bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fort potentiel antifongique des huiles essentielles de Thymus vulgaris et Tetraclinis articulata
Authors: Hamdani F.Z. , Ziri S. , Benallou A. , Djani H. , Belkacemi A.
Published: June 2021

L’extraction des huiles essentielles a été effectuée par hydrodistillation à partir des feuilles de Tetraclinis articulata et Thymus vulgaris. Les rendements obtenus en huiles essentielles sont 2,70 % pour Thymus vulgaris et 1,10 % pour Tetraclinis articulata. L’analyse chimique révèle que les huiles essentielles de Thymus vulgaris appartiennent au chémotype Thymus vulgaris à carvacrol (48,56 %) et les huiles essentielles de Teraclinis articulata sont de chémotype Tetraclinis articulata à camphre (28,03 %). Les résultats de l’activité antifongique des huiles essentielles des feuilles de Thymus vulgaris et Tetraclinis articulata montrent un fort pouvoir inhibiteur sur la croissance mycélienne radiale d’Aspergillus flavus, de Penicillium digitatum et de Fusarium sp. Ils montrent également que l’activité antifongique augmente avec l’augmentation de la concentration des huiles essentielles testées. Celles-ci peuvent être utilisées comme agents antifongiques potentiels contre les champignons pathogènes.
The Coat of Arms of Moses of Mardin
Authors: Mércz András
Published: June 2021

The core of this paper is an edition of Moses of Mardin’s grant of arms, which, accompanied by relevant excerpts from his unpublished Syriac correspondence, provides new information on the life of this 16th-century Syrian Orthodox monk, who played an important role at the dawn of the European Syriac scholarship. He was not only granted with a coat of arms, but he was also received by Ferdinand I, which shows the importance of his major achievement, the edition of the Syriac New Testament. The paper points out that he lived in the Jesuit college in Vienna with the scions of the most influential noblemen, which illustrates his social milieu. It will be argued that he remained Syrian Orthodox despite his earlier Catholic profession of faith. It will also be argued that Moses acquired the right to bear the described coat of arms without ennoblement, and he probably did not use it.
The Syro-Persian Texts in Manuscript 398 of the Chaldean Cathedral in Mardin
Authors: Maggi Mauro , Orsatti Paola
Published: June 2021

Besides Syriac texts, manuscript 398 of the Chaldean Cathedral in Mardin contains texts in Greek, Armenian, Georgian, Persian, Turkish, and Arabic in Syriac script. This article provides an edition, translation, and philological commentary of its three Persian texts on the basis of this and other witnesses: (1) a Trisagion, also in Mardin 10; (2) an Annunciation hymn with a dialogue between the Angel Gabriel and Mary, partly also in manuscript 94 of the Chaldean Diocese of Alqosh; and (3) a short Palm Sunday hymn, also in Alqosh 94, Deyrulzafaran 197, and Mingana Syr. 184 and 520, previously published on the basis of the Mingana manuscripts only.
Influence of high density planting and spatial arrangement on growth and development in Musa AAA Simmonds
Authors: Barrera José Luis , Cartagena José Régulo , Nanclares Omar
Published: June 2021

Banana is after apple, the most consumed fruit in the world for its nutritional contribution. Given its importance, it is necessary to advance in the development of agronomic management strategies that contribute to increase productivity and offer alternatives to regulate the consequences derived from the seasonality of production in the Urabá area (Colombia). For this, the clone Williams (Musa AAA Simmonds), at different planting densities (2000, 2500, 3000 and 3500 plants ha-1), different population arrangements (triangle, rectangle and double furrow), compared with a relative control (1700 plants ha-1 in triangle) was evaluated. The design used was randomized complete blocks in factorial arrangement of 4 x 3 + 1 (densities x arrays + control). The variables height and perimeter of the pseudostem, number of leaves from planting to harvest, leaf area index (IAF), light extinction coefficient, number of suckers and developmental stages (days elapsed after flowering and harvest) were determined. An analysis of general variance was carried out and another one excluding the control. The Tukey test (P <0.05) was applied to the qualitative variables and contrasts of orthogonal polynomials were made to test the linear and quadratic effects of the population density factor. The results indicated that the high planting densities and the population arrangements had a negative effect on the perimeter of the pseudostem and the height of the main sucker, favored the LAI, influenced the extinction coefficient, but did not affect the development of the plants.
Gestión de llantas usadas en la ciudad de Tunja, Boyacá (Colombia)
Authors: Bernal-Figueroa Andrea Angélica , Rocha-Gil Zulma Edelmira , Medina-Moreno Jenny Tatiana , Casas-Martínez Yenny , Buitrago-Ramírez Leidy Paola
Published: June 2021

