bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert nurses’ coping strategies in ethically challenging situations: a qualitative study
Authors: Kim Yeon Hee , Kang Young-ah , Ok Jeong Hui , Choe Kwisoon
Published: September 2021

Background

Nurses frequently encounter ethically challenging situations in everyday practice. In these situations, nurses often know an appropriate course of action to take but are unable to do so. Many studies have examined the ethically challenging situations faced by nurses, but how nurses cope with these situations is not well understood. Therefore, this study aims to explore the coping strategies used or adopted in ethically challenging situations by expert nurses in South Korea.

Methods

Participants were recruited via purposive sampling. Small group interviews were conducted with 26 expert registered nurses in a general hospital in South Korea. The data were analyzed using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method.

Results

The essential theme of nurses’ experience of coping with ethically challenging situations was “being faithful to the nature of caring.” This essential theme comprised three themes: self-monitoring of ethical insensitivity, maintaining honesty, and actively acting as an advocate.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that the coping strategies of expert nurses are mostly consistent with the attributes of ethical competence as previously defined in healthcare, and expert nurses can address ethically challenging situations in an effective and ethical manner by faithfully adhering to the spirit of caring. System-wide early counseling and interventions should be considered for nurses who have experienced ethical difficulties.
Identification and validation of pivotal genes related to age-related meniscus degeneration based on gene expression profiling analysis and in vivo and in vitro models detection
Authors: Chen Ming , Zhou Siqi , Shi Huasong , Gu Hanwen , Wen Yinxian , Chen Liaobin
Published: September 2021

Background

The componential and structural change in the meniscus with aging would increase the tissue vulnerability of the meniscus, which would induce meniscus tearing. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism of age-related meniscus degeneration with gene expression profiling analysis, and validate pivotal genes in vivo and in vitro models.

Methods

The GSE45233 dataset, including 6 elderly meniscus samples and 6 younger meniscus samples, was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. To screen the differential expression of mRNAs and identify the miRNAs targeting hub genes, we completed a series of bioinformatics analyses, including functional and pathway enrichment, protein–protein interaction network, hub genes screening, and construction of a lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA network. Furthermore, crucial genes were examined in human senescent menisci, mouse senescent meniscus tissues and mouse meniscus cells stimulated by IL-1β.

Results

In total, the most significant 4 hub genes (RRM2, AURKB, CDK1,andTIMP1) and 5 miRNAs (hsa-miR-6810-5p, hsa-miR-4676-5p, hsa-miR-6877-5p, hsa-miR-8085, and hsa-miR-6133) that regulated such 4 hub genes, were finally identified. Moreover, these hub genes were decreased in meniscus cells in vitro and meniscus tissues in vivo, which indicated that hub genes were related to meniscus senescence and could serve as potential biomarkers for age-related meniscus tearing.

Conclusions

In short, the integrated analysis of gene expression profile, co-expression network, and models detection identified pivotal genes, which elucidated the possible molecular basis underlying the senescence meniscus and also provided prognosis clues for early-onset age-related meniscus tearing.
Direct oral anticoagulants versus low molecular weight heparins for the treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Wumaier Kaidireyahan , Li Wenqian , Chen Naifei , Cui Jiuwei
Published: September 2021

Background

Recently, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been included in guidelines for the treatment of cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT) to be extended to suitable cancer patients. The purpose of this study was to compare the cost-effectiveness of using DOACs and low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) for treating CAT from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system.

Methods

A Markov model was constructed to estimate the cost-effectiveness of the two strategies with a 6-month and 5-year time horizon. Input parameters were either sourced from the clinical trial, published literature. The primary outcome of the model was reported as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). Sensitivity analyses were performed to test model uncertainty.

Results

The 6-month cost of DOACs was $ 654.65 with 0.40 quality adjusted life-years (QALYs) while the 6-month cost of LMWHs was $USD 1719.31 with 0.37 QALYs. Similarly, treatment with DOACs had a lower cost ($USD 657.85 vs. $USD 1716.56) and more health benefits (0.40 QALYs vs. 0.37 QALYs) than treatment with LMWHs in a subgroup of patients with gastrointestinal malignancy. We found treatment with DOACs would result in a large reduction in cost ($USD 1447.22 vs. $USD 3374.70) but a small reduction in QALYs (3.07 QALYs vs. 3.09 QALYs) compared with LMWHs over a 5-year time frame, resulting in an ICER of $USD 112895.50/QALYs. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the results.

Conclusion

As compared to LMWHs, DOACs can be a cost-saving anticoagulant choice for the treatment of CAT in the general oncology population and gastrointestinal malignancy population.
An efficient protein extraction method applied to mangrove plant Kandelia obovata leaves for proteomic analysis
Authors: Fei Jiao , Wang You-Shao , Cheng Hao , Su Yu-Bin
Published: September 2021

Background

Mangroves plants, an important wetland system in the intertidal shores, play a vital role in estuarine ecosystems. However, there is a lack of a very effective method for extracting protein from mangrove plants for proteomic analysis. Here, we evaluated the efficiency of three different protein extraction methods for proteomic analysis of total proteins obtained from mangrove plant Kandelia obovata leaves.

