bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjacent-segment effects of lumbar cortical screw–rod fixation versus pedicle screw–rod fixation with and without interbody support
Authors: Wangsawatwong Piyanat , Sawa Anna G. U. , de Andrada Pereira Bernardo , Lehrman Jennifer N. , O’Neill Luke K. , Turner Jay D. , Uribe Juan S. , Kelly Brian P.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

Cortical screw–rod (CSR) fixation has emerged as an alternative to the traditional pedicle screw–rod (PSR) fixation for posterior lumbar fixation. Previous studies have concluded that CSR provides the same stability in cadaveric specimens as PSR and is comparable in clinical outcomes. However, recent clinical studies reported a lower incidence of radiographic and symptomatic adjacent-segment degeneration with CSR. No biomechanical study to date has focused on how the adjacent-segment mobility of these two constructs compares. This study aimed to investigate adjacent-segment mobility of CSR and PSR fixation, with and without interbody support (lateral lumbar interbody fusion [LLIF] or transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion [TLIF]).

METHODS

A retroactive analysis was done using normalized range of motion (ROM) data at levels adjacent to single-level (L3–4) bilateral screw–rod fixation using pedicle or cortical screws, with and without LLIF or TLIF. Intact and instrumented specimens (n = 28, all L2–5) were tested using pure moment loads (7.5 Nm) in flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. Adjacent-segment ROM data were normalized to intact ROM data. Statistical comparisons of adjacent-segment normalized ROM between two of the groups (PSR followed by PSR+TLIF [n = 7] and CSR followed by CSR+TLIF [n = 7]) were performed using 2-way ANOVA with replication. Statistical comparisons among four of the groups (PSR+TLIF [n = 7], PSR+LLIF [n = 7], CSR+TLIF [n = 7], and CSR+LLIF [n = 7]) were made using 2-way ANOVA without replication. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Proximal adjacent-segment normalized ROM was significantly larger with PSR than CSR during flexion-extension regardless of TLIF (p = 0.02), or with either TLIF or LLIF (p = 0.04). During lateral bending with TLIF, the distal adjacent-segment normalized ROM was significantly larger with PSR than CSR (p < 0.001). Moreover, regardless of the types of screw-rod fixations (CSR or PSR), TLIF had a significantly larger normalized ROM than LLIF in all directions at both proximal and distal adjacent segments (p ≤ 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of PSR versus CSR during single-level lumbar fusion can significantly affect mobility at the adjacent segment, regardless of the presence of TLIF or with either TLIF or LLIF. Moreover, the type of interbody support also had a significant effect on adjacent-segment mobility.
Incidence of adjacent-segment surgery following stand-alone lateral lumbar interbody fusion
Authors: Nayar Gautam , Roy Souvik , Lutfi Waseem , Agarwal Nitin , Alan Nima , Ozpinar Alp , Hamilton D. Kojo , Okonkwo David O. , Kanter Adam S.
Published: June 2021

OBJECTIVE

Adjacent-segment disease (ASD) requiring operative intervention is a relatively common long-term consequence of lumbar fusion surgery. Although the incidence of ASD requiring reoperation is well described for traditional posterior lumbar approaches (2.5%–3.9% per year), it remains poorly characterized for stand-alone lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF). In this study, the authors report their institutional experience with ASD requiring reoperation after LLIF over an extended follow-up period of 4 years.

METHODS

Medical records were reviewed for 276 consecutive patients who underwent stand-alone LLIF by a single surgeon for degenerative spinal disorders. Inclusion criteria (single-stage, stand-alone LLIF without posterior supplementation, with no prior lumbar instrumentation, and a minimum of 4 years of follow-up) were met by 182 patients, who were analyzed for operative ASD incidence (per-year rate), demographics, and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score. Operative ASD was strictly defined as new-onset pathology following index surgery at directly adjacent levels to the prior construct. Operative, rather than symptomatic or radiographic, ASD was analyzed to provide a consistent and impactful endpoint while avoiding retrospective diagnosis.

RESULTS

The study cohort of 182 patients had an operative ASD rate of 3.3% (n = 6 procedures) over 4 years of follow-up, for an incidence on Kaplan-Meier survival analysis of 0.88% (95% CI 0.67%–1.09%) per year. In comparing patients with operative ASD with those without, there were no significant differences in mean age (53.7 vs 56.2 years), male sex (33.3% vs 44.9%), smoking status (16.7% vs 25.0%), or number of levels fused (mean 1.33 vs 1.46). The operative ASD cohort had a greater mean BMI (37.3 vs 30.2, p < 0.01). Operative ASD patients had lower baseline ODI scores (33.8 vs 48.3, p = 0.02); however, no difference was observed in ODI at 6 weeks (34.0 vs 39.0) or 3 months (16.0 vs 32.8) postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of ASD in LLIF for degenerative lumbar etiologies in this cohort was 0.88% (95% CI 0.67%–1.09%) per year. Meanwhile, the reported reoperation rates for ASD in posterior spinal approaches was 2.5% to 3.9% per year, which implies that LLIF may be preferable for well-selected patients.
Physicsmetrics, another approach to model physics systems. Application on solar panel behaviour. Advantages and complementarities with the physic’s approach.
Authors: Leila Ouzeri
Published: June 2021