Millones de llantas se producen anualmente para satisfacer la demanda mundial, asociada al incremento en la generación de llantas usadas. Su manejo es un desafío, considerando que la disposición en rellenos sanitarios ya no está permitida en algunos países, incluyendo Colombia, entre otras razones, por su alta resistencia biológica y química a la degradación, por lo cual, su inadecuado manejo y la falta de mecanismos de gestión, genera impactos negativos en la salud y el ambiente. Se realizó un estudio sobre la gestión de llantas usadas en Tunja, Boyacá (Colombia), con el fin de indagar aspectos relacionados con su disposición y manejo, al igual que sobre el conocimiento de programas posconsumo, aprovechamiento y cumplimiento de la normatividad ambiental vigente. Para la recolección de información primaria, se aplicaron encuestas estructuradas, a empresas registradas ante la Cámara de Comercio del municipio, que efectuaran actividades relacionadas con la generación de llantas usadas, tales como servitecas, talleres de mecánica o montallantas. El estudio mostró que los mayores generadores de este residuo son los montallantas, con una media entre 20 y 40 unidades mensuales, en mayor porcentaje de Rines 13 y 14, esto indicaría una proyección de 360 llantas anualmente por establecimiento, sin considerar los sitios no legalmente registrados. De manera general, para el avance en la gestión de llantas usadas en Tunja, se recomienda el desarrollo de alternativas, de manera articulada, entre los diferentes actores directamente involucrados, tales como productores, gestores, distribuidores y comercializadores, consumidores y autoridades ambientales regionales y municipales.
WAYS TO INCREASE THE ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF FARMS IN RURAL AREAS
Authors: Zhurynov G.M. , Kupeshev A.Sh. , Berdibekova G. S. , Yertaev Ye.Zh. , Abdrakhmanova M. B.
Published: June 2021

In the economic development of the country, the priority is to achieve a high standard of living of the people, which is largely due to food security, the degree of development of the production of agricultural raw materials and food products. It follows that the central element of the economic activity of the country as a whole and its regions is the effective development of agricultural production. The role of the agro-industrial complex as a multifunctional system should be considered from the economic, social, environmental and political perspectives. The subject of the study. Patterns of development of the agricultural market and the formation of new economic relationships of economic entities corresponding to the level of development of the market economy at the regional level. The purpose and objectives of the study. The need to critically assess the economic situation that has developed in the agricultural production of Kazakhstan, and to justify ways to improve its economic efficiency. The necessity of program-targeted regulation of the economy of agricultural production in Kazakhstan is justified: the main directions of effective development of agricultural production in Kazakhstan are identified; mechanisms for improving the efficiency of agricultural production are proposed; the main elements of socio-economic security are identified in order to improve the real economic and social situation of the rural population; measures are recommended to improve the effective use of agricultural land as the main means of production. The scientific novelty of the work consists in the further development of the methodology and applied aspects of the study of the problem of increasing the economic efficiency of agricultural production and the development of a major problem of increasing agricultural production, revealing significant reserves for the implementation of the Food Program.
ВЛИЯНИЕ КЛИМАТИЧЕСКИХ ФАКТОРОВ НА ГИДРОЛОГИЧЕСКИЙ РЕЖИМ ВОДОСБОРА БАССЕЙНА РЕКИ ТОБОЛ
Authors: Kozykeyeva Aliya , Mustafayev Zhumakhan , Tastemirova Baktykul
Published: June 2021

В настоящее время направление гидрологических исследований, освещающих те или иные аспекты влияния климатических факторов на среднегодовой расход воды речных бассейнов, меняется в связи с изменением климата, являющихся функцией годовых атмосферных осадков и среднегодовой температуры воздуха, характеризующих испарение, то есть гидрометеорологических компонентов географического ландшафта, отражающих то соотношение тепла и влаги, которое свойственно географической зоне. Одной из наиболее важных задач в области гидрологических исследований является изучение генезиса многолетних колебаний среднегодового расхода воды и климатических показателей водосбора речных бассейнов идея выявления их региональных закономерностей разработаны современные географические информационные системы и алгоритмы, позволяющие быстро и качественно решить эту задачу. На основе их сформирована база исследований, охватывающих период 1934-2020 годов, которая базируется на информационно-аналитических материалах справочно-информационного портала «Погода и климат», РГП «Казгидромет», Всемирной Метеорологической Организации (ВМО) и РГУ «Тобол-Торгайская бассейновая инспекция по регулированию использования и охране водных ресурсов». Цикличность среднегодовых расходов воды, среднегодовых температур воздуха и годовых атмосферных осадков для водосбора бассейна реки Тобол неодинаково проявляется в отдельные периоды на той или иной фазе развития, то есть существует различие в характере колебаний климата и гидрологического стока, что не позволяет выявить уровень синхронности на основе математического моделирования линейных трендов и разностных интегральных кривых. Для оценки степени синхронности среднегодовых расходов воды и среднегодовых температур воздуха и атмосферных осадков разработано методическое обеспечение, реализованное в водосборах бассейна реки Тобол, которые показали, что в условиях степной зоны Северного Казахстана их степень синхронности низкая, так как в рассматриваемой территории основным источником формирования стока является накапливаемый за зиму снежный покров предыдущего года, то есть атмосферных осадков в конце осеннего и начала зимнего периода, которые не учитываются при определении степени синхронности реального года, что требует необходимости уточнения структуры расчетного года с учетом определяющих условий формирования речного стока.
EFFECT OF THE COMPLEX HIGH MOLECULAR FERTILIZER STRESSTOP ON THE YIELD AND BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF POTATO TUBERS
Authors: Memeshov Sansyzbay , Aitbaev Temirzhan , Suraganova Aizhan , Suraganov Miras
Published: June 2021

