bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OS CONFLITOS TRABALHISTAS E A POSSIBILIDADE DA SUBMISSÃO À JUSTIÇA RESTAURATIVA
Authors: Martins Janete Rosa , Gayeski Meneguzzi Nelci Lurdes , Caciamani Bianca Regina
Published: December 2021

: A Justiça Restaurativa inserida nos modos não adversariais de solução de conflitos têm sido utilizada com sucesso em diversos segmentos sociais como em escolas, na resolução de conflitos familiares e comunitários, assim como em algumas situações que envolvem o Direito Penal. Diante disso, surge a problemática que envolve este breve estudo: será possível aplicar as técnicas da Justiça Restaurativa na resolução dos conflitos trabalhistas? A hipótese que se apresenta está voltada para a inviabilidade da aplicação da Justiça Restaurativa nos conflitos jurídico-trabalhistas, isto porque a relação existente entre empregado e empregador encontra-se em níveis hierárquicos  diversos,  justamente por isso tem-se a  aplicação da principiologia do Direito do Trabalho, especialmente o principio da proteção que faz com que as partes da relação de emprego cheguem ao mesmo patamar. No entanto, entende-se possível a aplicação da Justiça Restaurativa nos conflitos decorrentes da gestão das atividades econômicas exploradas pelo empregador, como meio de resolver eventuais conflitos dessa ordem. Metodologicamente, o estudo tem caráter exploratório, pois enfatiza as causas e consequências relacionadas à problemática por intermédio da coleta de dados. Para tanto, utiliza o método de abordagem hipotético-dedutivo, sendo observados a essência do objeto de estudo, os procedimentos de seleção bibliográfica e a leitura do material selecionado, que permitiram uma reflexão crítica acerca do tema pesquisado e, por fim, a exposição dos resultados obtidos
A (IN)CONSTITUCIONALIDADE E O VALOR PROBATÓRIO DA CONFISSÃO COMO CONDIÇÃO OBRIGATÓRIA NO ÂMBITO DO ACORDO DE NÃO PERSECUÇÃO PENAL
Authors: Rocha André Aarão
Published: December 2021

O presente trabalho tem como objeto a confissão formal e circunstanciada como condição necessária à realização do acordo de não persecução penal. Para isso, primeiramente serão estudadas as características e requisitos que deverão ser respeitados para que a confissão seja reputada válida e o acordo possa ser realizado. As funções da confissão realizada no acordo também são estudadas a fim de averiguar os motivos de o legislador ter exigido a confissão como requisito imprescindível à realização do acordo. Posteriormente, chega-se à primeira das principais discussões a serem estudadas no trabalho. Trata-se da análise quanto à (in)constitucionalidade da confissão no acordo, tendo em vista o direito do investigado de não produzir provas contra si próprio (princípio do nemo tenetur se detegere ou da não autoincriminação) e das prerrogativas dele decorrentes, quais sejam: o direito de permanecer em silêncio e o de não ser constrangido a confessar a prática de ilícito penal. Por fim, o presente trabalho busca perscrutar acerca da possibilidade de utilização, no âmbito do processo penal, da confissão realizada no acordo de não persecução penal e, caso isso seja possível, objetiva-se averiguar o valor probatório que lhe seria atribuído.
TEORIA DA CEGUEIRA DELIBERADA E SUA APLICABILIDADE NO ORDENAMENTO JURÍDICO BRASILEIRO EM CRIMES DE LAVAGEM DE CAPITAIS
Authors: Gonçalves Mykael Nascimento , Schelive Correia Italo
Published: December 2021

RESUMO

Considerando a crescente utilização da Teoria da Cegueira Deliberada em casos de grande repercussão social em âmbito nacional, torna imprescindível o estudo e entendimento sobre a mesma, objetivou-se não só identificar como essa teoria tem impactado em crimes de lavagem de capitais, como também quais são os limites a que a Teoria da Evitação da Consciência está subordinada e quais os requisitos da sua aplicabilidade. Para tanto, procedeu-se ao método da pesquisa bibliográfica no direito comparado, para análise do conceito e evolução histórica da teoria, como também estudo dos pontos referentes à teoria da cegueira deliberada no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, tanto na jurisprudência como na doutrina. Desse modo, observou-se que adoção da teoria da cegueira deliberada no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro possui efeito positivo no combate a crimes de lavagem de capitais o que permite concluir que, desde que respeitado os seus requisitos a teoria não encontra obstáculo suficiente para impedir a sua aplicação sendo um importante marco para o direito penal e processual penal brasileiro.

 

PALAVRAS-CHAVE:  Cegueira Deliberada; Direito Penal; Lavagem de Capitais.
OS REFLEXOS TRABALHISTAS DO CAPITALISMO DE PLATAFORMA: A REPERCUSSÃO DAS INOVAÇÕES TECNOLÓGICAS NA FORMA DE ORGANIZAÇÃO DO TRABALHO HUMANO
Authors: Rosa e Silva Túlio Macedo , Bessa Gabrielly Costa
Published: December 2021

O artigo possui o objetivo de analisar o desenvolvimento da tecnologia e a forma de interação com o mundo do trabalho, explicitando a influência do capitalismo de plataforma nas relações de trabalho e como essa forma de organização por meio de mecanismos tecnológicos trouxe novos parâmetros no meio laboral, narrando os aspectos peculiares da exploração de mão de obra humana nas espécies Crowdwork e trabalho sob demanda. O objetivo do trabalho é demonstrar a possibilidade de proteção jurídica dos trabalhadores nas novas relações de trabalho formadas via plataformas digitais com o ordenamento jurídico existente, enquadrando-os como subordinados ou se há a necessidade de inovação legislativa para criar uma categoria intermediária que consiga inserir a nova modalidade contratual como matéria pertinente ao Direito do Trabalho.