The aim of this work is to present two different approaches for modeling a photovoltaic panel (PV) fully illuminated. Generally, the physic’s model (White box) takes into account the physic, electronic and energetic behavior of different compound of the system’s model, as function of the solar irradiance and operating temperature. The statistician model (Black box) using the Design of Experiment method considers a physical system as a black box with various inputs (factors) and outputs (responses). Each approach has specific advantages, they are complementary.
A Greek Source for the Treatise on the Composition of Man Attributed to Aḥūdemmeh Anṭīpaṭrōs?
Authors: Benfey Thomas
Published: June 2021

Here I establish the close relationship between a large portion of the Syriac Treatise on the Composition of Man attributed to Aḥūdemmeh Anṭīpaṭrōs, originally published by Chabot in 1943, and the Greek pseudo-Hippocratic treatise originally published as On the Formation of Man by Jouanna in 2006, arguing that one of these texts must be a translation of the other. While firm conclusions about the direction, place and time of this translation must await an improved edition of the Syriac text, I make several suggestions on these points as well. I also show that the Greek pseudo-Hippocratic text may need to be revised, since certain manuscripts consistently agree with the Syriac against others.
From Tigris to Jerusalem: East Syriac Poetic Notes from the Ottoman Time
Authors: Pritula Anton
Published: June 2021

The poems published and studied here - most of them for the first time - represent literary tastes of East Syriac educated circles of the Ottoman period. These text collections appeared as later additions in the manuscripts written by ʿAbdīšōʿ of Gāzartā, the Uniate East Syriac Church poet and the second patriarch (1555-1570). These small texts, usually having very little or even nothing to do with the main manuscript text, represent a kind of verse notes made by different pilgrims, and reflect popular poetic tastes of the period. Short poems, especially quatrains, are an ideal form for such poetic activities. Judging from their great number, the spread of short poems was constantly increasing since the time the Syriac Renaissance, when they were first borrowed from Arabic and Persian poetry. Apparently, the multi-lingual poems of the Mongol period (second half of the 13th-early 14thcentury) - the heyday of the Syriac tradition in the Islamic period - were treated as appropriate models to portray contemporary cultural life of the multi-lingual Christian communities in the Ottoman Empire.
PENGARUH PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE FORMULATE SHARE LISTEN CREATE TERHADAP PEMAHAMAN KONSEP MATEMATIS SISWA
Authors: Usmadi Usmadi , Ramdantini Sarah , Ergusni Ergusni
Published: June 2021

ABSTRAK Pemahaman konsep matematis siswa SMP Negeri 5 Padangpanjang belum berkembang secara optimal. Salah satu penyebabnya, guru belum melibatkan siswa secara aktif dalam proses pembelajaran. Untuk mengaktifkan siswa dalam proses pembelajaran dan meningkatkan kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematis siswa salah satunya dengan menerapkanÂ  model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe formulate-share-listen-create (FSLC). Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengungkapkan ada tidaknya pengaruh model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe formulate-share-listen-create terhadap kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematis siswa. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian kuasi eksperimen, dengan one grup pretest-posttest design. Sampel ditarik berdasarkan teknik random sampling, sampel yang terpilih yaitu siswa kelas VII.3 SMPN 5 Padangpanjang dengan jumlah sampel sebanyak 29 orang. Penelitian dilaksanakan pada semester genap tahun pelajaran 2019/2020. Data dikumpulkan melalui tes dan kemudian dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji t sampel berpasangan. Simpulan hasil analisis dataÂ  bahwa setiap indikator kemampuan pemahaman konsep matematis siswa meningkat secara signifikan. Melalui uji t pada taraf kepercayaan 95% diperoleh kesimpulan terdapat pengaruh penerapan model pembelajaran kooperatif tipe FSLC terhadap kemampuan pemahaman konsep siswa.
Effect of process variables on the physicochemical and rheological properties of yogurt
Authors: Paz-Díaz Héctor J. , Mora-Vergara Lia Z. , Navarro-Arana Cristian E. , Navarro Alba Sofia , Pacheco-Valderrama Mónica María
Published: June 2021

In this research, the effect of the lactic starter culture, the fermentation time, the incubation temperature and the percentage of fat on the firmness and consistency of a fermented milk drink was evaluated through physicochemical characteristics of total acidity, pH, syneresis and flow behavior. The purpose was to find the best formulation that extends the shelf life of yogurt, leading to an improvement in the manufacturing process of a local dairy company in Barrancabermeja (Santander, Colombia). Quality criteria were evaluated by means of the percentage of acidity and pH of the yogurt, as well as its syneresis and rheological parameters during a storage time of 24 hours and 7 days in refrigeration. Acceptable quality parameters were obtained for the yogurt prepared with an inoculum concentration of 2%, an incubation temperature of 40°C and an incubation time of 150 minutes. In addition, better properties of firmness and consistency were found, with absence of syneresis and viscosity in the accepted range, for this dairy product.
AN ANALIYSIS OF STUDENTS’ ABILITY IN IDENTIFYING MAIN IDEA IN NARRATIVE PARAGRAPH OF THE FIRST GRADE AT SMA PUTERI SION MEDAN
Authors: Sitohang Deniati , Damanik Damerita , Capah Kembar Rosari , Purba Resperdiana
Published: June 2021