This article discusses the methods and standards for the use of complex high molecular fertilizer StresStop on potatoes in the conditions of the Akmola region. The article deals with the influence of the complex high molecular fertilizer StresStop on the yield, marketable qualities and biochemical composition of potatoes, depending on the norms of its application and the phase of development of potato plants. During the phase-by-phase treatment with StresStop fertilizer, at the doses recommended by the manufacturing institutions, the content of dry matter, starch and vitamin C in potato tubers changes, while the content of toxic elements in potatoes does not change significantly. A significant effect of a complex high molecular fertilizer on potato yield was determined. The greatest increase in the potato yield +9.1 t / ha in comparison with the control variant was provided by spraying the variant treated with 0.01% StresStop solution in the full germination + flowering phase, where the yield was 17.5. The use of a complex high molecular fertilizer contributes to an increase in the yield, commodity and quality indicators of potatoes, while the study showed that the content of toxic elements in potatoes does not change significantly
МИКРООРГАНИЗМДЕРДІҢ КРАХМАЛ НЕГІЗІНДЕГІ МАТЕРИАЛДАРДЫ ЫДЫРАТУ ҚАБІЛЕТТІЛІКТЕРІН ЗЕРТТЕУ
Authors: Sydykbekova R. K. , Medeubekova B.M. , Karabaeva I. Zh. , Urkimbayeva P.I.
Published: June 2021

Қазіргі уақытта әр түрлі өнімдердің қаптамаларының топырақта ұзақ уақытта ыдырамауы қалдықтардың көбеюіне әкелуде. Соның бір мысалы ретінде синтетикалық полимерлер негізіндегі қаптамалардың деградацияға төзімділігі, сондықтан олар қоршаған ортада ұзақ уақыт қалады және қоршаған ортаға зиянды әсер етеді. Сондай-ақ көп мөлшерде қалдықтардың жиналуы қоршаған ортада көптеген мәселелердің негізі болып табылады және сол үшінде жыл сайын бізге жаңа қоқыс алаңы қажет. Бұл мәселелердің шешімі биологиялық ыдырайтын полимерлер болып саналады. Осыған байланысты мақалада микроорганизмдердің крахмал негізіндегі материалдарды ыдырату қабілеттіліктерін зерттеу жүргізілген. Ең алдымен топырақтан крахмал негізді материалдарды ыдыратушы микрооранизмдер бөлініп 42 микроорганизм изоляттары бөлініп алынды. Олардың арасында 18 изолят саңырауқұлақ және 24 изолят бактерия болды. Бөліп алған 42 микроорганизм изоляттарының амилазалық белсенділігі тексерілді. Жүргізілген зерттеулер барысында 16 микроорганизм изоляттары әртүрлі деңгейде болса да крахмалды гидролиздеу қабілетін көрсетті. Дегенменде осы изоляттардың арасында 2 бактерия изоляты 21ПМ және 15ЛМ және 4 саңырауқұлақтардың изоляты 7ЛС, 5ЛС,23ПС және 8ЛС колониялары крахмалды декстринге дейін ыдыратып крахмалды гидролиздеу белсенділігін жоғары деңгейде көрсетуімен ерекшеленді. Келесі кезеңде іріктеп алған 6 микроорганизмнің амилазалық белсенділігі анықталынды. Зерттеу нәтижесінде тек бір ғана бактерия 21ПМ штамы едәуір жоғары амилазалық белсенділікті көрсетіп, 1,21±0,02 МЕ дейін болды. Іріктеп алған 21ПМ штамының крахмал негіздегі материалдың әртүрлі мөлшерін (3-9 %) табиғи ортаға жақын жағдайда ыдырау қабілеті зерттелінді. 21ПМ штамы құрамында 3 % крахмал бар полимерлік материал 21ПМ штамының әсерінен 98,9±0,2% дейін, ал құмында 5-9 % полимерлік материалдарды 85,8±0,6% дейін ыдырататындығы анықталынды. 21ПМ штамының систематикалық жағдайын молекулярлық-генетикалық идентификациялау жүргізу барысында Glutamicibacter arilaitensis түріне жататындығы анықталынды. Барлық жүргізілген зерттеулер Glutamicibacter arilaitensis 21ПМ штамын әртүрлі крахмал негізді полимерлік заттарды биодеградациясында қолдануға болатындығы көрсетілді.
Wer gewinnt die Bundestagswahl? Ausgangslage und Szenarien der Regierungsbildung 2021
Authors: Decker Frank
Published: June 2021

Wie die Parteien abschneiden, hängt von mehreren miteinander verbundenen Faktoren ab: der Ausgangslage des Parteiensystem zu Beginn des Wahlkampfes, den Spitzen- bzw. Kanzlerkandidaten, den Themen, die die Wahlauseinandersetzung prägen, den Auswirkungen möglicher oder erwartbarer Regierungsbündnisse und der Kampagne selbst. Verlässlich beschreiben lässt sich hier nur die Ausgangslage. So wenig verlässlich man das Abschneiden der Parteien selbst voraussagen kann, umso treffsicherere Prognosen sind darüber möglich, welche Koalitionen bei einem gegebenen Abschneiden gebildet werden könnten oder würden. Das liegt einerseits daran, dass die Parteien selbst Koalitionspräferenzen haben, die sich zugleich aus ihrem bisherigen Verhalten ableiten lassen. Zum anderen gibt es ungeschriebene Gesetze der Koalitionsbildung. Am wichtigsten ist die Regel, dass das Amt des Regierungschefs von der stärksten Partei innerhalb einer Koalition besetzt wird. Das Ämterstreben (office-seeking) der Parteien kann hier mit den stärker von policy-seeking-Aspekten bestimmten Koalitionspräferenzen unter Umständen kollidieren.
Der Wahl-O-Mat im „Superwahljahr“ – ein lehrendes und lernendes Tool der politischen Bildung
Authors: Marschall Stefan , Schrenk Lea
Published: June 2021

Der Wahl-O-Mat ist eines der populärsten Online-Tools politischer Bildung und hat sich seit 2002 zu einer festen Größe in Wahlkämpfen etabliert. Zwar ist er in seiner Grundidee gleichgeblieben, dennoch hat sich das Tool im Laufe der Zeit dem technischen, kommunikativen und sozialen Wandel angepasst.
Der Bundesrat und das EU-Klimaziel für 2030. Kompromissfindung auf dem kleinsten gemeinsamen Nenner
Authors: Souris Antonios
Published: June 2021