Results

The protein yield of the phenol-based (Phe-B) method (4.47 mg/g) was significantly higher than the yields of the traditional phenol (Phe) method (2.38 mg/g) and trichloroacetic acid-acetone (TCA-A) method (1.15 mg/g). The Phe-B method produced better two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) protein patterns with high reproducibility regarding the number, abundance and coverage of protein spots. The 2-DE gels showed that 847, 650 and 213 unique protein spots were separated from the total K. obovata leaf proteins extracted by the Phe-B, Phe and TCA-A methods, respectively. Fourteen pairs of protein spots were randomly selected from 2-DE gels of Phe- and Phe-B- extracted proteins for identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF-MS) technique, and the results of three pairs were consistent. Further, oxygen evolving enhancer protein and elongation factor Tu could be observed in the 2-DE gels of Phe and Phe-B methods, but could only be detected in the results of the Phe-B methods, showing that Phe-B method might be the optimized choice for proteomic analysis.

Conclusion

Our data provides an improved Phe-B method for protein extraction of K. obovata and other mangrove plant tissues which is rich in polysaccharides and polyphenols. This study might be expected to be used for proteomic analysis in other recalcitrant plants.
Olfactory impairment in patients with primary Sjogren’s syndrome and its correlation with organ involvement and immunological abnormalities
Authors: Xu Xue , Geng Linyu , Chen Chen , Kong Wentao , Wen Baojie , Kong Wei , Chen Siwen , Zhang Huayong , Liang Jun , Sun Lingyun
Published: September 2021

Objective

Patients with autoimmune diseases often present with olfactory impairment. The aim of the study was to assess the olfactory functions of patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome and to correlate these findings with their disease activity.

Methods

Fifty-two patients with primary SS and 52 sex- and age-matched healthy control subjects were included. All of them underwent clinical and laboratory examination. Olfactory functions were evaluated using olfactory function assessment by computerized testing including the three stages of smell: threshold, identification, and memory of the different odors.

Results

All the olfactory scores (olfactory threshold, identification, and memory) in patients with pSS were significantly decreased than the control group (all P < 0.01). Patients had higher proportion of anosmia (13.5% vs 0%) and hyposmia (19.2% vs 11.5%) than controls (χ2 = 10.526, P < 0.01). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that ESSDAI and the symptoms of dryness, fatigue, and limb pain had negative influence on olfactory function (adjusted R2 = 0.381, 0.387, 0.513, and 0.614, respectively). ESSPRI showed significantly negative association with olfactory threshold, identification, memory, and total scores. Olfactory identification and memory scores were decreased in pSS patients with thyroid dysfunction or hypocomplementemia (P < 0.05). Smell threshold scores were decreased in pSS patients with anti-SSA antibody or anti-nuclear antibody compared with those without those autoantibodies (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that olfactory functions are impaired in pSS patients. There was a close correlation between olfactory dysfunction and disease severity and immunological abnormalities. Immune and systemic inflammation dysregulation might play a role in the mechanism of this defect.
Challenges in treatment of renal echinococcosis with gross hydatiduria and unsalvageable kidney: a case report
Authors: Shuaibi Sameera , AlAshqar Abdelrahman , Alabdulhadi Munirah , Al-Adsani Wasl
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Renal echinococcosis is of rare occurrence, and although often asymptomatic, it can present with various mild to drastic presentations, of which hydatiduria is pathognomonic. Diagnosis can be preliminarily established by imaging, and treatment is primarily surgical. We present a patient with renal echinococcosis treated successfully with exclusive antiparasitic pharmacotherapy after refusing surgery despite extensive renal involvement. We hope through this report to help establish future solid guidelines regarding this uncommon therapeutic approach.

Case presentation

This is a case of a 49-year-old Syrian shepherd presenting with flank pain and passage of grape-skin-like structures in urine. A diagnosis of renal echinococcosis with hydatiduria and significant parenchymal destruction was established based on exposure history, positive serology, imaging findings, and renal scintigraphy. After proper counseling, the patient refused nephrectomy and was therefore started on dual pharmacotherapy (albendazole and praziquantel) and is having an uneventful follow-up and a satisfactory response to treatment.

Conclusion

This case embodies the daily challenges physicians navigate as they uphold the ethical principles of their practice and support their patients’ autonomy while delivering the best standards of care and consulting the scientific evidence. Although surgery is the cornerstone of renal echinococcosis treatment, treating physicians should be prepared to tackle situations where surgery cannot be done and offer the best next available option for patients who refuse surgery. As data on exclusive pharmacotherapy are limited, future research should thoroughly investigate the efficacy of this uncommon approach and outline reliable recommendations, facilitating future clinical decision-making in this avenue.
Recognition of printed small texture modules based on dictionary learning
Authors: Yu Lifang , Cao Gang , Tian Huawei , Cao Peng , Zhang Zhenzhen , Shi Yun Q.
Published: September 2021

Quick Response (QR) codes are designed for information storage and high-speed reading applications. To store additional information, Two-Level QR (2LQR) codes replace black modules in standard QR codes with specific texture patterns. When the 2LQR code is printed, texture patterns are blurred and their sizes are smaller than$$0.5{\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$$