This study aims to provide an overview of the analysis of class X SMA Putri Sion Medan in identifying and knowing the difficulties experienced by class X Puteri Sion students in determining the main ideas in the narrative paragraphs. This research uses a qualitative approach,and the tool of data collection was used written test. The sample consisted of 11 students. In conducting the research, the researcher got the result that the students' ability to identify main ideas in narrative paragraphs was in a very bad category. Based on the analyzed data, it was found that 3 students (27.28%) got a score of 81-90 (very good), 1 student (9.09%) got a score of 61-70 (enough), 2 students (18.18%) got a score grades 51-60 (poor), and 5 students (45.44%) scored less than 50 (very bad). Most of the students scored in the very poor category. After analyzing the ability to identify main ideas in narrative paragraphs, it is known that the ability to identify main ideas in class X Puteri Sion Medan is in a very bad category. The difficulties that students face when identifying the main idea in a narrative paragraph are a lack of interest in learning that makes them lazy to read, lack of vocabulary knowledge, their vocabulary is very small, and poor reading strategies.Keywords: Analysis, students’ ability, narrative Text
AN ANALYSIS OF SLANG LANGUAGE STYLES USED IN CHARLIE’S ANGELS MOVIE
Authors: Situmorang Renita Krisdayanti , Herman Herman
Published: June 2021

This study was focused on determine the types of use slang language style. The types of slangs were analyzed from “Charlie’s Angels” movie. Theories used in this research were Sumarsono (2007) about the types of slang language style and Zhou & Fan (2013) about the functions of slang language. This study was conducted using a descriptive qualitative method.This research is the kind of content analysis study based on the way to do qualitative research. The way to collects the data are; downloading movie, watching movie and downloading movie subtitle. The data were from a movie entitled “Charlie’s Angels” in the year of 2019 with action-comedy genre.After conducting the analysis, this study showed that there were four types of slang language style from six types of slang language. They were clipping, creative, uses the existing words and metaphor. Creative was found as the most dominant types of slang language style in the movie with 10 data (40%), metaphor with 7 data (28%), uses the existing words with 5 data (20%) and clipping with 3 data (12%). Finally, the reseacher hopes that this study will be useful for the future improvement of studying literature, especially about slang language style
ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ МОНИТОРИНГ ТЕХНОГЕННОГО ЗАГРЯЗНЕНИЯ ПО АНАТОМИЧЕСКИМ ПОКАЗАТЕЛЯМ ДОМИНАНТНЫХ РАСТЕНИ
Authors: Boribay Elmira , Shayakhmetova Intyk , Usubalieva Saltanat , Tynybekov Bekzat , Nurmakhanova Akmaral
Published: June 2021

В статье рассматриваются проблемы индукции анатомо-морфологического строения растений разных жизненных форм в условиях длительного хронического действия ионизирующих излучений на территории поселка Калачи Акмолинской области. В результате проведенных исследований по изучению анатомических особенностей надземной части растений, произрастающих на территории бывших урановых шахт, было установлено, что под действием урановых месторождений в растениях или на отдельных его органах происходят структурные изменения. В частности, уменьшается толщина листовой пластинки, увеличиваются размеры клеток верхнего эпидермиса, увеличивается толщина эпидермиса и площадь проводящих сосудов. Было установлено, что при условиях радиоактивного загрязнения с увеличением активности ионизирующих излучений у растений возникает ответная реакция, происходят изменения во внутренней структуре вегетативных органов (изменение размеров проводящих пучков, толщины эпидермиса, размеров первичной коры и листовой пластинки). Также было установлено, что изменение морфологических признаков имеет видоспецифический характер. Такие адаптационные признаки возникают под действием комплекса экологических факторов, в том числе и радиационного загрязнения.
ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF INTEGRATION PROCESSES
Authors: Dabyltayeva Nazym , Turarova Aliya
Published: June 2021