Mit ihrem Vorstoß, das EU-Klimaziel für 2030 zu verschärfen, gelang Kommissionspräsidentin Ursula von der Leyen ein großer Aufschlag, der europaweit für Diskussionen sorgte – so auch im Bundesrat. Dieser beriet die Pläne der Europäischen Kommission im Rahmen seiner im Grundgesetz verbrieften Mitwirkungsrechte in EU-Fragen. Der Beitrag beleuchtet das komplizierte Räderwerk föderaler Willensbildung im Bundesrat und erklärt, warum seine Entscheidungsverfahren einer Kompromissfindung auf dem kleinsten gemeinsamen Nenner den Weg ebnen.
Die parlamentarische Repräsentation als anspruchsvolle Regierungsform – überholt oder doch unverzichtbar für die Zukunft?
Authors: Siefke Sven T. , Kühne Alexander
Published: June 2021

Parlamentarische Repräsentation ist stets entwicklungs- und erklärungsbedürftig. An sie richten sich mehrere Fragen: Schaffen die Parteien die Auswahl der Besten? Soll das Parlament ein Spiegelbild der Gesellschaft sein? Sind Abgeordnete abgehoben? Ist der politische Betrieb von Streit und faulen Kompromissen geprägt? In der Verbindung von Grundsatzfragen und aktuellen Erkenntnissen werden die zentralen Spannungsfelder dieser anspruchsvollen Regierungsform vorgestellt und diskutiert.
Fremde Staatsorgane vor deutschen Strafgerichten – Kleine Betrachtung zur deutschen Völkerstrafrechtspflege aus zwei aktuellen Anlässen
Authors: Kreß Claus
Published: June 2021

Die Ahndung von Völkermord, Verbrechen gegen die Menschlichkeit, Kriegsverbrechen und Angriffskrieg ist deshalb ein Anliegen der Weltgemeinschaft, weil mit diesen Taten fundamentale Normen der internationalen Rechtsordnung verletzt werden. Daran, dass die Geltung solcher Normen nicht (in einem soziologischen Sinn) erodiert, weil ihr Bruch sanktionslos bleibt, besteht nicht nur im Staat des Tatorts oder in den Staaten ein Interesse, deren Staatsangehörige Täter oder Opfer sind, sondern überall. Daher stellt das Völkerrecht diese Tat selbst als sogenannte Völkerstraftaten unter Strafe. Kann die Strafverfolgung nicht von einem der – sei es durch den Tatort, sei es durch die Staatsangehörigkeit von Täter oder Opfer – direkt mit der Tat verbundenen Staaten geahndet werden, so ist zunächst an ein Verfahren vor dem Internationalen Strafgerichtshof oder einem sonst verfügbaren internationalen Strafgericht zu denken.
Verdachtsfall AfD ?
Authors: Adamski Heiner
Published: June 2021