O artigo possui o objetivo de analisar o desenvolvimento da tecnologia e a forma de interação com o mundo do trabalho, explicitando a influência do capitalismo de plataforma nas relações de trabalho e como essa forma de organização por meio de mecanismos tecnológicos trouxe novos parâmetros no meio laboral, narrando os aspectos peculiares da exploração de mão de obra humana nas espécies Crowdwork e trabalho sob demanda. O objetivo do trabalho é demonstrar a possibilidade de proteção jurídica dos trabalhadores nas novas relações de trabalho formadas via plataformas digitais com o ordenamento jurídico existente, enquadrando-os como subordinados ou se há a necessidade de inovação legislativa para criar uma categoria intermediária que consiga inserir a nova modalidade contratual como matéria pertinente ao Direito do Trabalho.
Identifying the Molecular Cause of Extreme Endoplasmic Reticulum Dilation in Pediatric Osteosarcoma and Its Relationship to the Disease
Authors:   ,   University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Wood Rachael
Published: December 2021

Pediatric osteosarcoma tumors are characterized by an unusual abundance of grossly dilated endoplasmic reticulum and an immense genomic instability that has complicated identifying new effective molecular therapeutic targets. Here we report a novel molecular signature that encompasses the majority of 108 patient tumor samples, PDXs and osteosarcoma cell lines. These tumors exhibit reduced expression of four critical COPII vesicle proteins that has resulted in the accumulation of procollagen-I protein within ‘hallmark’ dilated ER. Using CRISPR activation technology, increased expression of only SAR1A and SEC24D to physiologically normal levels was sufficient to restore both collagen-I secretion and resolve dilated ER morphology to normal.
Biodiversity with problem-based learning: impact on quality of students’ scientific argumentation
Authors: Anwar Yenny , Rahmayanti Rita , Ermayanti
Published: December 2021

This study aims to determine the effect of problem-based learning (PBL) on the scientific argumentation of class X students at Senior High School in Indralaya, Indonesia, on biodiversity education. The research method was quasi-experimental with a non-equivalent control group research design. This research was conducted in class X-science-3 (n=33) as an experiment and X-science 4 (n=33) as a control at Senior High School in Indralaya, Indonesia. The data collection instrument was a test question that included scientific argumentation skills in essay questions and recorded class discussions. Data on writing scientific arguments are analyzed using cohesion and coherence, sentence effectiveness, concept correctness, critical analysis of problems and problem-solving. Data on the ability of scientific argumentation in writing and oral are also analyzed based on Toulmin's claim, data, warrant, backing, rebuttal, and qualifier. Furthermore, based on the Toulmin aspect, the students' quality level of scientific argumentation is determined. The result showed that the level of argumentation quality of students who applied the PBL model was mainly at level 3, while the control class was mainly at level 1. The effect being studied is significant. The PBL can significantly influence the ability of scientific argumentation in class X students at senior high school in Indralaya, Indonesia.
Integration of ethnoscience in problem-based learning to improve contextuality and meaning of biology learning
Authors: Suciyati Alfi , Suryadarma I Gusti Putu , Paidi Paidi
Published: December 2021

Meaningful learning can be carried out by adapting learning to local culture and traditions. Ethnoscience is a set of knowledge identified in a community and can be used as the learning base to create contextual and meaningful learning for students. This study aims to find more information about ethnoscience-based biology learning. The research method used was a literature study. The literature used mainly discusses ethnoscience, ethnoscience learning, and learning methods.   The instrument used in this study was a summary table of all related articles, following the summary table made by Cronin et al. (2008). This research produces a new conceptual framework which is a synergy between ethnoscience and problem-based learning. This research also generates six procedures for designing ethnoscience-based learning and five steps to integrate ethnoscience into Problem-based Learning. The integration of ethnoscience in problem-based learning can increase the contextuality and meaning of biology learning and can be applied to maintain local culture. This study recommends the use of procedures resulted from this study to design ethnoscience-based learning and integrate ethnoscience learning into Problem-Based Learning.
Prevalence and Predictors of Home Health Care Workers’ General, Physical, and Mental Health: Findings From the 2014‒2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Sterling Madeline R. , Li Jia , Cho Jacklyn , Ringel Joanna Bryan , Silver Sharon R.
Published: December 2021

Objectives. To determine the prevalence and predictors of US home health care workers’ (HHWs’) self-reported general, physical, and mental health.

Methods. Using the 2014–2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, we analyzed the characteristics and health of 2987 HHWs (weighted n = 659 000) compared with 2 similar low-wage worker groups (health care aides and health care support workers, not working in the home). We conducted multivariable logistic regression to determine which characteristics predicted HHWs’ health.