Agroindustrial integration, which is an organic union and effective functioning of specialized agricultural, industrial and processing enterprises in order to obtain final products from agricultural raw materials and achieve greater economic benefit through mutual material interest, has gained practical relevance in modern conditions, when various organizational forms of integration began to emerge. The problem of further development of both agricultural production and processing industry should be solved by creating a mutually beneficial and mutually stimulating mechanism of cooperation between them. The importance of ensuring technological, economic and organizational unity of production, processing, procurement and sale of agricultural products determines the need for the development of integration processes in the agroindustrial complex. Agroindustrial integration solves the problems of accumulating financial resources to solve the priority areas of development of agriculture and its service spheres, the improvement of the financial condition of enterprises and organizations of agroindustrial production, the expansion of opportunities to market the products of agricultural producers. At the present stage integration develops on the basis of the movement of investments, for which certain state norms and rules have been created, proposals for institutions - organizations have been developed to promote the inflow of investments in the regions as well as in the agrarian sector of the economy. Economic integration in the agroindustrial complex and certain food subcomplexes is aimed at establishing interaction and business cooperation between various economic entities and their partners in technologically, organizationally and economically interrelated sectors of the economy. Any integration structure is focused on improving the use of partners’ production potential on the basis of mutual interest and close mutually beneficial cooperation.
The immediate effect of thoracolumbar manipulation and diaphragmatic release on inspiratory muscle strength in healthy smokers: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Albarrati Ali , Taher Mohammed , Nazer Rakan , Alshameri Thamer
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation have been found effective in restoring normal diaphragmatic movement in healthy and diseased populations. Smoking has deleterious effects on human systems, including the musculoskeletal system. OBJECTIVE: The current study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation on diaphragm muscle strength in healthy smokers. METHODS: A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted on 30 asymptomatic healthy smokers randomly assigned into two groups [intervention group (IG) and sham group (SG)] with 15 participants each. The IG received thoracolumbar manipulation and diaphragmatic release techniques, while the SG received no active treatment. The outcome measure was sniff nasal inspiratory pressure (SNIP). RESULTS: The IG showed a significant increase in the SNIP with a mean difference of 20.13 cmH2O (95% CI: 13.62–26.64; P< 0.001), while the SG had a reduction in the SNIP value -3.27 cmH2O (95% CI: -0.65 to -5.89; P= 0.02). Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation significantly improved SNIP values immediately after the intervention, with a between-group difference of 31.07 cmH2O (95% CI: 15.26–46.87; P< 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Diaphragmatic release technique and thoracolumbar manipulation increased the diaphragm strength in healthy adult smokers, suggesting its potential utility in the management of participants with reduced respiratory muscle strength.
Assessment of central aponeurosis curvature as an index of rectus femoris muscle overstrain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Okura Kazuki , Kinoshita Kazuo , Seto Arata , Saito Akira , Kimoto Minoru , Okada Kyoji
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: In medial knee osteoarthritis (knee OA), compensatory overstrain of the rectus femoris (RF) muscle leads to its hypertrophy. We hypothesize that besides hypertrophy of the RF, a prominent flattening of the central aponeurosis (CA) curvature is also indicative of RF. This study aims to evaluate the structural changes in the CA and clarify the conditions associated with RF overstrain in knee OA. OBJECTIVE: Twenty-three legs of 20 elderly without knee OA (elderly group) and 26 legs of 20 individuals with K-L grade II knee OA (knee OA group) with typical “comma”-shaped CA participated in this study. METHODS: The knee extension torque (Nm/kg) in the sitting position, the thickness of the RF and vastus intermedius (VI) muscles (VI), and change in CA curvature (%Curvature) were measured at the mid-thigh by ultrasonography. RESULTS: The knee extension torque was not significantly different between the two groups. Compared to the elderly group, the knee OA group had significantly thicker RF at rest, while the VI thickness during contraction was significantly smaller. The %Curvature was significantly higher in the knee OA group than in the elderly group. CONCLUSIONS: In the knee OA group, the RF was hypertrophic with a more pronounced CA flattening during muscle contraction, although the other quadriceps muscles were atrophic, suggesting an overstrained RF. Assessing thickness and CA curvature of the RF is, therefore, useful and simple for evaluating overstrain caused by RF compensation.
Maigne Syndrome – A potentially treatable yet underdiagnosed cause of low back pain: A review
Authors: Randhawa Shubreet , Garvin Gregory , Roth Michael , Wozniak Artur , Miller Thomas