Die Einstufung der AfD als Verdachtsfall wurde am 3. März 2021 vom Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz intern in einer Videokonferenz mitgeteilt. Am 5. März - also zwei Tage später - wurde dem Bundesamt aber vom Verwaltungsgericht Köln (VG Köln) aufgrund eines Eilantrags der AfD die Einstufung der Partei als Verdachtsfall untersagt. Die AfD versteht diese Entscheidung des Gerichts als Erfolg und sogar als Sieg. Das Bundesamt für Verfassungsschutz wäre trotz aller Gefahrenbeschreibungen zur Zurückhaltung gezwungen gewesen. Die Einstufung der AfD als Verdachtsfall war entgegen seiner Zusage öffentlich bekannt geworden. Das Verwaltungsgericht Köln hat deshalb die Einstufung bis zum Abschluss des von der AfD angestrengten Eilverfahrens untersagt. In dem Hängebeschluss heißt es, dass derzeit offen sei, wann über die "gestellten Eilanträge als solche entschieden wird“. Dies kann „einige Zeit“ dauern - und in der Zeit kann sich die AfD an den Wahlkämpfen beteiligen und darauf verweisen, dass sie nicht als Verdachtsfall eingestuft werden darf.
Effects of scapular stabilization exercises on posture and muscle imbalances in women with upper crossed syndrome: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nitayarak Haifah , Charntaraviroj Pornpimol
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Scapular stabilization exercises can improve forward shoulder posture in young women. However, the effects of optimal exercise protocols on neck and shoulder postures, scapular muscle imbalance and thoracic kyphosis are still unclear. OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of scapular stabilization exercises on neck and shoulder postures, scapular muscle imbalance and thoracic kyphosis in young women with upper crossed syndrome. METHODS: Thirty-nine women aged 18–25 years with upper crossed syndrome were recruited. Participants were randomly allocated intotwo groups. The exercise group performed scapular stabilization exercises using elastic bands at 10 repetitions/set, 3 sets/day, and 3 days/week for 4 weeks. The control group did not perform any exercises during the experimental period. The cervical and shoulder angles were evaluated using the Kinovea program. A caliper, handheld dynamometer and flexi ruler were used to evaluate the length of the pectoralis minor, strength of the scapular stabilizer muscles and degree of the mid-thoracic curve, respectively. RESULTS: The exercise group showed significant differences (p< 0.05) in the increase in cervical and shoulder angle, length of the pectoralis minor, and strength of the scapular muscles, except in the degree of mid-thoracic curve compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: This study indicated that scapular stabilization exercises can improve forward head and shoulder posture, increase the flexibility of the pectoralis minor and strengthen the scapular muscles.
Comparison of the effects of low level laser and insoles on pain, functioning, and muscle strength in subjects with stage 2 posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: A randomized study
Authors: Koltak Cansu , Yurt Yasin
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Low level laser therapy (LLLT) is known to be effective in tendinopathies. No study yet investigated the effect of LLLT on posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) in comparison to orthotic treatment. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to compare the effects of LLLT and insole application on pain, function and muscle strength in subjects with stage 2 PTTD. METHODS: Fifty-two subjects with stage 2 PTTD were randomly assigned to the LLLT and insole groups. The foot pain, function and strength of invertor and evertor muscles of the subjects was evaluated before and after treatment, and after 9 months. RESULTS: Significant improvement was observed in the foot function and pain (p< 0.05) in both groups after treatment, but in the 9-month follow-up, the insole group had better values. The increase in 180∘.sec-1 concentric invertor muscle strength was found significant after the treatment and in month-9 as compared to the initial values (p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both treatments are effective in reducing treating foot pain, as well as improving the function in subjects with stage 2 PTTD. However, at the end of the 9-month follow-up, it was seen that insoles were more effective. Neither method had a clinically important effect on muscle strength.
Chronic low back pain changes the latissmus dorsi and gluteus maximus muscles activation pattern and upward scapular rotation: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohamed Rania R. , Abdel-aziem Amr A. , Mohammed Hatem Y. , Diab Reham H.
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic low back pain (LBP) have an impaired dynamic spinal stability, which may lead to arm injuries. OBJECTIVES: To examine the latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus muscles activation pattern and the upward scapular rotation in patients with chronic LBP. METHODS: Sixty-one right-handed males were divided into two groups: chronic LBP group (n= 31) and healthy controls (n= 30). The electromyography (EMG) activities of the right and left latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus were recorded. The upward scapular rotation in different shoulder positions (neutral, 45∘, 90∘, 135∘ abduction and end range) was measured in both groups. RESULTS: The LBP group has a bilateral significant increased EMG of latissimus dorsi (p< 0.05) and significantly decreased EMG of gluteus maximus (p< 0.05) compared to the control group, without significant differences between the right and left sides (p> 0.05). There was a significant increase in upward scapular rotation in the LBP group relative to the control group in all shoulder abduction positions on both sides. The left side upward scapular rotation was more significant than the right (p< 0.05). CONCLUSION: Chronic LBP increased the latissimus dorsi muscle activities and decreased the gluteus maximus activities. It furthermore increased the upward scapular rotation in different shoulder abduction positions.
LncRNA BCAR4 expression predicts the clinical response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced breast cancer
Authors: Gan Feng-Jiao , Li Yi , Xu Meng-Xi , Zhou Tie , Wu Shun , Hu Kang , Li Yan , Sun Su-Hong , Luo Qing
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) is an important treatment for locally advanced breast cancer (LABC). However, there are no effective biomarkers to predict the efficacy. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new biomarkers to predict the response of LABC to NAC. LncRNA BCAR4 has been detected in a variety of malignant tumor tissues and used as a new biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis. However, LncRNA BCAR4 predicts the response of LABC to NAC is unclear. OBJECTIVE: Explore the predictive effect of LncRNA BCAR4 on the efficacy of NAC for LABC in three different evaluation systems. METHODS: First, the TCGA database was used to analyze the expression of LncRNA BCAR4 in 33 kinds of malignant tumors, and further explore its expression in breast cancer and its impact on the survival and prognosis of breast cancer. Furthermore, quantitative methods were used to measure the expression level of LncRNA BCAR4 in cancer tissues of 48 LABC patients, and the correlation between LncRNA BCAR4 and clinicopathological status and response to NAC under the evaluation system of 3, RECIST1.1, Miller-Payne (MP) score and whether it reaches pCR,was analyzed. RESULTS: TCGA data analysis found that LncRNA is highly expressed in a variety of malignant tumor tissues, including breast cancer. And relatively low expression, the shorter the overall survival time of high expression patients. The high expression of LncRNA BCAR4 is related to the size of the tumor, and there are differences in expression between stage I and other stages, but there is no obvious correlation with the positive lymph node and hormone receptor status. Among the three evaluation systems, only in the RECIST 1.1 evaluation system LncRNA BCAR4 has a predictive effect on NAC for LABC. The expression of LncRNA BCAR4 has no significant correlation with clinical stage, Ki-67% and hormone receptor status, and has no significant correlation with whether patients with locally advanced breast cancer obtain pCR during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: LncRNA BCAR4 is highly expressed in LABC tissues and may be an effective marker for predicting the efficacy of NAC for LABC.
Clinical value of tumor-associated antigens and autoantibody panel combination detection in the early diagnostic of lung cancer
Authors: Ouyang Renren , Wu Shiji , Zhang Bo , Wang Ting , Yin Botao , Huang Jin , Wei Wei , Huang Min , Zhang Minxia , Wang Yun , Wang Feng , Hou Hongyan
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the efficiency of combining tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and autoantibodies in the diagnosis of lung cancer. METHODS: The serum levels of TAAs and seven autoantibodies (7-AABs) were detected from patients with lung cancer, benign lung disease and healthy controls. The performance of a new panel by combing TAAs and 7-AABs was evaluated for the early diagnosis of lung cancer. RESULTS: The positive rate of 7-AABs was higher than the single detection of antibody. The positive rate of the combined detection of 7-AABs in lung cancer group (30.2%) was significantly higher than that of healthy controls (16.8%), but had no statistical difference compared with that of benign lung disease group (20.8%). The positive rate of 7-AABs showed a tendency to increase in lung cancer patients with higher tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) stages. For the pathological subtype analysis, the positive rate of 7-AABs was higher in patients with squamous cell carcinoma and small cell lung cancer than that of adenocarcinoma. The levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cytokeratin 19 fragment 211 (CYFRA 21-1) were significantly higher than that of benign lung disease and healthy control groups. An optimal model was established (including 7-AABs, CEA and CYFRA21-1) to distinguish lung cancer from control groups. The performance of this model was superior than that of single markers, with a sensitivity of 52.26% and specificity of 77.46% in the training group. Further assessment was studied in another validation group, with a sensitivity of 44.02% and specificity of 83%. CONCLUSIONS: The diagnostic performance was enhanced by combining 7-AABs, CEA and CYFRA21-1, which has critical value for the screening and early detection of lung cancer.
Immunogenicity of biologics used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Bqain Mariam , Efimov Alex , Baker David , Kang Angray S.
Published: June 2021

