bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Laboratory Prognosticators of Atrophic Papulosis (Degos Disease): A Systematic Review
Authors: Lu Justin D. , Sachdeva Muskaan , Silverberg Orli M. , Shapiro Lee , Croitoru David , Levy Rebecca
Published: February 2021

Background: Degos disease is a rare vascular disorder with a cutaneous-limited form, benign atrophic papulosis (BAP), and a systemic variant, malignant atrophic papulosis (MAP). Despite the poor prognosis of MAP, no study has established features associated with systemic disease.Objectives: The aims of this systematic review were to: (1) summarize clinical features and treatments implemented for patients with MAP and BAP (2) identify clinical and laboratory factors associated with the development of MAP, compared to BAP.Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE and Embase from inception to April 2020. Demographic and clinical features of Degos patients were presented descriptively; multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify associations with MAP.Results: We identified 99 case studies, comprising 105 patients. MAP (64%) had a 2.15 year median survival time from cutaneous onset, most often with gastrointestinal or central nervous system involvement. We found that elevations in either of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP) were associated with systemic involvement (OR 2.27, p=0.023). Degos secondary to an autoimmune connective tissue disease was found to be inversely associated with MAP (OR 0.08, p=0.048).Conclusions: Elevated ESR or CRP is associated with MAP and may be a predictor of systemic involvement for patients with Degos disease. In addition, secondary Degos disease is associated with a favourable prognosis. Clinicians should be aware of the differences between primary and secondary Degos and the utility of ESR or CRP in identifying disease evolution to systemic involvement. The utility of ESR and CRP to identify systemic involvement should be further explored.
Extraction of Protein Isolates From Grouper (Epinephelus Diacanthus) Filleting Waste Using pH Shift Method; Influence of Process Variables on Recoveries
Authors: Shafiq Uzair , Baraiya Kirankumar Gopalbai , SURASANI VIJAY KUMAR REDDY , Joshi Sagar , Varadaraju Raju Chikoppa
Published: February 2021

Recovery of proteins from grouper (Epinephelus diacanthus) filleting waste was done using isoelectric solubilization method. During the isolation, influence of process variables such as; temperature, ratio of solvent and homogenate, pH, time of centrifugation and speed of centrifugation on protein yields was studied. It was observed that the homogenate to solvent ratio, centrifugation speed protein recoveries. For isolating the proteins from grouper waste using pH shift process the optimum conditions found were; pH-11.0 in alkaline range, pH 3.0 in acidic range, 120 min extraction time, homogenate to solvent ratio of 1:6 and centrifugation speed of 10000 rpm. During the pH shift processing of grouper proteins myoglobin, total pigments and lipid content of proteins were reduced by 90.77, 70.79 and 82.69%, and 93.91, 79.59 and 82.04%, in alkaline and acidic extraction process, respectively. A significant increase in the lightness and whiteness values of the isolates was observed as compared to the raw material. Protein isolates obtained using acidic solubilisation process were found to be whiter than alkali-aided protein isolate.
Fine Mapping of Hybrid Necrosis Gene Ne1 in Common Wheat (Triticum Aestivum L.)
Authors: Si Yaoqi , Zheng Shusong , Niu Jianqing , Tian Shuquan , Shi Xiaoli , He Yilin , Li Yiwen , Ling Hong-Qing
Published: February 2021

Hybrid necrosis is characterized as progressive chlorosis and necrosis of plant leaves, tillers or whole plants premature death in certain wheat hybrids, which is caused by the combination of two complementary loci Ne1 and Ne2 located on chromosome arms 5BL and 2BS, respectively. Hybrid necrosis s is a serious barrier for combining desirable traits from various genotypes of wheat and the full utilization of heterosis in wheat. In this study, we fine mapped Ne1 on chromosome 5BL, and finally delimited Ne1 to a 4.06-Mb region with large heterogeneous inbred families (HIFs) from the RILs of ‘Zhengnong 17’ × ‘Yangbaimai’. Further characterization of the near isogenic lines derived from HIFs confirmed that Ne1 was tightly linked with a 2.89-Mb fragment that is deleted in Zhengnong 17. Additionally, a diagnostic InDel marker 5B-InDel385 for Ne1 was developed and was used to assess the existence of Ne1 in a diverse panel of 501 wheat accessions. Among them, 122 (61%) out of 200 landraces showed the presence of Ne1 gene, whereas only 79 (26%) out of 301 modern cultivars carried the Ne1 gene. The drastic decrease of Ne1 frequency in modern cultivars indicates that the Ne1 has been subjected to heavily selection pressure. This study provides a good foundation for the marker-assisted selection, gene cloning and functional studies of Ne1 in wheat.
Nickel Nanoparticles with Superior Catalytic Activity for Autonomous Decomposition of Ammonium Percholorate
Authors: Elbasuney Sherif , Yehia M. , Ismael Shukri
Published: February 2021