0.5

cm

2

. Recognizing small-sized blurred texture patterns is challenging. In original 2LQR literature, recognition of texture patterns is based on maximizing the correlation between print-and-scanned texture patterns and the original digital ones. When employing desktop printers with large pixel extensions and low-resolution capture devices, the recognition accuracy of texture patterns greatly reduces. To improve the recognition accuracy under this situation, our work presents a dictionary learning based scheme to recognize printed texture patterns. To our best knowledge, it is the first attempt to use dictionary learning to promote the recognition accuracy of printed texture patterns. In our scheme, dictionaries for all kinds of texture patterns are learned from print-and-scanned texture modules in the training stage. And these learned dictionaries are employed to represent each texture module in the testing stage (extracting process) to recognize their texture pattern. Experimental results show that our proposed algorithm significantly reduces the recognition error of small-sized printed texture patterns.
Integrating morphological spatial pattern analysis and the minimal cumulative resistance model to optimize urban ecological networks: a case study in Shenzhen City, China
Authors: Li Yang-Yang , Zhang Yu-Zhe , Jiang Zhi-Yun , Guo Cheng-Xuan , Zhao Ming-Yue , Yang Zhi-Guang , Guo Ming-Yan , Wu Bing-Yue , Chen Quan-Ling
Published: September 2021

Background

With the increasing fragmentation of landscape induced by rapid urbanization, the construction of ecological networks is of great significance to alleviate the degradation of urban habitats and protect natural environments. However, there is considerable uncertainty when constructing ecological networks, especially the different approaches to selecting ecological sources. We used the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen as a study area to construct and optimize ecological networks using a coupling approach. Ecological source areas were extracted using morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) and the landscape index method. Ecological networks were constructed using the minimal cumulative resistance (MCR) model and the gravity model. Stepping stones and ecological fault points were added in corridors to optimize the ecological network.

Results

Ten core areas with maximum importance patch values were extracted by the landscape index method as ecological source areas according to MSPA, after which corridors between ecological sources were constructed based on the MCR model. The constructed ecological networks were optimized using 35 stepping stones and 17 ecological fault points. The optimized ecological networks included 11 important corridors, 34 general corridors, and seven potential corridors. The results of corridor landscape-type analysis showed that a suitable ecological corridor is 60 to 200 m wide.

Conclusions

Overall, our results imply that ecological source areas can be identified virtually, and that ecological networks can be significantly optimized by combining MSPA and MCR models. These results provide a methodological reference for constructing ecological networks, and they will be useful for urban planning and biodiversity protection in Shenzhen and other similar regions around the world.
Modeling brain connectivity dynamics in functional magnetic resonance imaging via particle filtering
Authors: Ambrosi Pierfrancesco , Costagli Mauro , Kuruoğlu Ercan E. , Biagi Laura , Buonincontri Guido , Tosetti Michela
Published: September 2021

Interest in the studying of functional connections in the brain has grown considerably in the last decades, as many studies have pointed out that alterations in the interaction among brain areas can play a role as markers of neurological diseases. Most studies in this field treat the brain network as a system of connections stationary in time, but dynamic features of brain connectivity can provide useful information, both on physiology and pathological conditions of the brain. In this paper, we propose the application of a computational methodology, named Particle Filter (PF), to study non-stationarities in brain connectivity in functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI). The PF algorithm estimates time-varying hidden parameters of a first-order linear time-varying Vector Autoregressive model (VAR) through a Sequential Monte Carlo strategy. On simulated time series, the PF approach effectively detected and enabled to follow time-varying hidden parameters and it captured causal relationships among signals. The method was also applied to real fMRI data, acquired in presence of periodic tactile or visual stimulations, in different sessions. On these data, the PF estimates were consistent with current knowledge on brain functioning. Most importantly, the approach enabled to detect statistically significant modulations in the cause-effect relationship between brain areas, which correlated with the underlying visual stimulation pattern presented during the acquisition.
A case of burn evisceration with full-thickness injury to abdominal wall, bowel, bladder, and three extremities
Authors: Shahmanyan Davit , Joy Matthew T. , Collier Bryan R. , Faulks Emily R. , Hamill Mark E.
Published: September 2021

Background

Severe electrical burns are a rare cause of admission to major burn centers. Incidence of electrical injury causing full-thickness injury to viscera is an increasingly scarce, but severe presentation requiring rapid intervention. We report one of few cases of a patient with full-thickness electrical injury to the abdominal wall, bowel, and bladder.

Case report

The patient, a 22-year-old male, was transferred to our institution from his local hospital after sustaining a suspected electrical burn. On arrival the patient was noted to have severe burn injuries to the lower abdominal wall with evisceration of multiple loops of burned small bowel as well as burns to the groin, left upper, and bilateral lower extremities. In the trauma bay, primary and secondary surveys were completed, and the patient was taken for CT imaging and then emergently to the operating room. On exploration, the patient had massive full-thickness burns to the lower abdominal wall, five full-thickness burns to small bowel, and intraperitoneal bladder rupture secondary to full-thickness burn. The patient underwent damage-control laparotomy including enterectomies, debridement of bladder coagulative necrosis, and layered closure of bladder injury followed by temporary abdominal closure with vacuum dressing. The patient also underwent right leg escharotomy and partial right foot fasciotomies. The patient was subsequently transferred to the nearest burn center for continued resuscitation and comprehensive burn care.