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Here we critically evaluate the literature on immunotherapy failure in inflammatory bowel disease patients. In particular anti-drug antibody production, and subsequently loss of response as the primary cause of immunotherapy failure in IBD patients. The benefits of shifting from the “standard” empirical dose escalation approach to therapeutic drug monitoring with anti-TNFα therapy is explored. RECENT FINDINGS: The American Gastroenterology Association and British Society of Gastroenterology both currently recommend the use of reactive therapeutic drug monitoring to guide treatment, following loss of response in inflammatory bowel disease patients with active disease. However, further research is required to prove the efficacy of a proactive therapeutic drug monitoring approach alone in remitted IBD patients. SUMMARY: A combination of personalised monitoring approach for anti-drug antibodies and therapeutic drug monitoring could provide beneficial treatment outcome for people with inflammatory bowel disease by predicting drug failure prior to clinical symptoms and allowing timely switching to an alternative drug.
Correlations of social media performance and electoral results in Brazilian presidential elections
Authors: dos Santos Brito Kellyton , de Lemos Meira Silvio Romero , Adeodato Paulo Jorge Leitão
Published: June 2021

The use of social media (SM) in modern political activities has reshaped how politicians run electoral campaigns. This study aims to improve the understanding of online campaigns and their correlation with electoral results. We focus on the 2018 Brazilian presidential campaign, which is well known for its strong online presence, and analyze how candidates used their SM profiles, as well as how citizens interacted with them. We propose a new set of metrics for modeling SM performance and identify statistical correlations between SM performance and votes received. For this, we analyzed more than 40,000 posts made by the 13 candidates on Brazil’s three major social networks (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) from January to October 2018. Results indicate that candidates used SM heavily throughout the year but focused on engaging words and avoided contentious topics. The most voted-for candidate received more than half (55%) of the interactions received by all the candidates. Posts’ interactions were highest on Instagram, where users were increasing the attention given to political content. Lastly, we found strong correlations between the proposed metrics and votes received. Thus, proposed metrics may support new models for predicting electoral results using combined data from many social networks.
Effect of a Multidomain Lifestyle Intervention on Estimated Dementia Risk
Authors: Solomon Alina , Handels Ron , Wimo Anders , Antikainen Riitta , Laatikainen Tiina , Levälahti Esko , Peltonen Markku , Soininen Hilkka , Strandberg Timo , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Kivipelto Miia , Ngandu Tiia
Published: June 2021

We investigated the effect of a multidomain lifestyle intervention on the risk of dementia estimated using the validated CAIDE risk score (post-hoc analysis). The Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER) is a 2-year randomized controlled trial among 1,260 at-risk older adults (60–77 years). Difference in the estimated mean change in CAIDE score at 2 years in the intervention compared to the control group was –0.16 (95 %CI –0.31 to 0.00) (p = 0.013), corresponding to a relative dementia risk reduction between 6.04–6.50%. This could be interpreted as a reflection of the prevention potential of the intervention.
Effect of Age on Clinical Trial Outcome in Participants with Probable Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Targum Steven D. , Fosdick Lisa , Drake Kristen E. , Rosenberg Paul B. , Burke Anna D. , Wolk David A. , Foote Kelly D. , Asaad Wael F. , Sabbagh Marwan , Smith Gwenn S. , Lozano Andres M. , Lyketsos Constantine G.
Published: June 2021

Background: Age may affect treatment outcome in trials of mild probable Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: We examined age as a moderator of outcome in an exploratory study of deep brain stimulation targeting the fornix (DBS-f) region in participants with AD. Methods: Forty-two participants were implanted with DBS electrodes and randomized to double-blind DBS-f stimulation (“on”) or sham DBS-f (“off”) for 12 months. Results: The intervention was safe and well tolerated. However, the selected clinical measures did not differentiate between the “on” and “off” groups in the intent to treat (ITT) population. There was a significant age by time interaction with the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale; ADAS-cog-13 (p = 0.028). Six of the 12 enrolled participants < 65 years old (50%) markedly declined on the ADAS-cog-13 versus only 6.7%of the 30 participants≥65 years old regardless of treatment assignment (p = 0.005). While not significant, post-hoc analyses favored DBS-f “off” versus “on” over 12 months in the < 65 age group but favored DBS-f “on” versus “off” in the≥65 age group on all clinical metrics. On the integrated Alzheimer’s Disease rating scale (iADRS), the effect size contrasting DBS-f “on” versus “off” changed from +0.2 (favoring “off”) in the < 65 group to –0.52 (favoring “on”) in the≥65 age group. Conclusion: The findings highlight issues with subject selection in clinical trials for AD. Faster disease progression in younger AD participants with different AD sub-types may influence the results. Biomarker confirmation and genotyping to differentiate AD subtypes is important for future clinical trials.
Compressive sensing based routing and data reconstruction scheme for IoT based WSNs
Authors: Aziz Ahmed , Singh Karan , Osamy Walid , Khder Ahmed M. , Tuan Le Minh , Son Le Hoang , Long Hoang Viet , Rakhmonov Dilshodjon
Published: June 2021