Nickel nanoparticles with partially filled d-shell could offer advanced catalytic performance; to common solid propellant catalysts (ferric oxide). This study reports on the facile fabrication of nickel and ferric oxide catalysts of 10 nm, and 5 nm particle sizes respectively. Fabricated particles were re-dispersed in organic solvent and effectively integrated into ammonium percholorate (AP). Elemental mapping confirmed uniform particle dispersion into APC. The catalytic efficiency of nickel was evaluated to Fe2O3 particles using DSC and TGA. AP demonstrated endothermic crystallographic phase change at 242 0C, with subsequent two exothermic decomposition reactions. Nickel demonstrated decrease in endothermic phase change by 49 % compared with 39 % for ferric oxide; this action means high catalytic activity with low activation energy. Whereas AP demonstrated total heat release of 742 J/g; nickel offered enhanced heat output by 89 % compared with 57 % for ferric oxide. The two main decomposition peaks were merged into single peak. Nickel demonstrated decrease in main decomposition temperature by 105 oC compared with 62 oC for ferric oxide. This manuscript shaded the light on nickel as novel emergent nanocatalyst with superior performance for advanced energetic systems.
Oligoclonal Immunoglobulin Gamma Bands and Long-Term Disability Progression in Multiple Sclerosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Karrenbauer Virginija Danylaité , Bedri Sahl , Hillert Jan , Manochehrinia Ali
Published: February 2021

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) patients without the typical oligoclonal bands (OCB) distribution of immunoglobulin gamma (IgG) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has a different genetic background and brain MRI features than OCB-positive MS patients. It is less clear if OCB presence indicates differences in clinical aspects of MS.
Objective

To determine whether CSF OCB status is associated with long-term disability outcomes.
Methods

We used Swedish MS register data on clinically definite MS patients with known OCB status. Date of birth, MS onset and date at sustained Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score milestones 3, 4, 6, date at conversion to secondary progressive (SP) MS, sex, and immunomodulatory treatment (IMTs) duration were collected. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to investigate the association between OCB status and risk of reaching each milestone.
Results

The OCB-positive group reached disability milestones at an earlier time and at younger age. OCB positivity significantly increased the risk of reaching EDSS score 3.0 (HR = 1.29, 95%CI: 1.12 to 1.48, P < 0.001) and 4.0 (HR = 1.38, 95%CI: 1.17 to 1.63, P < 0.001) but non-significantly for EDSS 6. The OCB-positive group had a 20 % higher risk to convert to SPMS.
Conclusion

Patients with or without CSF OCBs share a risk of long term progression and for conversion to SPMS. Presence of OCBs in the CSF is associated with higher risk to reach EDSS milestones and a higher risk to convert to SPMS. Our findings suggest higher disease modifying effect of OCB presence in the early inflammatory stages of MS.
Laparoscopic Uterosacral Ligament Suspension versus Sacrospinous Ligament Fixation for Apical Prolapse: Perioperative Outcomes
Authors: Gabra Martina , Winget Veronica , Torabi Mohammad T , Addis Ilana , Hatch Kenneth , Heusinkveld John
Published: February 2021

Background: Pelvic organ prolapse can be repaired vaginally or laparoscopically. Studies comparing vaginal repair with sacrospinous ligament fixation (SSLF) or uterosacral ligament suspension (V-USLS) have found no difference in functional or adverse outcomes. Laparoscopic USLS (L-USLS) is becoming a popular treatment for pelvic organ prolapse because it has a low rate of ureteral compromise. To date, no studies have compared perioperative outcomes between L-USLS and SSLF. The objective of this study is to compare the rates of perioperative complications (intraoperative and postoperative complications) between these two methods.Methods: This was a retrospective chart review of 243 consecutive patients who underwent L-USLS or SSLF at one institution between 3/2017 and 8/2019 for apical pelvic organ prolapse. Descriptive data was analyzed as appropriate with student t-tests and Chi Square. Univariable Logistic Regression analysis was performed to assess predictors of perioperative complications.Results: Preoperative Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification Stage (POP-Q) was similar between the two cohorts (p=0.23). After adjusting for confounding factors, L-USLS was associated with a longer operative time (118 vs 142 min, p <0.01) and shorter length of hospitalization (0.68 vs 1.06 days, p <0.01). The estimated blood loss between the procedures was not statistically significant after adjusting for confounding factors. There was no difference in perioperative complication rates between L-USLS and SSLF (5% vs 7%, p = 0.55). No clinical risk factors were significantly associated with perioperative complications.Conclusion: We did not find a difference in complications between L-USLS and SSLF.
ERK5 Transmits Shear Force Stimulation Signals of Chondrocyte Cultured in an Optimized in Vitro Shear Force Model
Authors: Song Jin-qi , Wang Xue-bing , Huang Ding-gen , Deng Xue-feng
Published: February 2021

Background: In clinical practice, cartilage arthritis caused by cartilage tissue damage is difficult to treat due to the slow regeneration of cartilage tissue. In recent years, the orthopedic researches dedicate to promote the regeneration process. Recent reports reveal that appropriate shear force stimulation will exhibit an acceleration on proliferation and phenotypic differentiation of chondrocytes. At the same time, recent advances in 3D printing technology have made autologous cartilage tissue transplantation possible in clinical. Since the in vitro culture of autologous chondrocytes can provide a large amount of cell materials for clinical treatment, the optimization of in vitro culture conditions has become an urgent problem to be solved. For this reason, this study introduced an in vitro fluid shear force loading system and explored a set of optimal shear force parameters. Result: On the basis of these parameters, the in vitro proliferation speed and phenotypic differentiation level of chondrocytes are better than that of static culture. In addition, we used RNA interference to reduce the expression of ERK5 and proved that ERK5 is a key factor for chondrocytes to transmit shear force stimulation signals. Conclusion: These results have the opportunity to provide a theoretical basis for in vitro culture of chondrocytes and clinical treatment of cartilage injury.
Nigella sativa itself and as a part of a balm inhibits activity of purified 20S proteasome
Authors: Tkach Y. M. , Tkach I. Y. , Beketova H. V. , Pashevin D. O. , Nagibin Vasyl S. , Dosenko V. E.
Published: February 2021

Background.

Ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal proteolysis is the perspective target for the therapy of the high amount of different diseases. the special attention is paid to the therapy of inflammatory processes of both origins: infection and aseptic. Besides proteolytic processing of the inhibitor of NFkappaB proteasome is important for activation of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) and neutrophil extrcellular traps (NETs) formation. Basing on the mentioned above information we have evaluated some plant extracts included in the medical compound «Healthy Tonsils» that is used for the treatment of the chronic tonsillitis for their ability to inhibit activity of 20S proteasome.
Methods.

For in vitro experiments the purified 20S proteasome was used. 20S proteasome was incubated for 30 minutes at 36 C degrees in a mixture with phytobalm components. After the next 30 minutes of incubation with 6 microM solution of corresponded fluorogenic substrates the measurement of fluorescence products was performed (exciting/emission wave length was 360/440) on the spectrofluorimeter Hitachi-4000 with the use of free 7-amido-4-methylcoumarine for a standard curve.
Results.

In the same concentrations the compounds investigated has demonstrated different ability to inhibit activity of purified 20S proteasome. The most effective compound was the extract of Nigella sativa that inhibits chemotrypsin-like and caspase-like activities of purified 20S proteasome on 69 % and 85 % correspondingly.
Conclusions.

Thus, our results allow to explaine the anti-inflammatory activity of phytobalm particularly by ability of some of its compounds to inhibit proteasomal proteolysis.
The Relationship Between Physical Activity, Physical Fitness and Body Composition in Preschool (3-6 Years)
Authors: Serrano-Gallén Guiomar , Palencia Natalia María Arias , González-Víllora Sixto , Gil-López Víctor , Solera-Martínez Monserrat
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPhysical Activity (PA), body composition and fitness in children has been associated with short and long-term health benefits. However, little research that analizes these variables focuses on the Preschool Education stage. For this reason, the aim of this research is to study the relationship between PA, fatness and fitness in the Preschool Education stage (3-6 years).MethodsThis study included 230 children (109 boys and 121 girls) aged 3 to 5 years old with a mean age of 4.92±0.84. Body composition and fitness were assessed using PREFIT battery and a sit and reach test. For the multiple linear regression models of this study, we only included a total of 151 (65.65%) children in which PA levels were measured using accelerometers for seven days.ResultsThere were differences in the fitness test between boys and girls. There were not significant differences in fitness tests between normal-weight and over-weight children, except in handgrip strength in which over-weight children had better results. There was no significant association between body composition and PA subcomponents. Higher PA levels were related with better physical fitness values.DiscussionThe few studies that have studied the relationship between fatness, physical fitness and PA in Preschool have had controversial results. These differences might be caused by different reasons: different tests, age of the participants, sample size, study design, etc. were used.ConclusionsPA is associated with better physical fitness performance in Preschool children, although fitness is also influenced by sex in these ages. Thus, generally, except in the case of flexibility, boys obtained better results in fitness tests than girls. However, body composition does not seem to be related to PA or sex in Preschool children.
Surfactant protein A /D-CD14 is Associated with Phagocytosis of Nanomaterials and Cytokine Production by Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Xu Jiegou , Wang Qiqi , Wang Qiong , Zhao Ziyue , Fan Jingbo , Qin Linghan , Alexander David B. , Tsuda Hiroyuki , Zhao Dahai
Published: February 2021

Background: Alveolar macrophages are responsible for clearance of airborne dust and pathogens. How they recognize and phagocytose a variety of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) with different properties is an important issue for safety assessment of ENMs. Surfactant-associated proteins, specifically existing in the pulmonary surfactant, are important opsonins for phagocytosis of airborne microorganisms. The purposes of the current study are to understand whether opsonization of ENMs by surfactant-associated proteins promotes phagocytosis of ENMs and cytokine production and to find out a common pathway for ENMs with different properties. Results: 4 ENMs including MWCNT-7, TIO2, SIO2, and fullerene C60, each with different shape, size, chemical composition and surface reactivity, were chosen for the study. Short-term pulmonary exposure of MWCNT-7, TIO2, SIO2, and C60 induced inflammation in the rat lung, and most of the administered ENMs were phagocytosed by alveolar macrophages. The ENMs were phagocytosed by isolated primary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) in vitro, which was enhanced by the rat bronchioalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), suggesting that proteins in BALF were associated with the phagocytosis. Further analysis of the 4 ENMs-bound proteins by LC/MS indicated that surfactant-associated proteins A and D (SP-A, SP-D) were common binding proteins for all the 4 ENMs. Like BALF, SP-A, but not SP-D, enhanced TNF-a production in the MWCNT-7-treated PAMs; both SP-A and SP-D increased IL-b production in the TIO2-or SIO2-stimulated PAMs; while SP-A and SP-D enhanced IL-6 production in the C60-stimulated PAMs. Knockdown of CD14, a receptor for SP-A/D, significantly reduced the cytokine production and ENMs phagocytosis. Conclusions: These results indicate that SP-A/D can opsonize all the studied ENMs to enhance phagocytosis of the ENMs by alveolar macrophages through CD14, suggesting that SP-A/D-CD14 is a common pathway mediating phagocytosis of ENMs. Cytokine production induced by ENMs, however, is dependent on what an ENM is phagocytosed. Our results are helpful for the understanding of clearance of ENMs by alveolar macrophages and mechanisms of different ENMs-induced lung toxicity.
Lima Bean Growth, Leaf Stomatal and Nonstomatal Limitations to Photosynthesis, and 13C Discrimination in Response to Saline Irrigation
Authors: Liu Xuan , Suarez Donald L.
Published: February 2021

