Monica , Sed Giorgia , Cicci Agnese , Mazzarotta Barbara , Verdone Nicola , Torzillo Giuseppe , Bravi Marco
Published: December 2021

It has been suggested that the energy-efficient production of microalgae biomass can be more easily obtained in short light path photobioreactors that can be operated at high biomass concentration. On the downside, however, high biomass concentrations also require an efficient gas exchange rate to avoid metabolic growth limitation or inhibition. A cascade photobioreactor featuring a thin liquid layer flowing down a sloping, wavy-bottomed surface can be operated at a biomass concentration that is much higher compared to most usual open-type equipment. Liquid flow, upon investigation, proved to exhibit peculiar “local recirculation” hydrodynamics, potentially conducive to the mixing of superficial and deep zones of the photobioreactor. Mass transfer coefficient represents a useful parameter to optimize the performance of a microalgal photobioreactor and its scale-up. The aim of the present article is to discuss the experimental mass transfer features of this novel type of photobioreactor and highlight expected opportunities and issues entailed by different ways of installing and operating such novel types of photobioreactors.