Conclusion

Severe electrical burns can be associated with devastating visceral injuries in rare cases. Though uncommon, these injuries are associated with very high mortality rates. The authors assert that rapid evaluation and initial stabilization following ATLS guidelines, damage-control laparotomy, and goal-directed resuscitation in concert with transfer to a major burn center are essential in effecting a successful outcome in these challenging cases.
Acoustic velocity and permeability of acidized and propped fractures in shale
Authors: Ding Jihui , Clark Anthony C. , Vanorio Tiziana , Jew Adam D. , Bargar John R.
Published: September 2021

From geochemical reactions to proppant emplacement, hydraulic fracturing induces various chemomechanical fracture alterations in shale reservoirs. Hydraulic fracturing through the injection of a vast amount and variety of fluids and proppants has substantial impacts on fluid flow and hydrocarbon production. There is a strong need to improve our understanding on how fracture alterations affect flow pathways within the stimulated rock volume and develop monitoring tools. We have conducted time-lapse rock-physics experiments on clay-rich (carbonate-poor) Marcellus shales to characterize the acoustic velocity and permeability responses to fracture acidizing and propping. Acoustic P- and S-wave velocities and fracture permeability were measured before and after laboratory-induced fracture alterations along with microstructural imaging through X-ray computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy. Our experiments indicate that the S-wave velocity is an important geophysical observable, particularly the S-wave polarized perpendicular to fractures because it is sensitive to fracture stiffness. The acidizing and propping of a fracture decrease its elastic stiffness. This effect is stronger for acidizing, so it is possible that proppant monitoring will be masked by chemical alteration except when propping is highly efficient (i.e., most fractures are propped). However, fracture permeability is undermined by the softening of fracture surfaces due to acidizing, while being greatly enhanced by propping. These contrasting effects on fluid flow in combination with similar seismic attributes indicate the importance of experiments to improve existing rock-physics models, which must include changes to the rock frame. Such improvements are necessary for a correct interpretation of seismic velocity monitoring of flow pathways in stimulated shales.
Development and validation of a low-cost direct current resistivity meter for humanitarian geophysics applications
Authors: Sirota Dana , Shragge Jeffrey , Krahenbuhl Richard , Swidinsky Andrei , Yalo Nicaise , Bradford John
Published: September 2021

Insufficient access to safe drinking water is one of the most challenging global humanitarian issues. The development of low-cost microcontrollers and the widespread availability of cheap electronic components raise the possibility of developing and using low-cost geophysical instrumentation with open-source designs and software solutions to circumvent geophysical instrumentation capital cost issues. To these ends, we alter an existing low-cost direct current (DC) resistivity meter design and develop an optional modular Raspberry Pi data-logging system to improve the unit’s functionality and usability and to ensure data integrity. Numerical modeling and physical testing demonstrate that the system is more robust than previously published low-cost designs and works in a more diverse range of geologic scenarios — especially conductive environments. Our instrument was tested in a Geoscientists Without Borders project jointly run between researchers from Colorado School of Mines (CSM) and Université d’Abomey-Calavi (UAC), Cotonou, Benin. A key project component involved CSM and UAC students constructing and validating two low-cost DC resistivity meters and then using these instruments for fieldwork aimed at better characterizing and monitoring the health of a local aquifer used as a groundwater source for communities in the Cotonou region. The low-cost instruments were successfully used alongside a commercial resistivity meter to acquire data for 2D inversion of aquifer hydrostratigraphy, indicating the presence of a clay-sand contact. The costs of the redesigned instrument and data logger, respectively, are $177 and $108 (in 2021 USD) with future cost reductions possible, which are fractions of the price of commercial resistivity meters.
Markov chain Monte Carlo for petrophysical inversion
Authors: Grana Dario , de Figueiredo Leandro , Mosegaard Klaus
Published: September 2021

Stochastic petrophysical inversion is a method used to predict reservoir properties from seismic data. Recent advances in stochastic optimization allow generating multiple realizations of rock and fluid properties conditioned on seismic data. To match the measured data and represent the uncertainty of the model variables, many realizations are generally required. Stochastic sampling and optimization of spatially correlated models are computationally demanding. Monte Carlo methods allow quantifying the uncertainty of the model variables but are impractical for high-dimensional models with spatially correlated variables. We have developed a Bayesian approach based on an efficient implementation of the Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method for the inversion of seismic data for the prediction of reservoir properties. Our Bayesian approach includes an explicit vertical correlation model in the proposal distribution. It is applied trace by trace, and the lateral continuity model is imposed by using the previously simulated values at the adjacent traces as conditioning data for simulating the initial model at the current trace. The methodology is first presented for a 1D problem to test the vertical correlation, and it is extended to 2D problems by including the lateral correlation and comparing two novel implementations based on sequential sampling. Our method is applied to synthetic data to estimate the posterior distribution of the petrophysical properties conditioned on the measured seismic data. The results are compared with an MCMC implementation without lateral correlation and demonstrate the advantage of integrating a spatial correlation model.
Active rheology in odd-viscosity systems
Authors: Reichhardt C. J. O. , Reichhardt C.
Published: September 2021

