bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
celldeath: A tool for detection of cell death in transmitted light microscopy images by deep learning-based visual recognition
Authors: La Greca Alejandro Damián , Pérez Nelba , Castañeda Sheila , Milone Paula Melania , Scarafía María Agustina , Möbbs Alan Miqueas , Waisman Ariel , Moro Lucía Natalia , Sevlever Gustavo Emilio , Luzzani Carlos Daniel , Miriuka Santiago Gabriel
Published: June 2021

Cell death experiments are routinely done in many labs around the world, these experiments are the backbone of many assays for drug development. Cell death detection is usually performed in many ways, and requires time and reagents. However, cell death is preceded by slight morphological changes in cell shape and texture. In this paper, we trained a neural network to classify cells undergoing cell death. We found that the network was able to highly predict cell death after one hour of exposure to camptothecin. Moreover, this prediction largely outperforms human ability. Finally, we provide a simple python tool that can broadly be used to detect cell death.
Agricultural cooperatives participating in vegetable supply chain integration: A case study of a trinity cooperative in China
Authors: Wang Lu , Luo Jianli , Liu Yuxia
Published: June 2021

Supply chain integration plays an important role in the development of the vegetable industry in terms of vegetable quality, vegetable safety, and vegetable security in rural China. This paper explores how agricultural cooperatives integrate the vegetable supply chain by taking a trinity cooperative as an example in China. It explains the translation concatenation of supply chain integration for this cooperative by constructing actor networks in four development stages, including the seed stage, start-up stage, development stage, and mature stage. The findings show that supply chain integration in production cooperation, supply & sales cooperation, and credit cooperation is a useful trinity cooperative model of supply chain integration for investigating vegetable supply chain integration through internal integration and external integration. This paper suggests that cooperatives in the vegetable supply chain should facilitate close coordination among different shareholders and further improve the efficiency of supply chain integration. The government should provide training opportunities and funding to encourage cooperatives to participate in supply chain integration within the vegetable industry.
A new sensitive and fast assay for the detection of EGFR mutations in liquid biopsies
Authors: Jensen Steffen Grann , Epistolio Samantha , Madsen Cesilie Lind , Kyneb Majbritt Hauge , Riva Alice , Paganotti Alessia , Barizzi Jessica , Petersen Rasmus Koefoed , Børgesen Michael , Molinari Francesca , Boldorini Renzo , Lorenzen Jan , Sørensen Erik , Christensen Ulf Bech , Høgdall Estrid , Frattini Milo
Published: June 2021

Background

A major perspective for the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in the clinical setting of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is expected as predictive factor for resistance and response to EGFR TKI therapy and, especially, as a non-invasive alternative to tissue biopsy. However, ctDNA is both highly fragmented and mostly low concentrated in plasma and serum. On this basis, it is important to use a platform characterized by high sensitivity and linear performance in the low concentration range. This motivated us to evaluate the newly developed and commercially available SensiScreen® EGFR Liquid assay platform (PentaBase) with regard to sensitivity, linearity, repeatability and accuracy and finally to compare it to our already implemented methods. The validation was made in three independent European laboratories using two cohorts on a total of 68 unique liquid biopsies.

Results

Using artificial samples containing 1600 copies of WT DNA spiked with 50% - 0.1% of mutant copies across a seven—log dilution scale, we assessed the sensitivity, linearity, repeatability and accuracy for the p.T790M, p.L858R and exon 19 deletion assays of the SensiScreen® EGFR Liquid assay platform. The lowest value detectable ranged from 0.5% to 0.1% with R2≥0,97 indicating good linearity. High PCR efficiency was shown for all three assays. In 102 single PCRs each containing theoretical one copy of the mutant at initiating, assays showed repeatable positivity in 75.5% - 80.4% of reactions. At low ctDNA levels, as in plasma, the SensiScreen® EGFR Liquid assay platform showed better sensitivity than the Therascreen® EGFR platform (Qiagen) and equal performance to the ctEGFR Mutation Detection Kit (EntroGen) and the IOT® Oncomine cell-free nucleic acids assay (Thermo Fisher Scientific) with 100% concordance at the sequence level.