Results. Overall, 26.6% of HHWs had fair or poor general health, 14.1% had poor physical health, and 20.9% had poor mental health; the prevalence of each outcome was significantly higher than that of the comparison groups. Among HHWs, certain factors, such as low household income, an inability to see a doctor because of cost, and a history of depression, were associated with all 3 aspects of suboptimal health.

Conclusions. HHWs had worse general, physical, and mental health compared with low-wage workers not in home health.

Public Health Implications. Increased attention to the health of HHWs by public health experts and policymakers is warranted. In addition, targeted interventions appropriate to their specific health needs may be required. (Am J Public Health. 2021;111(12):2239–2250. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306512 )
Diagnosis of Suspected Scaphoid Fractures
Authors: Stirling Paul H.C. , Strelzow Jason A. , Doornberg Job N. , White Timothy O. , McQueen Margaret M. , Duckworth Andrew D.
Published: December 2021

» Suspected scaphoid fractures are a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge despite the advances in knowledge regarding these injuries and imaging techniques. The risks and restrictions of routine immobilization as well as the restriction of activities in a young and active population must be weighed against the risks of nonunion that are associated with a missed fracture.

» The prevalence of true fractures among suspected fractures is low. This greatly reduces the statistical probability that a positive diagnostic test will correspond with a true fracture, reducing the positive predictive value of an investigation.

» There is no consensus reference standard for a true fracture; therefore, alternative statistical methods for calculating sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values are required.

» Clinical prediction rules that incorporate a set of demographic and clinical factors may allow stratification of secondary imaging, which, in turn, could increase the pretest probability of a scaphoid fracture and improve the diagnostic performance of the sophisticated radiographic investigations that are available.

» Machine-learning-derived probability calculators may augment risk stratification and can improve through retraining, although these theoretical benefits need further prospective evaluation.

» Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are a form of artificial intelligence that have demonstrated great promise in the recognition of scaphoid fractures on radiographs. However, in the more challenging diagnostic scenario of a suspected or so-called “clinical” scaphoid fracture, CNNs have not yet proven superior to a diagnosis that has been made by an experienced surgeon.
In Situ Needle Penetration Test and Its Application in a Sericite Schist Railway Tunnel, Southwest of China
Authors: Dong Jiaxing , Yang Runxue , Guo Chenggang , Wang Meiqian , Wu Yonghong , Guo Yongfa , Zhao Yiran , Li Gan
Published: December 2021

The sericite schist is a typical metamorphic soft rock. Large deformation of surrounding rock often occurs in the construction of a tunnel in this stratum. Due to the broken rock mass structure and poor mechanical strength in Baishitou tunnel project of Dalin line of Southwest railway, it is impossible to prepare standard samples for a traditional rock mechanical test. Therefore, we chose penetrometer (SH-70) for an in situ test. Firstly, we monitored the deformation of typical sections and analyzed the characteristics of large deformation of soft rock in the tunnel. Secondly, we tested the needle penetration index of fresh excavation face and side wall. Then, we estimated some mechanical parameters of sericite schist by a needle penetrometer and Hoek-brown criterion and discussed the acquisition of mechanical parameters of soft rock. The results show the following: (1) the characteristics of extrusion rock tunnel are summarized as large deformation, fast deformation rate, and obvious construction disturbance. (2) The reference value of penetration index of sericite schist (the vertical joint direction) is 3.90~7.77 N/mm, and the parallel joint direction is 1.27~2.99 N/mm. (3) The uniaxial compressive strength estimated by a penetrometer is 0.78~8.53 MPa, and the strength of the surrounding rock is negatively correlated with the amount of deformation. Therefore, it can be considered that the insufficient strength of surrounding rock is the fundamental reason for large deformation. (4) The reference value of cohesion of sericite schist estimated by a penetrometer is 0.203 MPa, and the reference value of internal friction angle is 18.224°. Compared with the common estimation methods, the penetrometer is more convenient and economical, which can provide a new idea for obtaining the mechanical parameters of sericite schist soft rock tunnel.
Forecasting Hydrocarbon Production at Gas Condensate Fields Considering Phase Transformations of Reservoir Systems
Authors: Bikman Yefim Semenovich
Published: December 2021

Based on the results of PVT studies, a methodology for estimating hydrocarbon recovery at various stages of a gas condensate field development, depending on the current weighted average reservoir pressure in the gas drive, is considered.

In this case, the physical processes related to the phase transformations of the reservoir gas condensate mixture with a decrease in reservoir pressure in the deposit are assumed identical in the PVT bomb. That is, the effect of the porous medium is neglected. This allows describing the processes of phase transformations with the same equation of material balance, based on which it is possible to forecast hydrocarbon recovery at gas condensate fields, and provide a control over the results of phase transformation modelling of the reservoir gas condensate mixture in phase balance bomb (PVT bomb).
Comparison of Robot Versus Fluoroscopy-Assisted Pedicle Screw Instrumentation in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis Surgery
Authors: Hou Canglong , Chen Yu , Yang Mingyuan , Yang Yilin , Yang Huan , Chen Kai , Zhang Beichen , Chen Kai , Li Ming
Published: December 2021