Odd viscosity arises in systems with time reversal symmetry breaking, which creates non-dissipative effects. One method to probe changes in viscosity is to examine the dynamics of a single probe particle driven though a medium, a technique known as active rheology. We show that active rheology in a system with odd viscosity and no quenched disorder reveals a variety of novel effects, including a speed up of the probe particle with increasing system density when the background medium creates a velocity boost of the driven particle due to the Magnus effect. In contrast, the probe particle velocity in the dissipation-dominated limit monotonically decreases with increasing system density. We also show that the odd viscosity imparts a Hall angle to the probe particle, and that both the Hall angle and the velocity boost depend strongly on the drive. These results should be general to other systems with odd viscosity, including skyrmions in chiral magnets.
Myogenic contraction of a somatic muscle powers rhythmic flow of hemolymph throughDrosophilaantennae and generates brain pulsations
Authors: Kay Alan R. , Eberl Daniel F. , Wang Jing W.
Published: September 2021

Hemolymph is driven through the antennae of Drosophila melanogaster by the rhythmic contraction of muscle 16 (m16), which runs through the brain. Contraction of m16 results in the expansion of an elastic ampulla, opening ostia and filling the ampulla. Relaxation of the ampullary membrane forces hemolymph through vessels into the antennae. We show that m16 is an auto-active rhythmic somatic muscle. The activity of m16 leads to the rapid perfusion of the antenna by hemolymph. In addition, it leads to the rhythmic agitation of the brain, which could be important for clearing the interstitial space.
True UV color vision in a female butterfly with two UV opsins
Authors: Finkbeiner Susan D. , Briscoe Adriana D.
Published: September 2021

In true color vision, animals discriminate between light wavelengths, regardless of intensity, using at least two photoreceptors with different spectral sensitivity peaks. Heliconius butterflies have duplicate UV opsin genes, which encode ultraviolet and violet photoreceptors, respectively. In Heliconius erato, only females express the ultraviolet photoreceptor, suggesting females (but not males) can discriminate between UV wavelengths. We tested the ability of H. erato, and two species lacking the violet receptor, Heliconius melpomene and Eueides isabella, to discriminate between 380 and 390 nm, and between 400 and 436 nm, after being trained to associate each stimulus with a sugar reward. We found that only H. erato females have color vision in the UV range. Across species, both sexes show color vision in the blue range. Models of H. erato color vision suggest that females have an advantage over males in discriminating the inner UV-yellow corollas of Psiguria flowers from their outer orange petals. Moreover, previous models ( McCulloch et al., 2017) suggested that H. erato males have an advantage over females in discriminating Heliconius 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-OHK) yellow wing coloration from non-3-OHK yellow wing coloration found in other heliconiines. These results provide some of the first behavioral evidence for female H. erato UV color discrimination in the context of foraging, lending support to the hypothesis ( Briscoe et al., 2010) that the duplicated UV opsin genes function together in UV color vision. Taken together, the sexually dimorphic visual system of H. erato appears to have been shaped by both sexual selection and sex-specific natural selection.
Synthesis of Oxygen Functional Group-Controlled Monolayer Graphene Oxide
Authors: Tsugawa Tatsuki , Hatakeyama Kazuto , Matsuda Junko , Koinuma Michio , Ida Shintaro
Published: September 2021

Graphene oxide (GO) contains various types of oxygen functional groups (e.g., C–OH, C–O–C, C=O, and O=C–OH groups), which provide superior functions such as proton conductivity, catalytic activity, and selective absorption. In contrast, the complex structure of GO complicates control over its function; therefore, GO with a simple and/or uniform structure is desired. In this study, we demonstrated that monolayer GO, in which surface oxygen functional groups are controlled as epoxy groups, was successfully prepared by exfoliating graphite oxide prepared using Brodie’s method. The monolayer ratio of GO reached 99.2%, and the nanosheets were stable in water for 1 month. Fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and temperature-programmed desorption analyses indicated that most oxygen functional groups on GO were epoxy groups. Further, it was determined that GO had structural regularity over a wide range and small amounts of lattice defects despite being oxidized. This means that the developed GO can potentially advance considerably GO studies by replacing previous GO.
Experimental and Computational Studies on the Interaction between DNA and BSA with a Couple of Isomeric [Pd(daf)(Leu)]+, and [Pd(daf)(Ile)]+ Antitumor Complexes, Their Synthesis and Spectral Characterization
Authors: Heidari Ameneh , Mansouri-Torshizi Hassan , Saeidifar Maryam , Abdi Khatereh
Published: September 2021