Data acquisition problem on large distributed wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is considered as a challenge in the growth of Internet of Things (IoT). Recently, the combination of compressive sensing (CS) and routing techniques has attracted much attention of researchers. An open question of this combination is how to integrate these techniques effectively for specific tasks. On the other hand, CS data reconstruction process is considered as one of the CS challenges because it requires to recover N data from only M measurement where M< <N. Through this paper, we propose a new scheme for data gathering in IoT based heterogeneous WSN that includes a new effective Deterministic Clustering using CS technique (DCCS) to handle the data acquisition problem. DCCS reduces the total overhead computational cost needed to self-organize WSN using a simple approach and then uses CS at each sensor node to decrease the overall energy consumption and increase the network lifetime. The proposed scheme includes also an effective CS reconstruction algorithm called Random Selection Matching Pursuit (RSMP) to improve the recovery process at the base station (BS). RSMP adds a random selection process during the forward step to give the opportunity for more columns to be selected as an estimated solution in each iteration. The simulation results show that the proposed scheme succeeds to minimize the overall network power consumption and prolong the network lifetime beside provide better performance in CS data reconstruction.
An integrated fuzzy inference system and AHP approach for criticality analysis of assets: A case study of a gas refinery
Authors: Shahri Majid Mardani , Jahromi Abdolhamid Eshraghniaye , Houshmand Mahmoud
Published: June 2021

The purpose of maintenance is to ensure the maximum efficiency and availability of production assets at optimal cost considering quality, safety, and environmental aspects. Assets criticality analysis is one of the main steps in many maintenance methodologies, including Reliability Centered Maintenance. The present study seeks to provide a solution for determining critical assets for more efficient maintenance management. In this regard, an integrated approach of the analytical hierarchy process and fuzzy inference system was proposed based on the concept of the risk matrix. According to the concept of the risk matrix, two main criteria of failure consequences and probability were employed to determine assets criticality. Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to consider all sub-criteria of failure consequences and probability. Finally, using two main criteria as inputs, a fuzzy inference system was developed to determine the criticality of the assets. The proposed approach was implemented in a gas refinery; the results showed its effectiveness and applicability in the process of prioritizing assets based on criticality criteria. The proposed approach has the advantages of multi-criteria decision-making techniques, modeling ambiguity and uncertainty in real issues, modeling the process of inference in the human mind, and storing the knowledge of the organization’s expert.
An uncertain SEIR rumor model
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Shi Gang , Sheng Yuhong
Published: June 2021

In this paper, an uncertain SEIR rumor model driven by one uncertain process is formulated to investigate the influence of perturbation in the transmission of rumor. Firstly, the deduced process of the uncertain SEIR rumor model is presented. Then, we proposed the existence and uniqueness theorem for the solution of the model. Moreover, the study of the stability of the uncertain SEIR rumor model was carried out, and then we came to the conclusion that the model stable in mean. In addition, computer algorithm and numerical simulation is used to verify the accuracy of the theoretical results. The simulation results show that the proposed model can explain the trend of rumor propagation correctly and describe the rumor propagation accurately. Finally, we have compared the propagation process of the uncertain rumor model and the deterministic model according to the numerical algorithm, and drew the conclusion that the model with uncertain perturbation fluctuates around the deterministic model.
Music classroom assistant teaching system based on intelligent speech recognition
Authors: Long Chao , Wang Shan
Published: June 2021

In order to improve the effect of music classroom teaching and the degree of informatization, this paper builds a music classroom auxiliary teaching system with the support of intelligent speech recognition technology, and conducts in-depth research on the audio classification and segmentation technology of music teaching classrooms. Moreover, this paper uses support vector machines to divide audio into five types: mute, background sound, song music, speech, and noisy speech. At the same time, this paper also proposes a smoothing method based on the classification result sequence to obtain audio segmentation points. In addition, this paper constructs a system model based on the actual needs of music classroom teaching, and performs vocal feature recognition with the support of intelligent speech recognition. Finally, this paper verifies and analyzes the performance of the system constructed in this paper through experimental research. The research results show that the intelligent music classroom auxiliary teaching system constructed in this paper has a certain effect.
Research on the security of Web-based ideological and political education resource information system based on AMP
Authors: Zhang Ruixue
Published: June 2021

In order to improve the security of the Web-based ideological and political education resource information system, this paper analyzes the current privacy protection research and the privacy protection mechanism of Web services, and constructs a service framework of the ideological and political education resource information system based on the AMP module. Moreover, this paper explains the design and implementation of the overall framework, and then focuses on the design and implementation of AMP based on Agent, connection pool and sleep pool. In addition, this paper calculates the basic parameters related to the model, and describes the configuration and function of the parameters in detail. Finally, this paper applies AMP to the practice of the Web-based ideological and political education resource information system, and analyzes the system performance through experimental research. The results show that the system constructed in this paper has achieved a relatively perfect effect.
The Minimal Clinical Important Difference (MCID) in Annual Rate of Change of Timed Function Tests in Boys with DMD
Authors: Duong Tina ,   CINRG-DNHS Investigators, Canbek Jennifer , Birkmeier Marisa , Nelson Leslie , Siener Catherine , Fernandez-Fernandez Alicia , Henricson Erik , McDonald Craig M. , Gordish-Dressman Heather
Published: June 2021