Soil salinization is a widespread problem severely impacting crop production. Understanding how salt stress affects growth-controlling photosynthetic performance is essential for improving crop salt tolerance and alleviating the salt impact. Lima bean (Phaseolus lunatus) is an important crop, but little information is available on its growth and leaf gas exchange in relation to a wide range of salinity. In this study, the responses of leaf gas exchange and whole plant growth of lima bean (cv. Fordhook 242) to six salinities with electrical conductivity (EC) of 2.9 (control), 5.7, 7.8, 10.0, 13.0, and 15.5 dS·m−1 in irrigation waters were assessed. Significant linear reduction by increasing salinity was observed on plant biomass, bean yield, and leaf net carbon assimilation rate (A). As EC increased from the control to 15.5 dS·m−1, plant biomass and A decreased by 87% and 69%, respectively, at the vegetative growth stage, and by 96% and 83%, respectively, at the pod growth stage, and bean yield decreased by 98%. Judged by the linear relations, the reduction in A accounted for a large portion of the growth reduction and bean yield loss. Salinity also had a significantly negative and linear effect on leaf stomatal conductance (gS). Leaf intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) and leaf C13 isotope discrimination (Δ13) declined in parallel significantly with increasing salinity. The A-Ci curve analysis revealed that stomatal limitation [Lg (percent)] to A increased significantly and linearly, from 18% to 78% and from 22% to 87% at the vegetative and pod-filling stages, respectively, as EC increased from the control to the highest level. Thus, relatively nonstomatal or biochemical limitation [Lm (percent), Lm = 100 − Lg] to A responded negatively to increasing salinity. This result is coincident with the observed Δ13 salt-response trend. Furthermore, leaf carboxylation efficiency and CO2-saturated photosynthetic capacity [maximum A (Amax)] were unaffected by increasing salinity. Our results strongly indicate that the reduction in lima bean A by salt stress was mainly due to stomatal limitation and biochemical properties for photosynthesis might not be impaired. Because stomatal limitation reduces A exactly from lowering CO2 availability to leaves, increasing CO2 supply with an elevated CO2 concentration may raise A of the salt-stressed lima bean leaves and alleviate the salt impact. This is supported by our finding that the external CO2 concentration for 50% of Amax increased significantly and linearly with increasing salinity at the both growth stages. Leaf water use efficiency showed an increasing trend and no evident decline in leaf chlorophyll soil plant analysis development (SPAD) readings was observed as salinity increased.
ANALYSIS OF WAYS TO INTENSIFY FLOCCULATION OF FINELY DISPERSED SLIME
Authors: Shestopalov Oleksii , Ponomarova Nataliia
Published: February 2021

The object of research is the process of the slime cleaning of the coal preparation plant from suspended solids by flocculation. The process of flocculation is multifactorial and depends on the concentration of the solid phase in the slime, the dispersed composition, the salinity, the pH of the medium, the concentration and degree of dilution of the flocculant and many other factors that have not been adequately studied in the current literature. Based on previous studies, it was suggested that the flocculant was introduced into the slime in two portions in an amount of 40 % and 60 % of the total flow. The aim of research is an experimental check of the influence of methods of dispersing and introducing the first portion of the flocculant onto the efficiency of sedimentation of the slime on the real slime. For this, in the diluted slime with water in a ratio of 1:1, the first portion of the flocculant is introduced in two ways: after diluting the slime with water and into the water before mixing it with the slime. It is established that the preliminary dispersion of the flocculant in a large volume of water leads to a significant increase (above 80-85 %) in the sedimentation rate of the formed floccules, as well as their strength to mechanical action
Formation of the Maoniuping giant REE deposit: Constraints from mineralogy and in situ bastnäsite U-Pb geochronology
Authors: Weng Qiang , Yang Wu-Bin , Niu He-Cai , Li Ning-Bo , Mitchell Roger H. , Zurevinski Shannon , Wu Dan
Published: February 2021