A pair of isomeric and unreported complexes, [Pd(daf)(Leu)]Cl (I) and [Pd(daf)(Ile)]Cl (II) (daf, Leu and Ile are dafone, leucine and isoleucine respectively) have been prepared and characterized. They showed in-vitro cytotoxic activities against MCF-7 and HCT-116 cancer cells much higher than a well known anticancer drug i.e. carboplatin. In-detail interaction of these agents with calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) have been investigated by fluorescence, electronic absorption, circular dichroism, and gel electrophoresis techniques. Docking analysis of both metal complexes with DNA and BSA was applied as a supplementary route for the prediction of binding sites and orientation during the interaction processes. Results obtained from all above approaches agreed with good interaction of the metal complexes with DNA grooves and BSA via H-binding and van der Waals forces. In the fluorescence quenching studies of BSA emission, peculiar and unpublished processes to date were observed. Leucine complex initially quenches statically at lower concentration and in combination of static and dynamic at higher, while isoleucine complex affects the fluorescence emission of BSA at its three different concentration ranges: static and combined at lower-, de-quenching at moderate- and again static quenching at higher-concentration ranges.
Study protocol for the SeMaCo study: A longitudinal regional cohort study to assess COVID-19 seroprevalence in blood donors
Authors: Pohl Robert , Krämer Stephan-Werner , Stallmann Christoph , Swart Enno , Marquardt Pauline , Kaasch Achim-Jens , Apfelbacher Christian-Joachim , Heuft Hans-Gert
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Serologic studies are crucial for clarifying the regional dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic as well as the success of a vaccination campaign against COVID-19. We describe a cohort study investigating the seroprevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in Magdeburg (Saxony-Anhalt, Germany).

Protocol and study design: The SeMaCo study (Serologische Untersuchungen bei Blutspendern des Großraums Magdeburg auf Antikörper gegen SARS-CoV-2) is a longitudinal, regional cohort study to assess the seroprevalence of COVID-19 in blood donors from Magdeburg (Capital of Saxony-Anhalt) and surrounding areas. We consider blood donors as a surrogate for the healthy, working-age population of Saxony-Anhalt. The study primarily aims to measure the prevalence and kinetics of IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in first time and repeat blood donors over a period of 21 months. The study explores four survey periods of three to four months each (January–April 21, July–October 21, February–April 22, July–October 22). At each visit, we will assess the attitude towards vaccination, the antibody response following vaccination, as well as undesired vaccination effects. Furthermore, we will collect data on occupational activities, housing conditions and the frequency of family and other social contacts.

Discussion: The SeMaCo study extends the spectrum of seroepidemiological investigations in Germany. A longitudinal observation with repeated testing and serial interviews can provide a more accurate view on the dynamics of COVID-19 prevalence and spread than repeated cross-sectional studies. Based on interim results from similar studies, we expect a seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies below 5% in the first survey period. SeMaCo will influence policy decisions and preventative measures.
Compositional and functional alterations in the oral and gut microbiota in patients with psychosis or schizophrenia: A systematic review
Authors: Murray Nuala , Al Khalaf Sukainah , Kaulmann David , Lonergan Edgar , Cryan John F , Clarke Gerard , Khashan Ali , O’Connor Karen
Published: September 2021

Background: Gut and oral microbiota are intrinsically linked to human health. Recent studies suggest a direct link with mental health through bidirectional gut–brain pathways. Emerging evidence suggests that the composition and/or function of intestinal microbiome differs in those with psychosis and schizophrenia as compared with controls. There is relatively little research on the predicted or actual functional alterations associated with the composition of oral and gut microbiota in patients with psychosis. We will perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify, evaluate and if possible, combine the published literature on compositional alterations in the oral and gut microbiota in patients with psychosis or schizophrenia compared with healthy controls. We also aim to explore the potential functional impact of any compositional changes.

Methods: Original studies involving humans and animals using a case-control, cohort or cross-sectional design will be included. The electronic databases PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science, PubMed/MEDLINE and Cochrane will be systematically searched. Quantitative analyses will be performed using random-effects meta-analyses to calculate mean difference with 95% confidence intervals.

Discussion: Changes in microbiota composition in psychosis and schizophrenia have been correlated with alternations in brain structure and function, altered immunity, altered metabolic pathways and symptom severity. Changes have also been identified as potential biomarkers for psychosis that might aid in diagnosis. Understanding how predicted or actual functional alterations in microbial genes or metabolic pathways influence symptomatic expression and downstream clinical outcomes may contribute to the development of microbiome targeted interventions for psychosis.

Registration: The study is prospectively registered in PROSPERO, the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42021260208).
Verification and validation of an automated robot inspection cell for automotive body-in-white: a use case for the VALU3S ECSEL project
Authors: Kanak Alper , Ergun Salih , Yazıcı Ahmet , Ozkan Metin , Çokünlü Gürol , Yayan Uğur , Karaca Mustafa , Arslan Abdullah Taha
Published: September 2021