Background: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare x-linked recessive genetic disorder affecting 1 in every 5000–10000 [1, 2]. This disease leads to a variable but progressive sequential pattern of muscle weakness that eventually causes loss of important functional milestones such as the ability to walk. With promising drugs in development to ameliorate the effects of muscle weakness, these treatments must be associated with a clinically meaningful functional change. Objective: The objective of this analysis is to determine both distribution, minimal detectable change (MDC), and anchor-based, minimal clinically important difference, (MCID) of 12 month change values in standardized time function tests (TFT) used to monitor disease progression in DMD. Method: This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from a multi-center prospective natural history study with the Cooperative International Neuromuscular Research Group (CINRG). This study calculated MDC and MCID values for 3 commonly used timed function tests typically used to monitor disease progression; supine to stand (STS), 10 meter walk/run (10MWT), and 4 stair climb (4SC). MDC used standard error of measurement (SEM) while MCID measurements used the Vignos scale as an anchor to determine clinical change in functional status. Results: All 3 TFT were significantly important clinical endpoints to detect MDC and MCID changes. MDC and MCID 12 month changes were significant in 10MWT (–0.138, –0.212), Supine to Stand (–0.026, –0.023) and 4 stair climb (–0.034, –0.035) with an effect size greater or close to 0.2. Conclusion: The 3 TFT are clinically meaningful endpoints used to establish change in DMD. MCID values were higher than MDC values indicating that an anchor-based approach using Vignos as a clinically meaningful loss of lower extremity abilities is appropriate to assess change in boys with DMD.
Clinical and Genetic Analysis of Psychosis in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Radojević Branislava , Dragašević-Mišković Nataša T. , Marjanović Ana , Branković Marija , Dobričić Valerija , Milovanović Andona , Tomić Aleksandra , Svetel Marina , Petrović Igor , Jančić Ivan , Stanisavljević Dejana , Savić Miroslav M. , Kostić Vladimir S.
Published: June 2021

Background: Recent studies explored polymorphisms of multiple genes as contributing to genetic susceptibility to psychosis in Parkinson’s disease (PDP). Objective: We aimed to examine the association of seven selected polymorphisms of genes related to dopamine pathways with PDP development. At the same time, demographic and clinical correlates of PDP were assessed. Methods: PD patients (n = 234), treated with levodopa for at least two years, were genotyped for the rs4680 in COMT, rs6277, rs1076560, and rs2283265 in DRD2, and rs1800497 and rs2734849 polymorphisms in ANKK1 genes. Also, variable number of tandem repeats polymorphism in the DAT gene was examined. Each patient underwent comprehensive neurological examination, assessment of psychosis, as defined by the NINDS/NIMH criteria, as well as screening of depression, anxiety, and cognitive status. Results: Diagnostic criteria for PDP were met by 101 (43.2%) patients. They had longer disease duration, were taking higher doses of dopaminergic agents, and had higher scores of the motor and non-motor scales than the non-PDP group. Multivariate regression analysis revealed LEDD≥900 mg, Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale III part score, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score≥7, the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale score > 14,and GG homozygotes of rs2734849 ANKK1 as independent predictors of the onset of PDP. Conclusion: Besides previous exposure to dopaminergic drugs, impairment of motor status, depression and anxiety, as well-established clinical risk factors for the development of PDP, GG rs2734849 ANKK1 could also be a contributing factor, which requires addressing by future longitudinal studies.
A Mediterranean-type diet improved systemic inflammation in multiple sclerosis patients, as compared to the traditional Iranian diet: A single-center randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mirashrafi Shahrzad , Borzoo-Isfahani Mohammad , Namjoo Iman , Hojjati Kermani Mohammad Ali , Moravejolahkami Amir Reza
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND: There is overwhelming scientific evidence that dietary modifications is beneficial in neurodegenerative diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to explore the effects of modified Mediterranean Diet (mMeD) on systemic inflammation, anthropometric indices, and relapse rate in MS patients. METHODS: This single-center, randomized controlled trial compared mMeD and traditional Iranian diet (as control) during six months in 180 Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) patients. Serum high sensitivity C Reactive Protein (hs-CRP), body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), percent body fat, and relapse rate were evaluated at baseline, and 3 and 6 months later. Multivariate analysis of covariance test (MANCOVA; conducted by SPSS 24) was adjusted for age, gender, family history, duration of MS and education level. RESULTS: Of 261 screened patients (July 2018-February 2019), 180 patients were eligible; 68/90 as mMeD and 79/90 as control group completed the study. Self-reported adherence was excellent (95%). The mean change on the relapse rate was –0.54±0.9 compared to –0.03±0.4 for control group (P = 0.004). In addition, hs-CRP levels decreased in the mMeD group (–2.9±3.3 mg/L; P < 0.001) and mean changes were significant between two groups (P < 0.001). Anthropometric indices were modified in mMeD group, whereas between-group comparisons were not statistically different. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, mMeD improved inflammatory status and relapse rate in RRMS patients. Future trials with larger scale and longer duration should be conducted to confirm the role of diet as a disease-modifier in MS.