The time and processes of hydrothermal mineralization are long-standing problems in geology. This work addresses these questions with reference to the Maoniuping giant rare earth elements (REE) deposit (southwest China), which has rare earth oxides (REO) reserves of 3.17 million tons with an average grade of 2.95 wt%. Bastnäsite is the dominant economic mineral, occurring as four distinct paragenetic types in the Maoniuping syenite–carbonatite complex: (1) primary euhedral bastnäsite (type-A) in syenite, with isolated melt inclusions; (2) macro-crystalline tabular euhedral bastnäsite (type-B) in pegmatitic dikes, with a diverse variety of fluid inclusions; (3) fine-grained, anhedral veinlet-disseminated bastnäsite (type-C) in syenite; and (4) coarse-grained anhedral bastnäsite (type-D) in carbonatite dikes, occurring as veinlets or interstitial to calcite, fluorite, and barite. From the paragenetic and compositional variations, it is inferred that type-A bastnäsite is of primary magmatic origin, whereas the other three types have characteristics of hydrothermal origins. In situ LA-ICP-MS U-Pb geochronology of the four types of bastnäsite results in lower intercept ages of 28.2 ± 0.5 Ma (n = 95, MSWD = 5.10), 27.8 ± 0.4 Ma (n = 43, MSWD = 0.73), 26.8 ± 0.7 Ma (n = 50, MSWD = 0.83), and 25.8 ± 0.7 Ma (n = 55, MSWD = 1.70), respectively, which are consistent with the weighted average 206Pb/238U and 208Pb/232Th ages by 207Pb-correction method. Compositional variations of clinopyroxene and apatite from the associated syenite, pegmatitic and carbonatitic dikes indicate a genetic relationship of the Maoniuping alkaline complex. The compositions of clinopyroxene range from Ae44–67Di14–18Hd17–41 in pegmatitic dikes, Ae43–66Di6–20Hd21–38 in carbonatitic dikes to Ae68–90Di0–3Hd10–30 in syenite. Apatites in the pegmatitic and carbonatitic dikes have similar compositions with higher F, total REE, and Sr, and lower CaO contents than those in the syenite, which suggests a cogenetic origin for the associated pegmatite and carbonatite. Clinopyroxene and apatite compositions suggest that the pegmatitic melt might differentiate directly from the initial carbonatitic melt rather than the syenitic magma. The bastnäsite U-Pb geochronology and minerals data indicate continuous magmatic-hydrothermal evolution for the REE mineralization in the Maoniuping alkaline complex.
Topological interpretation of color exchange invariants: hexagonal lattice on a torus
Authors: CEPAS Olivier , Akhmetiev Peter M.
Published: February 2021

We explain a correspondence between some invariants in the dynamics
of color exchange in the coloring problem of a 2d regular hexagonal lattice, which are polynomials of
winding numbers, and linking numbers in 3d. One invariant
is visualized as linking of lines on a special surface with Arf-Kervaire invariant one, and
is interpreted as resulting from an obstruction to transform the surface into its chiral image
with special continuous deformations. We also consider additional constraints on the dynamics and see how the surface is modified.
VIDROS AUTOMOBILÍSTICOS COMO VESTÍGIOS DE CENA DE CRIME: UMA ABORDAGEM MULTIVARIADA
Authors: Rodrigues Caio , Bruni Aline
Published: February 2021

AUTOMOBILISTIC GLASSES AS CRIME SCENE TRACES: A MULTIVARIATE APPROACH. Glasses are common trace evidence elements in crime scenes, and the analysis of this material can be essential for evaluating different criminal dynamics. This work aimed to analyze the possibility of differentiating and classifying windshield glass using multivariate analysis methods. Automotive glass fragments from different vehicle brands were evaluated according to internal and external faces. We have collected from literature EDXRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence) data for different oxides concentrations. These data were organized in a matrix with 56 samples and nine variables. We applied unsupervised (PCA, Principal Component Analysis) and supervised (SIMCA, Soft Interclass Modeling Classification Analogy) methods. We assessed the classification responses through ROC (Receiver Operating Characteristics). As a result, the PCA indicated the presence of two groups of glasses in three main components. SIMCA verified the unsupervised classification, and the distances and interclass residues parameters were adequate with no outliers. The ROC analysis indicated a sensitivity of 0.793, a specificity of 0.815, and an efficiency of 0.804 for predictions. We concluded that multivariate analysis was successful in discriminating between the internal and external faces of automotive glasses.
Secret Agents of the Russian Gendarmerie in the Fight against Espionage at the Beginning of the First World War
Authors:   Omsk Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia, Zverev V. O. , Polovnikov O. G. ,   Omsk Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia
Published: February 2021

The article discusses the limited intelligence capabilities of the gendarmerie departments of the Warsaw Governor General (Lomzinska, Warsaw, Kielce, Lublin, and Radom provinces) in the fight against German and Austrian spies in the second half of 1914 and the first half of 1915. One reason for the secret police’s lack of readiness is the reluctance of the gendarmerie-police authorities to organize counter-response work on an appropriate basis. The rare, fragmentary, and not always valuable information received by agents of the investigating authorities did not allow the gendarmes to organize full-scale and successful operational work on a subordinate territory to identify hidden enemies of the state. The low potential, and, in some cases, the complete uselessness of secret service personnel for the interests of the military wanted list led to the fact that most politically disloyal persons were accidentally identified by other special services. In most cases, spies were detected either due to information from army intelligence and counterintelligence agencies, or due to the vigilance of military personnel of the advanced units of the Russian army. The authors conclude that the gendarmerie departments were unable to organize a systematic operational escort of military personnel of the Russian armies deployed in the Warsaw Military District. Despite the fact that the duty of the gendarmerie police included not only criminal procedures, but also operational searches, there was no qualified identification of spies with the help of secret officers.
Expeditions in Search of the Site of the Battle on the Ice (Based on the G. N. Karayev Expeditionary Diaries)
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Krivosheev Yu. V. , Sokolov R. A. ,   Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia
Published: February 2021