Verification and validation (V&V) of systems, and system of systems, in an industrial context has never been as important as today. The recent developments in automated cyber-physical systems, digital twin environments, and Industry 4.0 applications require effective and comprehensive V&V mechanisms. Verification and Validation of Automated Systems' Safety and Security (VALU3S), a Horizon 2020 Electronic Components and Systems for European Leadership Joint Undertaking (ECSEL-JU) project started in May 2020, aims to create and evaluate a multi-domain V&V framework that facilitates evaluation of automated systems from component level to system level, with the aim of reducing the time and effort needed to evaluate these systems. VALU3S focuses on V&V for the requirements of safety, cybersecurity, and privacy (SCP). This paper mainly focuses on the elaboration of one of the 13 use cases of VALU3S to identify the SCP issues in an automated robot inspection cell that is being actively used for the quality control assessment of automotive body-in-white. The joint study here embarks on a collaborative approach that puts the V&V methods and workflows for the robotic arms safety trajectory planning and execution, fault injection techniques, cyber-physical security vulnerability assessment, anomaly detection, and SCP countermeasures required for remote control and inspection. The paper also presents cross-links with ECSEL-JU goals and the current advancements in the market and scientific and technological state-of-play.
ВЛИЯНИЕ ИНОКУЛЯЦИИ RHIZOBIUM LEGUMINOSARUM И AZOTOBACTER CHROOCOCCUM НА СОДЕРЖАНИЕ НЕГАТИВНЫХ АЛЛЕЛОПАТИЧЕСКИХ СОЕДИНЕНИЙ В КОРНЕВЫХ ЭКССУДАТАХ ПРОРОСТКОВ ГОРОХА (PISUM SATIVUM L.)
Authors: Makarova Lyudmila E. , Kapustina Irina S. , Morits Anna S. , Makarov Sviatoslav S.
Published: September 2021

Механизмы взаимодействия бобовых культур с азотфиксирующими бактериями разных типов взаимоотношения с ними (эндо- и эктосимбионты) не изучены, однако исследования их актуальны Данные литературы удостоверяют о проявлениях защитных реакций на начальных этапах взаимодействия бобового растения с бактериями в клетках самого растении и в его ризосфере. На уровне ризосферы показателями этих реакций могут быть изменения содержания в корневых экссудатах компонентов антимикробного действия.
Цель работы – изучение защитной (антимикробной) реакции проростков гороха (Pisum sativum L.) сорта Торсдаг на инокуляцию бактериями Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viceae (эндосимбионт) и Azotobacter chroococcum (эктосимбионт), вносимых в водную среду роста корней. О реакции судили по изменения содержания в корневых экссудатах негативных аллелопатических соединений: пизатина, N-фенил-2-нафтиламина (N-ФНА), фталатов. После инокуляции проростки росли в условиях гидрокультуры 1 сут в камере “BINDER KBW-240” при 21°С, освещении 81 μМ.м-2сек-1 и фотопериоде 16/8 ч (день/ночь). В этилацетатных экстрактах из среды роста корней методом ВЭЖХ определяли содержание перечисленных соединений, а методом ГХ-МС - состав и соотношение фталатов. Обнаружены различия по влиянию ризобий и азотобактера на содержание этих соединений и на соотношения видов фталатов, неодинаковая активность штаммов бактерий в деградировании N-ФНА до фталатов от его концентрации в среде, разное влияние N-ФНА на жизнеспособность использованных в экспериментах бактерий.
Заключение. Изменения в составе исследуемых соединений в среде роста корней у проростков гороха указывают на снижение защитной (антимикробной) реакции в их ризосфере при инокуляции бактериями A. chroococcum, а при инокуляции бактериями R. leguminosarum – на ее усиление.
MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF SPERMATOZOA FROM MALE WHITE RATS UNDER EXPERIMENTAL STRESS
Authors: Arestova Inessa Y. , Sharonova Evgeniya G. , Kupriyanova Marina Y.
Published: September 2021

We present the effect of stressogenic factors on the morphological parameters of spermatozoa.
Objective. We studied the morpho-physiological features of spermatozoa from male albino rats under experimental stress.
Materials and methods. A experiment was carried out using sexually mature outbred white rats. Combined stress was performed to an experimental group: after three days of starvation, an emotional stress of “free swimming in a cage” technique was provided. Under a microscope, the spermatozoa were counted per volume of epididymal suspension, the activity was evaluated, and the morphology was studied.
Results. A study of the epididymal suspension of male rats under starvation and “emotional” stress showed a decrease in the total number of spermatozoa and sperm motility indices, and an increase in the abnormal gamete forms compared to the control.
Conclusion. The combined effect of even short-term stressogenic factors leads to significant changes in the spermogram, allowing the quantitative and qualitative seminal fluid parameters to be a convincing criterion of maladaptation processes in the body under the stress.
THE IMPACT OF HUMAN CAPITAL ON THE SUCCESS OF AN AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE (EXAMPLE OF ‘ARLA FOODS’)
Authors: Golovina Svetlana G. , Mikolaychik Ivan N. , Poltarykhin Andrey L. , Zhuravlev Pavel V.
Published: September 2021