The aim of this study is to explore whether robot-assisted technique has advantages over conventional fluoroscopy-assisted technique in clinical and radiological outcomes and whether it could decrease the incidence of mis-implantations of pedicle screws in AIS correction surgery.A total of 101 AIS patients were recruited (RA group: 45 patients underwent robot-assisted screw insertion; FA group: 56 patients underwent fluoroscopy-assisted screw insertion). When compared the radiological data between two groups, major and secondary curve were both corrected proficiently with no difference in the Cobb angle comparison at last follow-up, suggesting that both robot-assisted technique and fluoroscopy-assisted technique could lead to efficient radiographic correction and similar clinical outcomes (all, P<0.05). In RA group, operation time, blood loss and transfusion volume were significantly greater than those in FA group, while the accuracy of screw implantations in AIS patients with thoracic scoliotic curve in RA group was higher than that in FA group.In conclusion, both robot-assisted and fluoroscopy-assisted technique could reach proficient radiographic correction and similar clinical outcomes in AIS surgery. Compared with conventional fluoroscopy technique, robot-assisted technique might improve the accuracy of screw implantations in AIS patients with thoracic scoliotic curve, while the increased operation time, blood loss and transfusion volume might be the disadvantages due to preliminary stage of learning curve.
Longitudinal Evolution of Cognitive Function in Colorectal and Breast Cancer Survivors Treated with (Neo)Adjuvant Chemotherapy.
Authors: Callejo Ana , Iranzo Patricia , Otal Laura , Gotor Paloma , Berbiela Lola , Olmo Sandra del , Aso Carmen , Sanfrutos Alberto Matias , Arbej Julio , Villacampa Guillermo , Yubero Alfonso , Murillo Laura , Isla Dolores , Andres Raquel
Published: December 2021

Introduction & objectives:

Advances in early diagnosis and treatment are improving the long-term survival of patients with cancer. Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is often reported as a long-term chemotherapy sequel. Improving the knowledge of CRCI may help to prevent, manage and identify risk factors. Our main goal is to assess the cognitive function evolution and determine the potential influence of chemotherapy in neurological decline.
Material and methods

We designed a prospective and longitudinal study of a colorectal and breast cancer patient cohort (n=62) and we assessed cognitive function evolution using a battery of 11 neuropsychological tests at three time points: baseline, post chemotherapy and 6 months after finishing chemotherapy. Sociodemographic features, quality of life, anxiety and depression status were recorded as well as their interplay with cognitive evolution.
Results

At baseline, 14.5% of the patients had cognitive dysfunction. Older age, low level of education, colorectal cancer and comorbidities were associated to initial cognitive damage. A total of 61.9% of patients presented a decline of scores in 4 or more tests from baseline to post chemotherapy assessment. This percentage decreased to 24.4% in the late follow up evaluation, showing an intra-patient recovery after chemotherapy. Verbal and visual memory is the domain most affected.
Conclusion

Our data suggest that cognitive function of cancer patients treated with chemotherapy may subtly but transiently decline during treatment, with most patients recovering their cognitive function over time. Further research is needed in this field as CRCI continues to impact on quality of life and mental well-being.
Psychosocial Support and Nutrition Counselling Among Patients with Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Koshimoto Saori , Yamazaki Tomoko , Amano Koji , Kako Jun , Arimoto Masako , Saitou Keiko , Hashizume Akiko , Takeuchi Takashi , Matsushima Eisuke
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Cancer chemotherapy causes nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) that affect patient diet and nutrition. Such patients, therefore, require nutrition counselling. In this study, we aimed to 1) identify the psychosocial factors of patients who require nutrition counselling and 2) articulate the specific details of the issues for which patients desire advice.
Methods

We conducted anthropometric measurements, surveys using questionnaires, and interviews with patients receiving outpatient chemotherapy for head and neck, oesophageal, gastric, colorectal, and lung cancers. The questionnaire included items on NIS, patients’ experience of eating-related distress (ERD), and quality of life (QOL). Interviews were conducted with patients who required nutrition counselling regarding specific issues. We provided nutrition counselling in two sessions.
Results

Of the 151 patients, 42 required nutrition counselling. The psychosocial factors affecting the required nutrition counselling were the number of people in the household, employment status, QOL, and ERD. The contexts of the specific issues patients wanted to discuss included self-management, distress, understanding and sympathy, anxiety, and confusion.
Conclusion

Nutrition counselling for patients receiving cancer chemotherapy needs to involve multidisciplinary support that considers psychological (anxiety, confusion) and social (family structure, employment situation) aspects as additional means to address NIS.
What Is the Appropriate Skin Cleaning Method for Nasopharyngeal Cancer Radiotherapy Patients? a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhang Qingfen , Wang Ying , Yang Shuang , Wu Qian , Qiang Wanmin
Published: December 2021