Conclusion

For profiling clinical plasma samples, characterized by low ctDNA abundance, the SensiScreen® EGFR Liquid assay is able to identify down to 1 copy of mutant alleles and with its high sensitivity, linearity and accuracy it may be a competitive platform of choice.
The effects of a fermented rapeseed meal or/and soybean meal additive on the blood lipid profile and immune parameters of piglets and on minerals in their blood and bone
Authors: Czech Anna , Grela Eugeniusz R. , Nowakowicz-Dębek Bożena , Wlazło Łukasz
Published: June 2021

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of the inclusion of dried fermented soybean and/or rapeseed meal in piglet feed on immune parameters, blood lipid parameters, and mineral content in the blood and metacarpal bones. The study was conducted on 150 28-day-old piglets divided into 5 groups. Piglets in the control group (C) received a standard diet with soybean meal. Animals in group FR (group receiving a diet with 8% FRSM) received a diet in which a portion of the soybean meal was replaced with 8% dried fermented rapeseed meal (FRSM). Animals in group FR/FS received a diet in which a portion of the soybean meal was replaced with 6% FRSM and 2% fermented dried soybean meal (FSBM). The piglets in group FS/FR received a diet with 6% FSBM and 2% FRSM. Group FS received a diet in which a portion of the soybean meal was replaced with an 8% share of FSBM. The inclusion of 8% or 6% fermented rapeseed meal (group FR or FR/FS) in the diet of piglets had a beneficial effect on their immune status, as evidenced by the increase in plasma levels of IgG and IgA and the decrease in IL-6 relative to the control group. It also significantly increased the concentrations of minerals, i.e. P, Ca and Zn, in the blood plasma and metacarpal bones of piglets and improved the availability of iron, a key bioelement involved in haemoglobin. The use of 8% or 6% fermented soybean meal in the diet (groups FS and FS/FR) of piglets had a positive effect on blood lipid parameters, reducing CHOL and LDL-cholesterol in the plasma. In conclusion, the fermentation process enables better utilization of rapeseed or soybean meal by pigs. Dried fermented rapeseed meal could partially replace protein components from GMO (genetically modified ogranism) crops (soybean meal) used in diets for pigs.
Knowledge and intentions regarding the Pap smear test among Saudi Arabian women
Authors: Alissa Nawal A.
Published: June 2021

Background

The knowledge of Pap smear and uptake of preventive behaviors to prevent cervical cancer are the most important contributors to the advanced stage of the disease. Knowledge is one of the most leading factors to predict the health behaviors and a helpful factor in performing screening procedures. This study aimed to investigate Saudi Arabian women knowledge of Pap testing in relation to their intention to undergo the test.

Methods

An online survey including demographic characteristics (3 questions), knowledge (13 questions), and intentions (3 questions) towards Pap smear was completed by 467 Saudi Arabian women. Data were analyzed through SPSS version 22, using descriptive statistics and correlation to measure the relationship between knowledge, demographic factors, and intention.

Results

The study found that average level of knowledge was 1.3 which is between high and moderate knowledge, and the average score for the intention was 2.88, to indicate that the intentions to uptake Pap smear among the participants were above the average. The study revealed a significant correlation between demographic factors and intention (p<0.01).

Conclusion

Findings from the current study can inform health care providers about Saudi Arabian women knowledge of Pap smear and the intention to uptake the test. Strategies to motivate women to undergo Pap screening should be introduced.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis–derived circulating cell-free DNA in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and persons with latent tuberculosis infection
Authors: Pan Sheng-Wei , Su Wei-Juin , Chan Yu-Jiun , Chuang Fan-Yi , Feng Jia-Yih , Chen Yuh-Min
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The timely diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is challenging. Although pathogen-derived circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) has been detected in humans, the significance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)-cfDNA detection in patients with PTB remains unclear.

Methods

This study enrolled patients with PTB and persons with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) as the study and control groups, respectively, from 2018 to 2020. We measured interferon-γ levels and calculated blood monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio (MLR). We conducted plasma cfDNA extraction, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and droplet digital PCR targeting the IS6110 gene of MTB. We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of using MTB-cfDNA to identify PTB and analyzed the factors associated with PTB diagnosis and MTB-cfDNA positivity.