An assessment of the reliability of results obtained during the work of the Combined Expedition, aimed at clarifying the location of the Battle on the Ice of 1242, has gained particular relevance over the last decades. Unpublished sources still not in scholarly circulation, especially diaries kept by expedition leader G. N. Karayev in 1956–1960, but these have a great significance for studying this problem. An analysis of their content allows ones to specify that at the first stage (in 1956) there was preliminary research (field trip, examining data from historical studies on the microregional geography, collecting information from locals). In 1957, thanks to the efforts of G. N. Karayev, specialized organizations were involved in performing such tasks as diving work, and after 1958 the expedition’s significantly expanded activities were done under auspices of the Academy of Sciences of the USSR. Documents preserved in the archive indicate that all the observations were carried out according to plan and were thoroughly recorded. Moreover, research that required special skills (diving work skills, work with equipment, etc.) were carried out exclusively by the people with special training. The documents also convey the emotional atmosphere that used to rule in this expedition: enthusiasm and the desire of participants to qualitatively complete the task.
The crisis of the “Liberal International Order” and the challenges from China and Russia
Authors:   University of Bari, de Robertis Antonio Giulio , Tkachenko Stanislav ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: February 2021

The concept of “Liberal International Order” (LIO) is one of the most popular in contemporary international relations. LIO received global recognition and became a key factor of international politics after the Second World War. Studies of the LIO have gone through periods of peaks and valleys since the Second World War. Nowadays, the studies are once again at the epicenter of political discussions. Academic studies of the LIO face difficult challenges since the concept has found itself in a ‘grey zone’ between two well-established disciplines — political science and economics. Two factors, which signaled a deep crisis of the LIO are: 1) disaffection of people living in Western democracies in multiple negative effects of globalization; 2) the progressive rising of powers such as China and Russia, whose political regimes are currently defined as illiberal. For many states in different parts of the world, the LIO did not generate prosperity for a majority of their population. Rather it led to an economically painful transformation from previous socio-economic systems as well as rising inequality. Member states of BRICS and of SCO have been and still are more respectful of the principles of the traditional Liberal International Order than the USA and western European countries. China currently is promoting a non-Western version of globalization, but it is still globalization with low customs barriers and the free movement of people, services and capital.
Poly-participant and multidimensional world: On the way to a new theory of international relations
Authors:   Institute of History, Archeology and Ethnography of Peoples of Far East, Far Eastern Branch of Russian Academy of Science, Boldyrev Vitalii
Published: February 2021

In the early 21st century several conditions favorable for a new theory of international relations have been formed in Russia. New trends in interstate relations have clearly been displayed and Russian foreign policy needs to update its theoretical and conceptual foundations. A new philosophical basis has been formed as Russian IR theory is in crisis. To overcome the crisis, the framework of a new IR theory is suggested. It rests on existing theories and concepts that satisfy the principles of post-non-classical philosophy of science, the concept of Russian foreign policy, the fact that contemporary world events cannot be explained using the previously created concepts, and interdisciplinarity which does not lead to the erosion of the language of science in regard to IR.These sources made it possible to identify a number of fundamental provisions for the new IR theory: the interpretation of chaos as an order with unknown laws, recognition of each state as a self-sufficient participant in international relations, multivariativity of foreign policies, and the understanding of the world as a non-polar system. On their basis, a framework was developed for the theory of a poly-participant and multidimensional world where the main elements are states (participants) and non-state actors. According to the theory, the world has several dimensions: space, dynamical time, structural time, a set of subsystems (functional spheres), level, and control. Balance is ensured by the balance of foreign policies and reactions to them, which are determined by the interests of states, the influence and power of states in certain regions or functional fields. This sets the curvature of the world, which makes it change constantly. In the event of imbalance or a weakening of control, a vacuum appears and it provokes the development of uncontrolled processes. Such a complex structure of the modern world allows us to characterize it as a network that defines contemporary international relations as relational.
1,4-dioxane degradation using a pulsed switching peroxi-coagulation process
Authors: Lu Yaobin , Shi Hualei , Yao Jialiang , Liu Guangli , Luo Haiping , Zhang Renduo
Published: February 2021

Widely used in chemical product manufacture, 1,4-dioxane is one of the emerging contaminants, and it poses great risk to human health and the ecosystem. The aim of this study was to degrade 1,4-dioxiane using a pulsed switching peroxi-coagulation (PSPC) process. The electrosynthesis of H2O2 on cathode and Fe2+ production on iron sacrifice anode were optimized to enhance the 1,4-dioxane degradation. Under current densities of 5 mA/cm2 (H2O2) and 1 mA/cm2 (Fe2+), 95.3 ± 2.2% of 200 mg/L 1,4-dioxane was removed at the end of 120 min operation with the optimal pulsed switching frequency of 1.43 Hz and pH of 5.0. The low residual H2O2 and Fe2+ concentrations were attributed to the high pulsed switching frequency in the PSPC process, resulting in effectively inhibiting the side reaction during the ·OH production and improving the 1,4-dioxane removal with low energy consumption. At 120 min, the minimum energy consumption in the PSPC process was less than 20% of that in the conventional electro-Fenton process (7.8 ± 0.1 vs. 47.0 ± 0.6 kWh/kg). The PSPC should be a promising alternative for enhancing 1,4-dioxane removal in the real wastewater treatment.
Graph Indices for Cartesian Product of F-sum of Connected Graphs
Authors: Liu Jia-Bao , Imran Muhammad , Baby Shakila , Siddiqui Hafiz Muhammad Afzal , Shafiq Muhammad Kashif
Published: February 2021

Background:

A topological index is a real number associated with a graph that provides information about its physical and chemical properties and their correlations. Topological indices are being used successfully in Chemistry, Computer Science, and many other fields.