The article presents the results of a theoretical and empirical study of the leading trends and the latest trends in the development of modern agricultural cooperatives (with an illustration of many years of experience and grandiose achievements in the activities of the world famous multinational dairy cooperative “Arla Foods”), due to various changes in the external environment (market, institutional, political, technological) and determining, as a result, significant changes in the requirements for the quality of human capital. Important scientific conclusions (according to the topic) were obtained on the basis of studying the dynamics of the formation and development of the Arla Foods cooperative, generalizing materials regarding its organizational transformations and mainly relate to (1) the importance of professional management for the success of the cooperative, (2) new requirements for the quality of human resources in connection with technological innovations (digitalization, for example), (3) the role of human capital available in cooperatives (its quality) in overcoming various threats and risks.
The theoretical and practical value of the study lies, firstly, in the (scientifically grounded) concept of a modern agricultural cooperative presented in the work (using the example of Arla Foods as one of its most prominent representatives), and secondly, in the characteristics of the human capital of agricultural cooperatives, adequate to the essence of the evolutionary processes taking place with them.
СТРАТЕГИИ СОВЛАДАНИЯ СО СТРЕССОМ У СТУДЕНТОВ ВО ВРЕМЯ ПАНДЕМИИ COVID-19. МЕТОДОЛОГИЯ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЯ СОВЛАДАЮЩЕГО ПОВЕДЕНИЯ
Authors: Klimatckaia Liudmila G. , Dyachuk Anna A. , Bocharova Julia Ju. , Shpakou Andrei I.
Published: September 2021

Цель: представить обзор научной литературы по проблеме изучения совладающего поведения с ситуацией пандемии Covid-19, подходы и программу междисциплинарного исследования копинг-стратегий студентов во время срочного перехода на дистанционное обучение в условиях противоэпидемических мероприятий.
Результаты. Дана характеристика способов выявления продуктивных копинг-стратегий при совладании со стрессом и взаимосвязи их с выделением условий, оценкой ситуации, ресурсов, которые имеются у человека в ситуации, переживаемой как трудной. С точки зрения медико-гигиенических исследований при оценке копинг-поведения следует учитывать индивидуальные показатели физического, психического здоровья, образ жизни, гигиенические навыки и стандарты. При оценке психолого-педагогических факторов совладающего поведения необходимо обращать внимание на академическую успеваемость, особенности социально-психологического взаимодействия с однокурсниками и преподавателями, социально-экономический статус, гендерные и личностные особенности индивидуума.
Заключение. Междисциплинарный медико-психолого-педагогический подход к изучению совладающего поведения студентов в период пандемии Covid-19 обусловливает построение типологии копинг-поведения, позволяет выделить продуктивные и непродуктивные копинг-стратегии совладания со стрессовой ситуацией, определить и описать дополнительные факторы, влияющие на их выбор. Выработка рекомендаций по применению типологии копинг-стратегий, полученные на основе междисциплинарного научного подхода, позволит администрации университетов обоснованно подойти к разработке медико-гигиенических и психолого-педагогических профилактических мероприятий при проектировании образовательной среды в условиях пандемии.
ЦИФРОВАЯ ТРАНСФОРМАЦИЯ АГРОПРОМЫШЛЕННОГО КОМПЛЕКСА: АНАЛИЗ ПЕРСПЕКТИВ
Authors: Stelmashonok Elena V. , Stelmashonok Vitaliy L.
Published: September 2021

Состояние вопроса. Цифровые технологии приводят к глубокому изменению моделей функционирования экономических агентов, в том числе и в агропромышленном комплексе (АПК). Однако, в отличие от других отраслей экономики, для АПК пока не было предложено комплексной картины тех последствий, к которым приведет его цифровая трансформация. Существующие публикации посвящены отдельным технологиям и исследуют цифровую трансформацию АПК на уровне отдельных компаний. Отсутствие такой картины препятствует принятию взвешенных решений о целесообразности проведения цифровой трансформации и выбора ее направлений.
Материалы и методы исследования. В статье использовался метод анализа и синтеза, а также метод анализа источников. Для отбора источников для анализа был осуществлен поиск по ключевым словам в Национальной электронной библиотеке elibrary.ru.
Результаты. В предлагаемой статье показано, что цифровая трансформация АПК приведет к:
- изменению отраслевой структуры АПК из-за исчезновения традиционных отраслей и возникновения новых;
- изменению участия АПК в национальной и мировой экономике;
- внедрению новых организационных моделей функционирования предприятий АПК (платформ и экосистем);
- исчезновению остатков традиционного сельского уклада и изменению городского уклада.
Заключение. Нами обоснованы следующие основные положения:
 - цифровая трансформация ведет не только к технологическим, но и к организационным преобразованиям в АПК;
- результатом цифровой трансформации станет глубокое изменение модели организации АПК и его роли в национальной экономике;
- государству необходимы принимать меры по поддержке цифровой трансформации АПК и по адаптации АПК к новому цифровому укладу.
Awareness of young people from different countries about risk factors influences on cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Cyboran Katarzyna Aleksandra , Kuc Monika , Kalicka Maria , Korzec Tomasz , Kania Konrad
Published: September 2021

One of the main reasons of deaths in the entire world is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Because of this, 17.9 million people died in 2019, which is 32% of deaths worldwide. Among these deaths, 85% were due to heart attack and stroke. More than 75% of deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. Among the 17 million people under the age of 70 who died prematurely in 2019 due to non-contagious diseases, as many as 38% were caused by CVD. The most important risk factors for CVD include smoking, an unhealthy diet, obesity, inactivity, and alcohol consumption. These factors reflect the ongoing economic, social, and cultural changes. The development of this disease is also influenced by stress and genetic factors. Thanks to early diagnosis, it is possible to initiate treatment early and increase the patient's chance of survival. [1]