Results

We enrolled 24 patients with PTB and 57 LTBI controls. The sensitivity of using MTB-cfDNA to identify PTB was 54.2%(13/24) in total and 46.2%(6/13) in smear-negative cases. Two LTBI controls (3.5%) tested positive for MTB-cfDNA, indicating a specificity of 96.5%(55/57). By using MTB-cfDNA positivity and an MLR ≥0.42 to identify PTB, sensitivity increased to 79.2%(19/24). Among patients with PTB, MTB-specific interferon-γ levels were higher in MTB-cfDNA positive participants than in those who tested negative (7.0 ±2.7 vs 2.7±3.0 IU/mL, p<0.001). MTB-cfDNA levels declined after 2 months of anti-tuberculosis therapy (p<0.001).

Conclusion

The sensitivity of using MTB-cfDNA to identify PTB in participants was 54.2%, which increased to 79.2% after incorporating an MLR ≥0.42 into the analysis. MTB-cfDNA positivity was associated with MTB-specific immune response, and MTB-cfDNA levels declined after treatment. The clinical value of MTB-cfDNA in PTB management necessitates further investigation.
El debilitamiento de la fuerza sindical en la sociedad 4.0
Authors: Martín Vales Priscila
Published: June 2021

El uso de las TICs, la descentralización productiva y la globalización, entre otros factores, han conllevado al surgimiento de nuevas formas económicas y, por ende, de relaciones laborales. Llevando aparejado una disminución de efectividad de la acción colectiva en las empresas red y en mayor medida, en aquellas en las que se vislumbran tintes de transnacionalidad. Al igual que ha evolucionado las relaciones laborales, ha de evolucionar la normativa aplicable y, tanto los requisitos, como las formas de realizar la acción colectiva. En virtud de lo cual, es necesaria una reforma o relectura de los Títulos II y III ET, con la finalidad de paliar las limitaciones o deficiencias de aplicación de la acción colectiva en las empresas red, a través de cualquiera de sus formas; subcontratación, unión temporal de empresas, empresas multiservicios, a través de plataformas digitales, entre otras.
Los orígenes de lo humano. El método genético de Giambattista Vico
Authors: Brigante Rovida Anna
Published: June 2021

Este artículo se propone explicar el método genético de Vico como una dialéctica entre una filología que amplía su espectro en razón de una novedosa concepción de la relación entre oralidad y escritura, y una filosofía que se concibe como una metafísica de la mente. La articulación entre estas disciplinas le permite al autor acceder a los orígenes de lo humano y, al mismo tiempo, llevar a cabo una crítica a la racionalidad moderna que ha hecho patente su incapacidad de interpretar la mentalidad de los primeros pobladores. La exigencia de Vico, entonces, es la de afinar y ajustar el modo de comprensión de los remotos orígenes y dar cuenta de la complejidad de lo humano y su dimensión histórica sin renunciar a configurar una ciencia.
La estética de «sensus» y «ratio» en la filosofía de Descartes
Authors: Hernández Mergal Luis
Published: June 2021

En este trabajo se investigan los conceptos de sensus (sensación, sentimiento) y ratio (razón, proporción) en la filosofía de Descartes, con el propósito de indagar sobre la posibilidad de una unión de ambos conceptos en la obra de arte. El análisis comienza con el Compendio de música, demostrando que algunos conceptos claves del método cartesiano son tanto epistemológicos como estéticos. El problema central sobre la unión de sensus y ratio depende de la respuesta a la interrogante sobre la relación entre res cogitans y res extensa, que se discute en torno al tratado de las Pasiones del alma. Nuestra investigación destaca la contribución de Descartes al posterior desarrollo de la estética del siglo XVIII.
Współczesne uwarunkowania prawne rynku nieruchomości rolnych – główne płaszczyzny regulacyjne
Authors: Czechowski Paweł , Marciniuk Konrad
Published: June 2021

Celem rozważań jest analiza głównych obszarów współczesnej regulacji prawnej obrotu nieruchomościami rolnymi, wpływającej zarówno na sytuację prawną właściciela nieruchomości rolnej, jak i na współczesny kształt rynku rolnego.  W konkluzji autorzy stwierdzają między innymi, że władcza ingerencja państwa zwłaszcza w sferze ingerencji publicznoprawnej narusza konstytucyjne granice ochrony własności poprzez istotne uszczuplenie prawa swobody działania właściciela. Występujące ograniczenia regulacyjne wyraźnie naruszają równowagę w regulacji własności rolniczej pojmowanej jako kompleks praw i obowiązków . Tworzący się normatywny prymat i dominacja administracyjnoprawnych instrumentów interwencji w rynek nieruchomości rolnych ogranicza występowanie instrumentów cywilnoprawnych na rzecz instrumentów administracyjnoprawnych.
Zasiłek opiekuńczy dla rolników i domowników ubezpieczonych w Kasie Rolniczego Ubezpieczenia Społecznego
Authors: Puślecki Damian
Published: June 2021