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: First discussed by Dr. Robert Maigne in the late 1980s, Maigne Syndrome is an often unrecognized and treatable cause of low back pain. It can be separated into two distinct entities. The central variant is a result of nerve afferent input secondary to changes of facet joint arthropathy at the thoracolumbar junction. The peripheral variant is a result of impingement of the medial branch of the superior cluneal nerve, which arises from the posterior rami of the lower thoracic and upper lumbar nerve roots, and results in similar clinical symptoms and signs. OBJECTIVE: To review the current literature for a comprehensive description of Maigne Syndrome, its diagnosis and management. METHODS: Evidence was gathered using two main medical databases, namely PubMed and Google Scholar. Search terms included ‘Maigne’s Syndrome’, ‘Maigne facet’, ‘thoracolumbar junction syndrome’, ‘cluneal nerve entrapment’, ‘posterior iliac crest trigger point’, ‘pseudosciatica’, as well as various permutations of these terms. RESULTS: The initial search generated 52 articles. These were screened, and duplicate and irrelevant articles were removed. Using the remaining articles, and with evaluation of their cited references, we selected 28 articles for review. Most of these consisted of case reports, many of which were published in rehabilitation, chiropractic and medical journals. The papers explored topics such as anatomy, cluneal nerve imaging, and treatment of nerve entrapment and facet related back pain syndromes, and have been included in this review, which is, to the best our knowledge, the most comprehensive description of Maigne Syndrome to date. CONCLUSION: The keys to the diagnosis of Maigne Syndrome include an awareness of the mechanical causes of back dominant pain, an understanding of the relevant anatomy, a specific clinical examination, and focused radiological guided anesthetic blocks. Treatment is available, and as in all back-pain etiologies, is most effective in the early stages of the disease.
Comparison of two different feedback techniques for activating the transversus abdominis: An observational study
Authors: Dülger Esra , Bilgin Sevil , Karakaya Jale , Soylu Abdullah Ruhi
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: The transversus abdominis (TrA) is an important muscle for spinal stabilization. The abdominal draw-in maneuver (ADIM) is a method that selectively activates the TrA without overactivation of the external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO). Individuals with low back pain may have trouble in understanding proper contraction of the TrA. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the differences between two feedback techniques to re-educate the TrA. METHODS: One hundred eighty healthy volunteers (123 female, 57 male) were randomized into two groups. The ADIM was performed with different feedback methods: conventional (verbal and tactile) feedback and visual feedback from real-time ultrasound images. RESULTS: A within-group comparison revealed a significant increase in the thickness of the TrA, IO, and EO during the ADIM (p< 0.001) in both groups. The mean change (SD) in the thickness of the TrA and IO between rest and the ADIM was an increase of 2.541.25 and 1.882.14 in group 1 and 1.821.27 and 1.241.87 in group 2, respectively (p< 0.001). No significant differences were observed in EO thickness between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although visual biofeedback shows a greater effect on ADIM training, both approaches are applicable, and clinicians may decide on which to use based on their clinical environment and experience.
Association of endocan expression with clinicopathological prognostic parameters in breast carcinoma
Authors: Celik Zeliha Esin , Demir Fatih , Yonar Harun , Ugras Serdar
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer (BC) is a common malignancy in women. Some molecules, including endocan, are still under investigation as potential prognostic factors in BC. OBJECTIVE: In the present study, we aimed to determine the relationship between endocan expression and clinicopathological prognostic parameters in BC. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-five patients diagnosed with BC were included in the present study. The immuno-reactivity scoring (IRS) system was used to reveal the tissue endocan expression levels. RESULTS: We found that endocan expression is associated with tumor necrosis, tumor size, and the presence of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) in BC. There was no relationship between endocan expression and survival as well as other clinicopathological prognostic parameters. CONCLUSION: Endocan overexpression in BC is associated with some prognostic parameters, including tumor necrosis, tumor size, and the presence of LCIS. Further studies with larger series are needed to reveal the clinical and therapeutic implications of endocan in BC.
Aquaporin-8 is a novel marker for progression of human cervical cancer cells
Authors: Li Weibo , Song Yizuo , Pan Chunyu , Yu Junhui , Zhang Jianan , Zhu Xueqiong
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Role of aquaporin-8 (AQP8) in cervical cancer has not been fully elucidated. OBJECTIVE: We aim to explore the impacts of AQP8 on viability, apoptosis and metastasis in cervical cancer cells. METHODS: AQP8 protein expression in cervical carcinoma specimens and cell lines was detected by IHC and western blot analysis. Lentivirus-mediated transfection was used to upregulate and knockdown AQP8 in cells. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Transwell experiments were conducted to investigate cell invasive and migratory capabilities. EMT-related markers were detected by western blot analysis. RESULTS: A strong positive of AQP8 protein expression was observed in cervical cancer tissues. Western blot analysis confirmed overexpression and knockdown of AQP8 in SiHa cells. AQP8-overexpressed SiHa cells displayed an enhanced viability, reduced apoptotic rate, increased invasive and migratory abilities. Knockdown of AQP8 inhibited the viability, promoted the apoptosis, and suppressed invasion and migration. Furthermore, AQP8 overexpression significantly upregulated vimentin and N-cadherin, and downregulated E-cadherin, which were reversed by AQP8 knockdown. CONCLUSIONS: AQP8 increases viability, inhibits apoptosis, and facilitates metastasis in SiHa cells. This may be associated with EMT-related markers regulated by AQP8. AQP8 could serve as a potential marker for cervical cancer progression.
Making the Case for Reforms of Forestry Policy and Law: Lessons and Experiences from Nigeria
Authors: Fajemirokun Bola
Published: June 2021