Purpose To determine the effect of various cleaning methods for skin with acute radiation dermatitis (RD) in patients treated for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Methods A total of 168 NPC inpatients were randomized, while 152 patients completed the whole trial and the data were analyzed. Patients were randomly divided into non-washing group, washing with water alone group, and washing with water and soap group. All three groups received intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) among other treatments. Follow-up from recruitment or the initial radiotherapy dose to 1 month after the final radiotherapy dose. CONSORT checklist was applied as the reporting guidelines for this study. Study evaluated a range of endpoints including incidence, timing, severity of acute RD and quality of life (QOL).Results There were no allergic reactions or aggravating in both washing groups during the whole treatment. The incidence of acute RD was 100% in all three groups, while the degree of severity differed among groups. Washing moderately reduced severity compared with patients without washing; washing also delayed the onset time of acute RD, reduced the incidence of moist desquamation and pruritus. There were no significant difference among groups with respect to pain or burning sensation. Washing improved QOL on physical, emotional, and social functional dimensions. Washing with water and soap was the most effective on reducing itching and improving QOL among three groups. Conclusion Washing irradiated skin reduces the occurrence and severity of acute radiation dermatitis.Clinical trial information ChiCTR2000038231, date of registration 09.18.2020
Up－Regulated miR-224-5p Can Target the Expression of Neuritin in Hearing Loss
Authors: Song Yin , Zhang Xue , Sun Jiawei , Li Lina , Zhang Xiaofei , Li Ping , Huang Jin , Yong Yan
Published: December 2021

Objective: This study screened the differentially expressed miRNAs in the mouse cochlea during hearing loss and explored the relationship between miR-224-5p and Neuritin.Methods: The combination of kanamycin sulfate and furosemide was used to establish a mouse hearing loss model. High-throughput sequencing was used to screen the differentially expressed miRNAs during hearing loss. qRT-PCR was used to identify the expression of differential miRNAs in hearing loss. Western Blot was used to detect the expression of Neuritin protein. Luciferase was used to identify the binding site of miRNA and Neuritin.Results: The expression of miR-224-5p in the mouse cochlea increased during hearing loss (p<0.05). MiR-224-5p mimics can reduce Neuritin protein expression in 293T cells (p<0.05). MiR-224-5p can specifically bind to Neuritin (p<0.05).Conclusion: The expression of miR-224-5p increases in hearing loss and targets the expression of Neuritin
Optimized Degradation of Eosin Dye Through UV-ZnO NPs Catalyzed Reaction
Authors: Farouq Rania , Ismaeel Ehsan Kh. , Monazie Aliaa M.
Published: December 2021

The present study is set out to determine the photocatalytic degradation potential of ZnO nanoparticles for effective degradation of Eosin dye. The heterogeneous photocatalytic experiments were carried out by irradiating aqueous dye solutions with ultraviolet light. The influence of effective parameters like flow rate, pH, catalyst dose, and dye concentration was examined. The best degradation efficiency (66.82%) of ZnO Nanoparticles against Eosin dye was achieved within 90 min of reaction time. The Box–Behnken design under the Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was chosen as a statistical tool to obtain the correlation of influential parameters. The optimum values were recorded as follows: 0.59 g, 15.75 ppm and 136.12 ml/min for amount of catalyst, dye concentration and flow rate, respectively. The maximum percent degradation achieved at these conditions was 71.44%.
Extremely Southward Migration of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current During the Last Interglacial
Authors: Lu Lijuan , Zheng Xufeng , Chen Zhong , Weber Michael , Peck Victoria , Reilly Brendan , Yan Wen , Chen Tianyu , Yan Hong , Gong Xun , Wu Shuzhuang , Zheng Liwei , WAN SHIMING , Du Yan , Tauxe Lisa , Brachfeld Stefanie , Williams Trevor , Martos Yasmina , Du Zhiheng , Garcia Marga , Perez Lara , Warnock Jonathan , Kao Shuh-Ji
Published: December 2021

The Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) acts as a critical component to regulate the global thermohaline circulation and climate. However, active debate remains about the relative strength of ACC during current/past warm periods and underlying driving mechanisms. Here, we present sortable silt mean grain size records from the Scotia Sea to infer the ACC strength over the past 160 ka. The 22-ka cycles of sortable silt mean grain size suggest that the precession-driven contraction/expansion of Subtropical Jet dominates the migration of ACC fronts, and thus ACC speed and potential Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation stability. We find that the bottom flow speed during MIS 5e was over three times faster than the Holocene, with no apparent difference in ACC speed between the Holocene and the Last Glacial Maximum. We suggest that a southward shift of oceanic fronts of ~5° could cause the additional speed-up of ACC during MIS 5e. This could induce warmer water flowing in the ACC to approach and melt the Antarctica continental ice shelves, with corresponding effects on global sea level and the global climate.
High Efficiency Stabilization of Lead in Contaminated Soil by Thermal-organic Acid Activated Phosphate Rock
Authors: Song Ziwen , Zhang Zhuo , Luo Canyu , Yang Likun , Wu Jin
Published: December 2021