Celem niniejszych rozważań jest odpowiedź na pytanie na ile przejęta z powszechnego ubezpieczenia społecznego, wyjątkowa konstrukcja prawa do zasiłku opiekuńczego zapewnia ochronę podmiotom prowadzącym działalność rolniczą. W konkluzji autor stwierdza, że przyznanie rolnikom prawa do zasiłku opiekuńczego było bezprecedensowym zabiegiem ustawodawcy, uargumentowanym potrzebą wsparcia działalności rolniczej w dobie COVID-19. Instytucja prawa do „covidowego rolniczego zasiłku opiekuńczego” uregulowana została jednak w sposób fragmentaryczny, ma charakter jedynie przejściowy i ustanowiona została poza systemem rolniczego ubezpieczenia społecznego. Ze względu na niewielką kwotę przyznanego świadczenia nie może ono realizować odpowiednio funkcji kompensacyjno-wspomagająco-zachęcającej.
Prawne pojęcie osobistego prowadzenia gospodarstwa domowego
Authors: Łobos-Kotowska Dorota
Published: June 2021

Problematyka podjęta w artykule dotyczy pojęcia osobistego prowadzenia gospodarstwa rolnego. Zostało ono użyte na potrzeby przewidzianych w ustawie o kształtowaniu ustroju rolnego ograniczeń w obrocie nieruchomościami rolnymi. Przesłanka osobistego prowadzenia gospodarstwa rolnego jest niezwykle restrykcyjna i budzi wiele wątpliwości, także konstytucyjnych, które zostały podniesione przez doktrynę i judykaturę. Ponadto wydaje się nieproporcjonalną ingerencją w sposób wykonywania własności rolniczej w działalność gospodarczą, także rolniczą działalność gospodarczą. Wszelkie ograniczenia wolności gospodarczej i prawa własności powinny być rozpatrywane przez pryzmat zasady proporcjonalności. Dla zapewnienia realizacji celów ustawy o kształtowaniu ustroju rolnego, tj. właściwego zagospodarowania ziemi rolnej, wystarczające wydaje się wprowadzenie obowiązku zachowania rolnego charakteru nieruchomości, przy realizacji zasady, że są to obszary utrzymywane naturalnie w stanie nadającym się do wypasu lub uprawy, przy zachowaniu norm minimalnych. Takie podejście odpowiada modelowi rolnictwa przyjętemu we Wspólnej Polityce Rolnej.
Prawna problematyka sprzedaży, użytkowania wieczystego oraz dzierżawy nieruchomości rolnych z zasobu gminnego
Authors: Suchoń Aneta
Published: June 2021

Celem rozważań jest rozstrzygnięcie wybranych problemów prawnych związanych ze sprzedażą, użytkowaniem wieczystym i dzierżawą nieruchomości rolnych z zasobu gminnego. Rozważania koncentrują się na przetargach organizowanych przez gminy na sprzedaż oraz dzierżawę nieruchomości rolnych, prawie pierwokupu gminy, przekształcaniu prawa użytkowania wieczystego nieruchomości rolnych we własność, planach zagospodarowania przestrzennego uchwalanych przez gminy. W konkluzji stwierdzono, że ustawa o gospodarce nieruchomościami nie przewiduje odrębnych regulacji uwzględniających specyfikę gruntów rolnych. Jeśli chodzi o wnioski de lege ferenda, nawiązano do rozwiązań zawartych w ustawie o gospodarowaniu nieruchomościami rolnymi Skarbu Państwa w zakresie przetargów organizowanych na sprzedaż gruntów oraz prawa pierwszeństwa nabycia nieruchomości rolnych bez przetargu przez dzierżawców. Podkreślono też, że aspekt rolny powinien być szerzej uwzględniony w procesie uchwalania i zmian planu zagospodarowania przestrzennego.
Bezpieczeństwo żywnościowe a ograniczenia w nabywaniu nieruchomości rolnych w kontekście strategii „Od pola do stołu”
Authors: Wojciechowski Paweł
Published: June 2021