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development incorporates 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 15 (SDG 15) focuses on terrestrial ecosystems. Regarding forests, it sets targets requiring signatories to promote the implementation of the sustainable management of all types of forests by 2020 and further mobilize significant resources from all sources to achieve sustainable forest management. The United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests 2017 – 2030 advances the vision of SDG 15. Nigeria’s high demographic growth rate has led to the surging demand for land to support settlements and farming. Coupled with extensive illegal or uncontrolled logging, the annual forest net loss of 5% is one of the highest rates globally in percentage terms. This paper is a critical analysis of the policy-law interface of the forestry sector in Nigeria. It examines the country’s trajectory or state of preparedness for sustainable forest management, and it concludes that forestry policy and law in Nigeria must undergo urgent reforms so that the forest commitments such as those under SDG 15 and other regional and global instruments can be ultimately achieved.
Rent Soil Theory Versus Sustainable Development Goals in Indonesia: Environment Law Perspective
Authors: Hananto Pulung Widhi Hari , Trihastuti Nanik , Muhammad Rizki Dzulfiki , Bismono Ramadhan Catur
Published: June 2021

Indonesia is known as a rich country with its forests and various biodiversity. In regard to the issue of forest use and management in Indonesia, there are always pros and cons in how to manage the forest properly. To support the economic sector in Indonesia, the government always optimizes forest functions and clearing forests for the business sector. In practice, Indonesia implements soil-rent theory, which triggers polemics because there is friction with sustainable development goals (SDG). This article is using normative research method. Later on, this article will discuss the gap between the rent soil theory and sustainable development goals (SDGs) with the comprehensively approach to environmental law.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis revealed cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase genes correlated with fruit-firmness in strawberry
Authors: Wang Ping , Yang Jing , Li Zi-Yi , Zhu Jia-Jun , Gao Qing-Hua , Ni Di-An , Duan Ke
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND:

Strawberry fruits are perishable with a short post-harvest life. Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is the key enzyme for lignin biosynthesis strengthening plant cell wall. A systematic characterization of strawberry CAD family is absent and their involvement in fruit firmness is largely elusive.

OBJECTIVE:

Current work aims for a genome-wide identificationof CAD family and its expression correlation with fruit firmness in strawberry varieties.

METHODS:

A genome-scale identification and molecular characterization for CADs were performed in the commercial strawberry ( Fragaria× ananassa) and woodland strawberry ( F. vesca). qPCR analysis of CAD homoeologs in three cultivars varying with fruit firmness revealed candidate CAD members positively correlated with lignin content and fruit firmness.

RESULTS:

A total of 14 and 24 CAD loci were identified in the genomes of F. vesca var. Hawaii4 and F. × ananassa cv. Camarosa, respectively.Phylogenetic analysis supported a division of this family into three classes. Class I FvCAD each has four homoeologs in commercial strawberry, while those of Class II and Class III have only one or two homoeologs. Except for FvCAD2 and -6, there exits at least one pair of CADs sharing ∼97% or above amino acid identity between F. vesca and F. × ananassa.The flesh firmness and lignin content varied greatly among strawberry germplasm. Distinct dynamic changes in fruit lignin content were observed before the large green stage, but fruit firmness displayed a similar decrease profile during fruit development in three varieties. Of the eight genes detected in F.× ananassa, FvCAD3 and -12 did not display a F. vesca-biased expression pattern during fruit development. FvCAD4 of Class I was expressed at levels positively correlated with variation in fruit lignin content at white stage.Transcript abundance of five Class IIgenes including FvCAD3, - 8, - 10, - 11, and - 12 was positively correlated with lignin content and fruit firmness, with FvCAD10 and - 11 ( FaCAD in previous publication) reaching an extremely significant correlation with the genetic variation in fruit firmness across three varieties.

CONCLUSION:

Strawberry Class II CADs were significantly correlated with the genetic variation in fruit firmness, which might expand the potential choices for improving strawberry shelf life.
Deep learning algorithms for cyber security applications: A survey
Authors: Li Guangjun , Sharma Preetpal , Pan Lei , Rajasegarar Sutharshan , Karmakar Chandan , Patterson Nicholas
Published: June 2021

With the development of information technology, thousands of devices are connected to the Internet, various types of data are accessed and transmitted through the network, which pose huge security threats while bringing convenience to people. In order to deal with security issues, many effective solutions have been given based on traditional machine learning. However, due to the characteristics of big data in cyber security, there exists a bottleneck for methods of traditional machine learning in improving security. Owning to the advantages of processing big data and high-dimensional data, new solutions for cyber security are provided based on deep learning. In this paper, the applications of deep learning are classified, analyzed and summarized in the field of cyber security, and the applications are compared between deep learning and traditional machine learning in the security field. The challenges and problems faced by deep learning in cyber security are analyzed and presented. The findings illustrate that deep learning has a better effect on some aspects of cyber security and should be considered as the first option.
Consensus-based group decision-making methods with probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy preference relations and their applications
Authors: Song Juan , Ni Zhiwei , Jin Feifei , Wu Wenying , Li Ping
Published: June 2021

Probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy sets (PDHFSs) have good flexibility and integrity in expressing fuzzy and uncertain information. However, some crucial problems related to PDHFSs remain unsolved, such as how to define probabilistic dual hesitant fuzzy preference relations (PDHFPRs) and solve group decision-making (GDM) problems with PDHFPRs. This paper establishes the concept of PDHFPRs and investigates consensus-based GDM methods with PDHFPRs. First, a new distance measure is proposed to quantify the difference between two PDHFPRs, which does not increase the virtual elements of membership and non-membership degrees, and can contain all distance combination of membership and non-membership elements. Therefore, the distance calculation results are not affected by the subjectivity of decision-makers (DMs). Second, the consensus measures for PDHFPRs are proposed, which are effective tool to measure the consensus level among DMs. Moreover, two consensus-based GDM methods are proposed, which can improve the group consensus level for PDHFPRs by changing the PDHFPR with the worst consensus level or modifying the weights of DMs. Finally, the proposed methods are applied to the location selection of large-scale industrial solid waste treatment facilities. The comparison with existing methods illustrates the validity and feasibility of the proposed methods.
Maternal first antenatal care visit biometric indices as potential predictors of umbilical cord morphometric parameters
Authors: Bimpong S. , Abaidoo C.S. , Tetteh J. , Okwan D.
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND:

One key factor proven to increase quality of pregnancy outcome has been antenatal care (ANC) service. The perinatal triad of mother, placenta and fetus becomes functionally complete with a functional umbilical cord. The objective of the study was to establish mathematical models to predict the outcome of umbilical cord morphometric parameters using maternal first antenatal care visit biometric indices.