Aim and Objective:

In this article, we apply the well-known Cartesian product on F-sums of connected and finite graphs. We formulate sharp limits for some famous degree-dependent indices.

Results:

Zagreb indices for the graph operations T(G), Q(G), S(G), R(G), and their F-sums have been computed. By using orders and sizes of component graphs, we derive bounds for Zagreb indices, F-index, and Narumi-Katayana index.

Conclusion:

The formulation of expressions for the complicated products on F-sums, in terms of simple parameters like maximum and minimum degrees of basic graphs, reduces the computational complexities.
Human Galectin-1 in Multiple Cancers: A Privileged Molecular Target in Oncology
Authors: Goud Nerella Sridhar , Bhattacharya Ahana
Published: February 2021

Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a 14kDa carbohydrate-binding protein of the galectin family found in
humans, affects intracellular signaling pathways upon interaction with β-galactosides on cell-surface,
cytosol, and nucleus. The structural information reveals that it consists of a monovalent dimer composed
of subunits with one Carbohydrate Recognition Domain (CRD), which is the main active site to
interact with various glycoproteins, and carbohydrates in the body to regulate cellular functions. Gal-1
contributes towards different events associated with cancer biology, including tumor transformation,
cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, cell adhesion, migration, and inflammation. The extracellular existence
and function of Gal-1 have been well-established, and it is known to express in many tumor
types, including astrocytoma, melanoma, prostate, colon, bladder, and ovarian carcinomas, etc. Several
studies suggested the upregulation of Gal-1 levels in multiple cancer cells. Thus, Gal-1 is a promising
molecular target for the development of new therapeutic tools. The present review focuses on the
functions of Gal-1 in tumor progression in multiple cancers and its structural insights.
Effective Downregulation of BCR-ABL Tumorigenicity by RNA Targeted CRISPR-Cas13a
Authors: Singh Aditya , Bhatia Prateek
Published: February 2021

Aim:

To induce BCR-ABL gene silencing using CRISPR Cas13a.

Background:

CML is a clonal myeloproliferative disorder of pluripotent stem cells driven by a reciprocal
translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22 forming a BCR-ABL fusion gene. Tyrosine-
kinase inhibitor drugs like imatinib are the mainstay of treatment and cases resistant to these
drugs have a poor prognosis in the absence of a compatible stem-cell donor. However with rapid
advancements in gene-editing technologies most studies are now focusing on developing a translational
model targeting single-gene disorders with a prospective permanent cure.

Objective:

To explore the potential application of the RNA targeting CRISPR-Cas13a system for
effective knockdown of BCR-ABL fusion transcript in a CML cell line K562.

Methods:

CRISPR Cas13a crRNA was designed specific to the chiCRISPR Cas13a crRNA was designed specific to the chimeric BCR-ABL gene and the
system was transfected as a two-plasmid system into a CML cell line K562. The effects were enumerated
by evaluating the expression levels of downstream genes dependent on the expression of
the BCR-ABL gene. Also next-generation sequencing was used to ascertain the effects of CRISPR
on the gene.meric BCR-ABL gene and the system was transfected as a two-plasmid system into a CML cell line, K562. The effects were enumerated by evaluating the expression levels of downstream genes dependent on the expression of the BCR-ABL gene. Also, next-generation sequencing was used to ascertain the effects of CRISPR on the gene.

Results:

The CRISPR system was successfully able to lower the expression of downstream genes
[pCRKL and pCRK] dependent on the activated BCR-ABL kinase signal by up-to 4.3 folds. The viability
of the CRISPR-treated cells was also significantly lowered by 373.83-fold [p-value=
0.000891196]. The time-dependent kinetics also highlighted the significant in-vitro suppressive activity
to last up to 8 weeks [p-value: 0.025]. As per the cDNA sequencing data from the Oxford
MinION next-generation sequencer the CRISPR treated cells show 62.37% suspected cleaved
reads.

Conclusion:

These preliminary results highlight an excellent potential application of RNA targeting
CRISPRs in Haematological neoplasms like CML and should pave the way for further research
in this direction.
An Improved and Suitable Method for Large Scale Production of
α-Monochlorocyclodecanone
Authors: Ou Wenhua , Wang Ruolin , Liu Ruonan , Huang Hong
Published: February 2021

:

α-Monochlorocyclododecanone was synthesized from cyclododecane and 1,3-Dichloro-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (DCDMH) catalyzed with silica gel in MeOH. The product was obtained by crystallization with nearly 85% yield. The presented method used cheap raw materials, mild reaction conditions, simple separation method and environment-friendly process. Additionally, the current synthesis provided an ideal approach for large-scale production.
Extract of Moringa concanensis Nimmo Leaves Ameliorates Hyperglycemia and Oxidative Stress, and Improves β-cell Function in Alloxan Monohydrate Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Singh Amerendra , Mishra Jai Narayan , Singh Santosh Kumar , Vishwakarma Vishal Kumar , Paswan Shravan Kumar
Published: February 2021

Background:

The ethanomedicinal importance of Moringa concanensis Nimmo plant is
reflected in the Ayurvedic and traditional system of medicine. It has vast usage in Ayurvedic preparation
and diabetes management.

Aims of the Study:

The research was centered on bringing out the hyperglycemic capabilities of
Moringa concanensis Nimmo leaves, and their ethanolic extract (PE) on alloxan monohydrate
(AXM) induced diabetic rat model.