Celem rozważań jest przedstawienie relacji między ograniczeniami w obrocie nieruchomościami rolnymi wprowadzonymi ustawą o kształtowaniu ustroju rolnego, bezpieczeństwem żywnościowym oraz zrównoważonymi systemami żywnościowymi, a także weryfikacja, na ile polska regulacja obrotu nieruchomościami może być postrzegana jako instrument zapewnienia bezpieczeństwa żywnościowego oraz czy przyjęte w niej rozwiązania prawne wpisują się w strategię „Od pola do stołu”. W artykule przedstawiono główne cele i założenia tej strategii z uwzględnieniem Europejskiego Zielonego Ładu, wyjaśniono pojęcie bezpieczeństwa żywnościowego oraz omówiono podstawowe instrumenty ograniczenia obrotu nieruchomościami rolnymi wprowadzone ustawą o kształtowaniu ustroju rolnego. W świetle tych ustaleń dokonano oceny wprowadzonych rozwiązań ograniczających obrót nieruchomościami w kontekście bezpieczeństwa żywnościowego oraz strategii „Od pola do stołu”. Stwierdzono, że zarówno zasada nabywania nieruchomości rolnych przez rolników indywidualnych, jak i wymóg prowadzenia gospodarstwa rolnego na nabywanej nieruchomości rolnej przyczyniają się do zapewnienia bezpieczeństwa żywnościowego i mają jedynie pośredni wpływ na realizację strategii „Od pola do stołu”.
Editorial
Authors: Pawlak Mirosław
Published: June 2021

The second 2021 issue of Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching includes four empirical papers and three book reviews.
Biological variation of cardiac myosin-binding protein C in healthy individuals
Authors: Alaour Bashir , Omland Torbjørn , Torsvik Janniche , Kaier Thomas E. , Sylte Marit S. , Strand Heidi , Quraishi Jasmine , McGrath Sam , Williams Luke , Meex Steven , Redwood Simon , Marber Michael , Aakre Kristin M.
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Cardiac myosin-binding protein C (cMyC) is a novel biomarker of myocardial injury, with a promising role in the triage and risk stratification of patients presenting with acute cardiac disease. In this study, we assess the weekly biological variation of cMyC, to examine its potential in monitoring chronic myocardial injury, and to suggest analytical quality specification for routine use of the test in clinical practice.

Methods

Thirty healthy volunteers were included. Non-fasting samples were obtained once a week for ten consecutive weeks. Samples were tested in duplicate on the Erenna® platform by EMD Millipore Corporation. Outlying measurements and subjects were identified and excluded systematically, and homogeneity of analytical and within-subject variances was achieved before calculating the biological variability (CVI and CVG), reference change values (RCV) and index of individuality (II).

Results

Mean age was 38 (range, 21–64) years, and 16 participants were women (53%). The biological variation, RCV and II with 95% confidence interval (CI) were: CVA (%) 19.5 (17.8–21.6), CVI (%) 17.8 (14.8–21.0), CVG (%) 66.9 (50.4–109.9), RCV (%) 106.7 (96.6–120.1)/−51.6 (−54.6 to −49.1) and II 0.42 (0.29–0.56). There was a trend for women to have lower CVG. The calculated RCVs were comparable between genders.

Conclusions

cMyC exhibits acceptable RCV and low II suggesting that it could be suitable for disease monitoring, risk stratification and prognostication if measured serially. Analytical quality specifications based on biological variation are similar to those for cardiac troponin and should be achievable at clinically relevant concentrations.
Entrepreneurship and Firm Strategy: Integrating Resources, Capabilities, and Judgment through an Austrian Framework
Authors: Möller Ulrich , McCaffrey Matthew
Published: June 2021

Despite numerous calls for integrating entrepreneurship research and firm theory, there has been relatively little work done in this direction. Likewise, despite many discussions, controversy continues to surround core theoretical frameworks in strategic management such as the resource-based view and capabilities theory. This paper uses insights from early research in Austrian economics to resolve both issues. We focus on Viktor Mataja, whose work provides an original, integrated framework for understanding the relationship between entrepreneurs and firms using the judgment-based approach to entrepreneurship, strategic use of resources in the firm, and dynamic capabilities. We show how this view answers various criticisms that have been raised against the resource- and capabilities-based views. This lays a foundation for a more thoroughgoing integration of research in entrepreneurship and strategic management.
The state of adolescent medicine as a specific field: an international exploratory survey
Authors: Fonseca Helena , Michaud Pierre-André
Published: June 2021

Objectives

The emergence of adolescent medicine (AM) as a specific area of training and health care delivery is progressing at various pace around the world. The objective of this exploratory survey was to inquire about the existence of official bodies and institutions offering recognition of the discipline as a specific field and on the status of related training initiatives.