Phosphate rock powder (PR) has been shown to possess the potential to stabilize lead (Pb) in soil. Most of the phosphorus (P) minerals in the world are low-grade ores, which makes it difficult to achieve the expected stabilization effect on heavy metals. This study compared the changes in the phase composition and structure of PR and three kinds of activated phosphate rock powder (APR) (organic acid activated PR, thermal activated PR, and thermal-acid activated PR), and used APR for the stabilization of Pb-contaminated soil. PR/APR was characterized by different methods. The stabilization effectiveness of APR on Pb-contaminated soil was evaluated by toxicity leaching procedure, the Pb products adsorbed on APR and stabilization mechanism of APR on Pb were analyzed. The results showed that the crystallinity of fluorapatite phase decreased after all the activation treatments. The APR showed decreased crystallinity and 3.4-fold increase in specific surface area, and a 53.07% and 49.32% increase in soluble P content in oxalic acid activated PR and citric acid activated PR, respectively, when compared with those of PR. These changes improved the stabilization effect of APR on Pb-contaminated soil, and the stabilization effectiveness was as follows: thermal-acid activated PR > organic acid activated PR > thermal activated PR. In particular, oxalic acid-600℃ activated PR showed the best effect, presenting 94.0%-99.8% reduction in Pb leaching concentration following addition of 2%-10% modifier. Product characterization after Pb adsorption on APR showed that Pb was adsorbed onto APR by forming pyromorphite precipitation with APR.
Reproductive and Economic Evaluation of Sexual Stimulation in Anestrus Period at a Farm Experiencing Neonatal Lamb Losses
Authors: TAKCI Abdurrahman , KIVRAK Mehmet Bugra , MURAT Hakan , CIZMECI Sakine Ulkum
Published: December 2021

Lamb deaths occurring in the neonatal phase, which covers the first four weeks after birth, cause serious economic losses for farms. This study was carried out on 140 Akkaraman-Kangal sheep that lost their lambs due to pneumonia and enteritis in the neonatal phase during the anestrus period. In the study, an intravaginal sponge containing progesterone was applied to the animals in Group 1 (n:70) on day 0, and 7 days after the application, the vaginal sponges were removed, and 263 µg PGF2α and 500 IU eCG (PMSG) hormone were applied. After removing the intravaginal sponge, rams were introduced for 7 days (between the days 8th and 14th ). Without any manipulations to the animals in Group 2, the ram effect was utilized by performing simultaneous ram introduction with Group 1. To determine the reproductive response, the economic implications between the groups were compared by considering the reproductive parameters such as oestrous rate, pregnancy rate, multiple pregnancy rate, embryonic death rate, number of births, number of offspring, and fertility. The study group created a positive economic difference compared to the control group while analyzing the statistical differences in terms of each reproductive parameter between the study and control groups. When lamb losses are experienced in farms that build their profitability on lamb production, it was concluded that pregnancy should be achieved by sexual stimulation without waiting for the breeding season.
Does Agricultural Mechanization Improve Agriculture Environment Efficiency?-Evidence from China’s Planting Industry
Authors: Zhu Yingyu , Zhang Yan , Piao Huilan
Published: December 2021

It has important theoretical value and practical significance to study the impact of agricultural mechanization (AM) on agriculture environment efficiency (AEE), as AM is an important way to improve the level of rural modernization and accelerate the high-quality development of agriculture, while the increase of energy consumption of AM has brought greenhouse gas emissions. Using the panel data of 30 provinces in China from 2001 to 2019, this article adopts stochastic frontier analysis method with output oriented distance function to measure AEE based on net carbon sink, and empirically analyzes the impact of AM on AEE. The empirical analysis finds that the AEE of the whole country and all provinces shows an upward trend with time, and has significant spatial positive autocorrelation characteristics. There is a Kuznets inverted "U" relationship between AM and AEE. Meanwhile, AM has spatial spillover effect and time cumulative effect on AEE, and this basic conclusion is still robust after using instrumental variables, spatial autoregressive model, sub sample regression, changing spatial weight matrix and independent. Further research shows that the effect of AM on AEE depends on the input effect and output effect caused by AM, and the mechanism is mainly reflected in agricultural technology progress, expansion of the scale of agricultural operation, optimization of resource allocation and spatial spillover. Given these findings, the paper adds considerable value to the empirical literature and also provides various policy- and practical implications.
Unsupervised Learning Architecture for Classifying the Transient Noise of Interferometric Gravitational-Wave Detectors
Authors: Sakai Yusuke , Itoh Yousuke , Jung Piljong , Kokeyama Keiko , Kozakai Chihiro , Nakahira Katsuko T. , Oshino Shoichi , Shikano Yutaka , Takahashi Hirotaka , Uchiyama Takashi , Ueshima Gen , Washimi Tatsuki , Yamamoto Takahiro , Yokozawa Takaaki
Published: December 2021

In the data of laser interferometric gravitational wave detectors, transient noise with non-stationary and non-Gaussian features occurs at a high rate. It often causes problems such as instability of the detector, hiding and/or imitating gravitational-wave signals. This transient noise has various characteristics in the time-frequency representation, which is considered to be associated with environmental and instrumental origins. Classification of transient noise can offer one of the clues for exploring its origin and improving the performance of the detector. One approach for the classification of these noises is supervised learning. However, generally, supervised learning requires annotation of the training data, and there are issues with ensuring objectivity in the classification and its corresponding new classes. On the contrary, unsupervised learning can reduce the annotation work for the training data and ensuring objectivity in the classification and its corresponding new classes. In this study, we propose an architecture for the classification of transient noise by using unsupervised learning, which combines a variational autoencoder and invariant information clustering. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed architecture, we used the dataset (time-frequency two-dimensional spectrogram images and labels) of the LIGO first observation run prepared by the Gravity Spy project. We obtain the consistency between the label annotated by Gravity spy project and the class provided by our proposed unsupervised learning architecture and provide the potential for the existence of the unrevealed classes.
Reproducibility and Reliability of Pancreatic Pharmacokinetic Parameters Derived from Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Zhao Weiwei , Yu Jing , Bi Yuyu , Huan Yi , Zhu Yuanqiang , Zhang Weiqi , Zheng Jianmin , Quan Zhiyong , Yang Yong
Published: December 2021