Materials and Methods:

Wistar rats were made diabetic by AXM and treated with PE (200 mg/kg
body weight) and glibenclamide as the standard drug. All essential parameters like fasting blood
glucose (FBS), post-prandial blood glucose (PPBS), AST, ALT, ALP, ACP, LDH, and oxidative
stress markers were measured. Also, to observe β-cells structures, histology of the pancreas was
studied.

Results:

The non-toxicity of PE dose was confirmed by an acute toxicity study. This study model
helped determine the anti-hyperglycemic effects of PE by decreasing FBS and PPBS levels in diabetic
rats. It also enhanced oxidative stress by decreasing MDA levels and elevating the GSH and
SOD. The histopathological analysis helped us study the structural decay of β-cells of pancreatic
tissues in diabetic rats. PE potential was confirmed by serum enzymes AST, ALT, ALP, ACP, and
LDH as it showed a significant decrease in diabetic rats.

Conclusion:

It was confirmed from the data that PE is efficient in the governance and control of diabetes.
Therefore, there is a need to work at the molecular level to utilize its potential for the benefit
of society.
A Nonlinear Anisotropic Diffusion Equation for Image Restoration with Forward-backward Diffusivities
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Kumar Nitendra , Alam Khursheed
Published: February 2021

Background:

In the image processing area, deblurring and denoising are the most challenging
hurdles. The deblurring image by a spatially invariant kernel is a frequent problem in the
field of image processing.

Methods:

For deblurring and denoising, the total variation (TV norm) and nonlinear anisotropic
diffusion models are powerful tools. In this paper, nonlinear anisotropic diffusion models for image
denoising and deblurring are proposed. The models are developed in the following manner: first
multiplying the magnitude of the gradient in the anisotropic diffusion model, and then apply priori
smoothness on the solution image by Gaussian smoothing kernel.

Results:

The finite difference method is used to discretize anisotropic diffusion models with forward-
backward diffusivities.

Conclusion:

The results of the proposed model are given in terms of the improvement.
Visões de Lisboa em dissonância: dinâmicas do poder no espaço urbano e escritas em trânsito
Authors: Fazzini Luca
Published: February 2021

This article aims to analyse the literature produced in Europe and in Portugal in particular, by people in transit, contemporary migrants, focusing on the dissonances present in these texts in relation to the he-gemonic collective imaginary. Considering the urban dynamics and the action of public power in Lisbon, as well as the representation of the city space in contemporary literary texts - including the novel Luanda, Lisboa, Paraíso (2018), by Djaimilia Pereira de Almeida -, this article highlights the relationship between contemporary capitalist development and colonial persistence in the daily life of the city of Lisbon.
Luís Alberto de Abreu e a peça "Um dia ouvi a Lua": a poética aristotélica como cânone
Authors: Faria Luís
Published: February 2021

This article discusses how the use of Brazilian colloquial language and the epic theatrical elements in the play One day I saw the moon (Um dia ouvi a Lua), written by Luís Alberto de Abreu, compose the work’s mechanisms of this Brazilian playwright. These mechanisms allow the author to build his own dramatic poetic works based on storytelling. Abreu dialogues with the Aristotle’s Poetics, or the Aristotelian canon. The playwright attempts to know how the epic genre works according to Aristotle and he brings this idea to the Brazilian reality. Abreu makes a contemporary form of theatrical art. This art does not deny the canon and it does not accept the canon like an untouchable form.
Quem (não) tem medo da literatura negra? O amor negro no combate ao genocídio do branqueamento
Authors: Assis Mariana Santos de
Published: February 2021

Historically, the idea has been constructed that the literary canon is a selection based solely on the quality of the text. Such a perspective, in addition to ignoring the undeniable power relations involved in the process, also ends up hampering the creative possibilities of many artists. In this work we will discuss some aspects of these conflicts, mainly associated with the importance of the struggle for the valorization of black litera-ture, not only as a fundamental artistic manifestation, but also as an instrument to fight the genocide of the black population, undertaken now through the defense of the miscegenation myth redemptive, the basis of the policy of whitening the Brazilian population since the end of slavery, now for the idea of a homogene-ous nationalism common to all. We understand that the best way to combat this process of extermination is to value love and the black family and only literature is capable of giving a new meaning to the centuries of brutalization and animalization of black bodies and affections.
'Talvez um dos Doze de Inglaterra (treze, na verdade, se a história estiver bem contada)' ou de como revisitar o cânone para reinventar outra narrativa: reflexões em torno de "O Magriço", de Tiago Salazar
Authors: Valentim Jorge Vicente
Published: February 2021

The present work aims to reflect on the most recent novel by the Portuguese writer Tiago Salazar, O Magriço (2020), seeking to observe some important points in its construction, since the idea launched in the subtitle of the work (“The true story of D. Álvaro Gonçalves Coutinho, one of the Twelve of England”) until its genological categorization (“historical novel”). Therefore, the postulates of Maria de Fátima Marinho (1999), Mário César Lugarinho (2005) and Umberto Eco (1985), among other important sources, will be articulated to think about how the author expands the constitutive boundaries of the textual typology to compose a novel that revisits the Camonian canon not only to reinvent another narrative, but also to reveal the simplicity and the dissidence of historical agents, often painted solely in heroic tones, as well as their bitterness and their unpleasantness.