METHOD:

This analytical descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 pregnant women who attended antenatal care for the first time in their first trimester at the Victory Maternity Home and Clinic in the Kumasi Metropolis, between April 2016 and October 2019. Umbilical cord length, diameter, area, volume and weight were measured after delivery. Maternal first antenatal care visit blood pressure was taken and their non-fasting blood samples were collected and lipid profile done.

RESULTS:

Mean values for umbilical cord measurements were; cord length, 38.10±7.86 cm; diameter, 1.04±0.17 cm; area, 66.10±24.49 cm2 and volume was 34.02±11.16 cm3 respectively while mean cord weight was 65.01±21.35 g. The study found that a unit increase in total cholesterol led to an increase of 2.33 units in umbilical cord length, high-density lipoprotein also resulted in 0.06 units increase in cord diameter while low-density lipoprotein decreases cord length by 3.31 units. Also, a unit increase in maternal booking total cholesterol resulted in 2.33 units increase in umbilical cord length.

CONCLUSION:

Maternal first antenatal care visit total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein could influence the outcome of umbilical cord length, diameter and area.
Scanner data in inflation measurement: From raw data to price indices
Authors: Białek Jacek , Berȩsewicz Maciej
Published: June 2021

Scanner data offer new opportunities for CPI or HICP calculation. They can be obtained from a wide variety of retailers (supermarkets, home electronics, Internet shops, etc.) and provide information at the level of the barcode. One of advantages of using scanner data is the fact that they contain complete transaction information, i.e. prices and quantities for every sold item. After clearing data and unifying product names, products should be carefully classified (e.g. into COICOP 5 or below), matched, filtered and aggregated. One of new challenges connected with scanner data is the appropriate choice of the index formula. In this article we present a proposal for the implementation of individual stages of handling scanner data. We also point out potential problems during scanner data processing and their solutions. We compare a large number of price index methods based on real scanner data sets and we verify their sensitivity on adopted data filtering and aggregating methods. One of the aims is also to compare calculations of multilateral indices in terms of how time-consuming they are. Finally, the paper investigates distances between these indices and the theoretical, expected value of the price share when prices are log-normally distributed. It is a new approach to providing an additional criterion in the price index selection.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an optimized process of providing assistive technology for impaired upper extremity function: Protocol of a prospective, quasi-experimental non-randomized study (OMARM)
Authors: Roentgen Uta R. , Heide Loek A. van der , Kremer Ingrid E.H. , Creemers Huub , Brehm Merel A. , Groothuis Jan T. , Hagedoren Edith A.V. , Daniëls Ramon , Evers Silvia M.A.A.
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND:

Impaired upper extremity function due to muscle paresis or paralysis has a major impact on independent living and quality of life (QoL). Assistive technology (AT) for upper extremity function (i.e. dynamic arm supports and robotic arms) can increase a client’s independence. Previous studies revealed that clients often use AT not to their full potential, due to suboptimal provision of these devices in usual care.

OBJECTIVE:

To optimize the process of providing AT for impaired upper extremity function and to evaluate its (cost-) effectiveness compared with care as usual.

METHODS:

Development of a protocol to guide the AT provision process in an optimized way according to generic Dutch guidelines; a quasi-experimental study with non-randomized, consecutive inclusion of a control group ([Formula: see text] 48) receiving care as usual and of an intervention group (optimized provision process) ([Formula: see text] 48); and a cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis from societal perspective will be performed. The primary outcome is clients’ satisfaction with the AT and related services, measured with the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with AT (Dutch version; D-QUEST). Secondary outcomes comprise complaints of the upper extremity, restrictions in activities, QoL, medical consumption and societal cost. Measurements are taken at baseline and at 3, 6 and 9 months follow-up.
PREREVOLUTIONARY PERIOD OF DEVELOPMENT OF LEGISLATION AGAINST CRIME IN THE FIELD OF FOREST FUND
Authors:   National Academy of Internal Affairs, Sinyushko Dmytro
Published: June 2021