Objectives
Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) with Extended Tofts Linear (ETL) model has been used in tissue and tumor evaluation. However, its reliability and reproducibility in pancreatic evaluation has been unclear. It is also unclear whether pancreatic DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic parameters were consistent and stable among different pancreatic regions, ages and genders.
Methods
Pancreatic pharmacokinetic parameters of 54 volunteers were calculated using DCE-MRI with ETL model. Firstly, Intra- and inter-observer reproducibility was evaluated using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of variation (CoV). Secondly, subgroup evaluation of pancreatic DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic parameters was performed. 54 subjects were divided into three groups in virtue of pancreatic region, three groups according to age, two groups according to gender, which pharmacokinetic parameters among and between different groups were calculated and compared.
Results
There was excellent agreement and low variability of intra- and inter-observer to pancreatic DCE-MRI pharmacokinetic parameters. The intra- and inter-observer ICCs of Ktrans, kep, ve, vp were 0.971, 0.952, 0.959, 0.944 and 0.947, 0.911, 0.978, 0.917, respectively. The intra- and inter-observer CoVs of Ktrans, kep, ve, vp were 9.98%, 5.99%, 6.47%, 4.76% and 10.15%, 5.22%, 6.28%, 5.40%, respectively. There were no significant differences of Ktrans, kep among different pancreatic regions, among different age groups, between male and female groups (P all > 0.10). Only, pancreatic ve of old group was higher than that of young and middle-aged groups (P = 0.042, 0.001), and vp of pancreatic head was higher than that of pancreatic body and tail (P = 0.014, 0.043).
Conclusions
DCE-MRI with ETL model is reliable and reproducible for quantitative assessment of pancreatic pharmacokinetic parameters. ve varies with age and vp varies with pancreatic region, which can provide guidance for the selection of normal reference in the pharmacokinetics study of pancreatic diseases.
Impacts of R&D Expenditures On Firms’ Innovation and Financial Performance: A Panel Data Evidence from Ethiopian Firms
Authors: Mulugeta Tsegaye
Published: December 2021

In the era of the rapid development of knowledge economy and science, all countries have thought highly of technical innovation and greatly increased investment in R&D from time to time. The vast literature indicates that the relationship between R&D and firms’ performance is highly complex while evidences suggest that R&D positively influences firms’ performance, yet the process how R&D activities influence firms’ performance is still mixing. This paper explores the impacts of investment in R&D on firms’ performance from 476 firms in Ethiopia by employing a combination of the fixed-effect, PSM and ETE estimation methods. The findings of this study support the existence of a strong interaction between R&D activities and firms’ performance. The empirical results reveal that investment in R&D positively influences both innovation and long-term financial performance, while it negatively impacts shorter-term financial performance. Moreover, results show that the impacts of R&D activities vary significantly along the different category of firms confirming that heterogeneity is possible issue among firms considered. The results also indicate that availability of credit is more important moderating factor for the relationship between R&D investment and firms’ performance than legal system. The results from the current study have important implications for firms especially those from developing countries like Ethiopia with growing R&D operations. We propose that Ethiopian firms should invest more on R&D activities, such as the production of fundamental research and applied research to have better performance and enhance their competitiveness in the future.
Elevated Serum Midkine Levels in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infected Patients
Authors: Ketenci Sema , Kalaycı M. Uygar , Dündar Bağnu , Duranay Recep , Aynacıoğlu A.Şükrü
Published: December 2021

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused important health, economic, social, and cultural problems worldwide. Recent findings demonstrate an excessive cytokine release during the disease development, especially in the seriously life-threatening form of COVID-19. Among other chemokines and cytokines that are released in high amounts at the infection site of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), midkine (MK), which is an important pro-inflammatory growth factor/ cytokine, can be also overexpressed and contribute to the pathophysiological process in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Serum was collected from 87 intensive care unit (ICU) patients that are COVID-19 positive and 50 healthy volunteers in the control group with a negative PCR test and without disease symptoms. Circulating MK concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using a commercial human MK kit. COVID-19 patients had a significantly higher serum MK concentration compared to non-COVID-19 control subjects (1892.8 ± 1615.8 pg/ml versus 680.7 ± 907.6 pg/ml, respectively; P < 0.001). The cut-off MK concentration was 716.7 pg/ml, with the sensitivity and specificity of 75.9 % and 76.0 %, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUCROC) of MK was = .827. Our findings showed that circulating MK levels are significantly increased in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. We suggest that MK is involved in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and may be a part of hypercytokinaemia. Therefore, MK may serve as a supporting inflammatory marker in the diagnosis of COVID-19 and by blocking MK actions or its targets may attenuate the inflammatory process and the severity of the disease.
AZFa Y Gene, DDX3Y, Evolved Novel Testis Transcript Variants in Primates with Proximal 3´UTR Polyadenylation for Germ Cell Specific Translation
Authors: Vogt Peter H. , Rauschendorf M-A. , Zimmer J. , Drummer C. , Behr R.
Published: December 2021