The article, based on historical and legal analysis, examines the evolutionary development of criminal law support for combating crime in the field of forest resources in modern Ukraine. The author identifies trends in the historical and legal development of criminal law counteraction to forest violations in Ukraine, which were associated with the peculiarities of land ownership, political and socio-economic status of society. The study found that criminal law counteraction to forest violations in independent Ukraine is characterized by the search for an effective model, which should largely include historical experience. Generalizations were made, recommendations were given to improve the fight against crimes in the field of forest resources. The study of historical and legal literature makes it possible to conclude that the history of Ukrainian criminal law in the field of forest protection covers three chronological periods: the first period (pre-revolutionary) – from the times of «Ruska Pravda» and until 1917; second period (Soviet) – from 1917 to 1991; third period (post-Soviet) – since 1991. It is important to note that natural conditions have developed so that the boundary between the forest and the steppe was not clearly expressed. The location of settlements has solved a number of important issues. First, the forest served as an object of crafts, hunting, boarding. Secondly, the trees were cut down, cocturns for expansion of agricultural areas, pastures for grazing livestock, meadows for harvesting hay. Thirdly, in the woods could always be hiding from raids of nomads. So іn addition, can conclude that the historical experience of the formulation of norms regulating the responsibility for criminal offices is now relevant: by introducing in the norm of such elements, which maximally motivate the foresters to hold from criminal encroachments and cause moral condemnation of such acts; use of stimulating the rails to conscientious forest use, even in the case of committing a violation, by reporting it and the inclusion of an enhanced punishment for concealing such a violation; by differentiation of responsibility, depending on the degree of fire hazard in forests; introduction to the signs of a crime committed by destroying or damaging forest plantations, the location of such acts near settlements.
THE ROLE OF A JUVENILE VICTIM IN THE MECHANISM OF PERSONAL CRIMINAL ILLEGAL BEHAVIOR
Authors:   Donetsk State University of Internal Affairs, Titochka Tetiana
Published: June 2021

In the article the author considers the role of a minor victim in the mechanism of perverse criminal illegal behavior. It is pointed out that perverse behavior a priori indicates, first of all, the loss of a person's moral values and distortion of adequate worldview, which occurs due to certain mental / psychological disorders. Perversion does not always become the root cause of criminally illegal behavior and is essentially an inadequate, perverted notion of sexual intercourse. However, certain types of sexual deviations require a person to commit illegal acts that will allow him to obtain sexual arousal and its logical ending. In this context, we are talking about pedophilia (including incest), necrophilia, forced sexual intercourse (rape, sexual violence, etc.). That is why the primary role of the victim in the mechanism of perverse illegal behavior is quite banal – formal compliance with the needs of the offender on physiological grounds (sex, age, appearance, etc.). Emphasis is placed on the fact that in order to commit unlawful intent to commit violent incest against a minor, it is necessary to: 1) a person suffering from a certain kind of sexual deviations (perversion), and also does not have a finally formed system of values and is not endowed with moral qualities capable of warning deviant behavior; 2) a juvenile who, due to his physiological, psychological or behavioral characteristics, meets the needs of the offender; 3) an environment that promotes and facilitates the commission of sexual violence. The author argues that the criminally illegal behavior of a person who commits a sexual criminal offense against a minor is most often motivated by a physiological and mental need to satisfy sexual desire. Most of these illegal acts are committed in a state of intoxication, which facilitates the perpetrator's process of realizing his unnatural desire, ultimately forming the emergence of direct intent. If we are talking about a priori mentally ill person, then this intention is formed and repeated in him (multi-act). The victim is the center of motivation, shaping and determining its implementation. Thus, the juvenile victim is integrated into the subjective component of the abuser's behavior.
CRIMINAL LEGAL PROTECTION OF LANDS ON WHICH THE OBJECTS OF IMMOVABLE CULTURAL HERITAGE ARE LOCATED: ANALYSIS OF CERTAIN LEGISLATIVE INITIATIVES
Authors:   Donetsk State University of Internal Affairs, Danylevskyi Andriy , Danylevska Yuliya ,   Donetsk State University of Internal Affairs
Published: June 2021

In connection with the numerous facts of violations of the special legal regime of historical and cultural lands, in particular, their illegal development, a number of draft laws have been developed, which increase the responsibility for the destruction of immovable cultural heritage and violation of the traditional nature of the environment. The presented work is devoted to the analysis of legislative initiatives enshrined in the draft law No. 4562 «On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Concerning Strengthening Responsibility for the Destruction of Immovable Cultural Heritage and Violation of the Traditional Nature of the Environment», and the correlation of the provisions of this draft law with the provisions of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, the Land Code of Ukraine, the Law of Ukraine «On the Protection of Cultural Heritage». Thus, the draft law is proposed to supplement Art. 197-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine «Unauthorized occupation of a land plot and unauthorized construction» with three new parts regarding the unauthorized construction of buildings or structures: in the historical area of historical settlements (Part 5 of Art. 197-1); on the territory of a historical and cultural reserve, a historical and cultural protected area, a world heritage site or in its buffer zone (Part 6 of Art. 197-1); and the acts provided for by parts five and six of this article, if they are committed repeatedly (Part 7 of Art. 197-1). In addition, it is proposed to determine the type and amount of punishment for these acts. The conducted research shows that the criminal law norms described in Art. 197-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, are able to implement a protective function regarding illegal occupation or unauthorized construction on lands of historical and cultural purposes, and therefore there is no need to adopt the law draft No. 4562 «On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of Ukraine Concerning Strengthening Responsibility for the destruction of immovable cultural heritage and violation of the traditional character of the environment», which is imperfect in terms of legal drafting methodology. However, a promising direction of scientific research and possible legislative initiatives on the issue under consideration may be the development of measures of criminal legal action against persons who illegally build up the lands on which cultural heritage sites are located.