Translational control is a major level of gene expression regulation in the male germ line. DDX3Y located in the AZFa region of the human Y chromosome encodes a conserved RNA helicase important for translational control at the G1-S phase of the cell cycle. In human, DDX3Y protein is expressed only in premeiotic male germ cells. In primates, DDX3Y evolved a second promoter producing novel testis-specific transcripts. Here, we show primate species-specific use of alternative polyadenylation (APA) sites for the testis-specific DDX3Y transcript variants. They have evolved first in the 3´UTRs of primate DDX3Y transcripts. A distal APA site is used for polyadenylation of DDX3Y testis transcripts in Callithrix jacchus; two proximal APAs in Macaca mulatta, in Pan trogloydates and in human. This shift corresponds with a significant increase of DDX3Y protein expression in the macaque testis and kidney tissue. In chimpanzee and human, shift to predominant use of the most proximal APA site is associated with translation of these DDX3Y transcripts in only premeiotic male germ cells. We therefore assume evolution of a positive selection process for functional DDX3Y testis transcripts in these primates to promote increase of their stability and balancing translation efficiency especially in the male germ line.
As Time Goes By: Effects of Basal Chronotype and School Timing on Chronotype Development During Adolescence
Authors: Ferrante Guadalupe Rodriguez , Goldin Andrea , Sigman Mariano , Leone Maria
Published: December 2021

The misalignment between late chronotypes and early school start times affect health, performance and psychological well-being of adolescents. Here we test whether, and how, the basal chronotype (i.e. chronotype at the beginning of secondary school) and the school timing affect the magnitude and the direction of the developmental change in chronotype during adolescence. We evaluated a sample of Argentinian students (n=259) who were randomly assigned to attend school in the morning (07:45am-12:05pm), afternoon (12:40pm-05:00pm) or evening (05:20pm-09:40pm) school timings. Importantly, chronotype and sleep habits were assessed longitudinally in the same group of students along secondary school (at 13-14 y.o. and 17-18 y.o.). Our results show that: (1) although chronotypes partially align with class time, this effect is insufficient to fully account for the differences observed in sleep-related variables between school timings; (2) both school timing and basal chronotype independently affect the direction and the magnitude of chronotype change, with greater delays associated with earlier basal chronotypes and later school timings. The practical implications of these results are challenging and should be considered in the design of future educational timing policies to improve adolescents’ well-being.
Recombination Drives Emergence of Orf Virus Diversity: Evidence From the First Complete Genome of Indian Orf Virus and Comparative Genomic Analysis
Authors: Nayak Debasis , Sahu Basanta , Majee Prativa , Singh Ravi , Sahoo Niranjan
Published: December 2021

Contagious pustular dermatitis is a disease that primarily infects small ruminants and has the zoonotic potential evoked by a Parapoxvirus, Orf virus (ORFV). This study evaluated an ORFV outbreak in goats that arose in Madhya Pradesh, a state of central India, during 2017 by constructing phylogenetic trees and unveiling its transboundary potential. Thereafter, the complete genome of an ORFV strain named Ind/MP has revealed the presence of 139,807bp nucleotide sequences, GC content 63.7%, 132 open reading frames (ORFs) circumscribed by inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) of 3,910bp. Evolutionary parameters such as selection pressure (θ=dN/dS), nucleotide diversity (π), etc., demonstrate the ORFV exhibit purifying selection. A total of forty recombination events were observed, out of which Ind/MP strains were engaged in twenty-one recombination events indicating this strain can recombine for the generation of new variants.
Analysis of Site Amplification and Nonlinear Response Based on Ground Motion Records at MYGH10 Station in Japan
Authors: Zhang Shiliang , Tao Dongwang , Xie Quancai , Ma Qiang , Wang Fuchen
Published: December 2021

Strong horizontal ground motions with the peak ground acceleration (PGA) larger than 1400 gal were observed at Yamamoto (MYGH10) station during the February 2021 Mj 7.3 off the east coast of Honshu, Japan, Fukushima earthquake. Firstly, in this paper, we discussed and verified the theoretical assumptions of the “Nakamura” method under weak and strong ground motions. The site amplification factor of the MYGH10 station was estimated using the surface horizontal-vertical spectral ratio (HVSR) and the surface-to-borehole spectral ratio (SBSR), and the corrected HVSRC, respectively. Meanwhile, the reasons for underestimating the site amplification factor when using HVSR were explained. The vertical amplification phenomenon of seismic P-wave in the high-frequency band was analysed under weak and strong ground motions. Secondly, we utilized HVSR, SBSR, and theoretical transfer function (TTF) based on the 1D wave propagation theory to study the nonlinear site response of MYGH10 station under the mainshock of the Fukushima earthquake and the historically weak and strong ground motions, respectively. The changes in frequencies and amplitudes of the spectral ratio curves when nonlinearities were occurring at the site were analysed and compared using the spectra ratio curves of weak ground motion records and TTF as references. Finally, the recovery of the site after strong nonlinearity was also evaluated by comparing the spectral ratio curves of aftershocks records. We found that the most significant amplification factor of the site increased from 7 to more than 10, and the predominant frequency decreased from 10 Hz to 3.8 Hz under the mainshock of the Fukushima earthquake. The predominant frequency returned to the previous value within three days after the mainshock, but the amplification factor did not.