Methods

A questionnaire was spread among a convenience sample of 21 colleagues involved in adolescent health care around the world, and answers were collected and analysed manually.

Results

All 21 colleagues from the North and South American, African, Asian and European regions have responded. Only seven countries report the existence of adolescent inpatient wards in some hospitals, while 16 have specialized outpatient clinics; in only eight countries is formal mandatory training in AM required for paediatricians; in seven others, such a stay is available but optional. Six countries have implemented a systematic assessment tackling AM in the certification process of paediatricians and just four recognize AM as a sub-specialty. Only two countries mention compulsory training in AM for family doctors. Fourteen countries report on the existence of an AM association.

Conclusions

Despite an encouraging number of initiatives testifying the growing place of AM in the practice of medicine, our data bring a worrisome portray of the status of AM in the involved countries and call for the development of appropriate health care and training centres.
Effect of luteolin on the gene level expression of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain of NLRP3 inflammasome and NF-κB in rats subjected to experimental pancreatitis – influence of HSP70
Authors: Rajapriya Sadanandan , Geetha Arumugam
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Nod-like receptor pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) is one of the well characterized inflammasome that controls the maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and thereby the inflammation in pancreas which could be a promising target for anti-inflammatory drugs. The present study is aimed to explore whether luteolin can target the NLRP3 inflammasome and modulate its activity through the signaling protein, HSP70 in the ethanol-cerulein model of experimental pancreatitis.

Methods

Male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Groups 1 and 2 rats received normal diet. Groups 3 and 4 rats received isocalorically adjusted diet containing ethanol for 5 weeks and cerulein (20 μg/kg body weight i.p., thrice weekly for the last 3 weeks of the experimental period). Additionally, group 2 and 4 rats received 2 mg/kg body weight of luteolin orally from third week.

Results

Luteolin co-administration decreased the serum levels of HSP70, oxidative stress markers, myeloperoxidase, GSH/GSSG and GST with concomitant downregulation in the mRNA expression of HSP70, caspase-1, ASC-NLRP3 and NF-κB. Spearman’s rank correlation test showed that serum HSP70 has positive correlation with the expression of ASC-NLRP3, caspase-1, NF-κB and 4-hydroxynonenal and negative correlation with GSH:GSSG ratio.

Conclusions

The modulating effect of luteolin on the expression of HSP70, NF-κB and thereby on ASC-NLRP3 complex may be claimed for its pancreato-protective activity.
A non-inferiority randomized controlled clinical trial comparing Unani formulations and PUVAsol in non-segmental vitiligo
Authors: Husain Nazim , Uddin Qamar , Kazmi Munawwar Husain , Khalid Mohd
Published: June 2021

Objectives

Greco-Arab medicine is an ancient system of medicine with greater treasure on therapeutics of vitiligo. The trial Unani formulations have not been scientifically explored for their safety and efficacy, but have been repeatedly prescribed by the great Unani physicians in the management ofBaraṣ(vitiligo). Hence, these interventions were selected for the trial.

Methods

In this randomized, controlled, open-label clinical trial, 82 participants with non-segmental vitiligo aged 18–40 years were block randomized to either receive Unani interventions or control for 16 weeks. Out of 82 participants, 42 were randomized to the Unani group and 40 were randomized to the control group. The primary outcome measure was change in vitiligo area scoring index (VASI), which was assessed on weeks 4, 8, 12 and 16. The secondary outcome measures included the patient’s global assessment on VAS and investigator’s global assessment based on photographic evaluation at baseline and after the treatment. Safety parameters included hemogram, LFTs, RFTs, CXR, ECG, urine, and stool examinations, which were evaluated at baseline and after the treatment.

Results

The per-protocol analysis was done on 30 participants in each group and the response in Unani group was not inferior to those receiving control group. The mean ± SD of vitiligo area scoring index (VASI) decreased from 4.09 ± 2.87 and 5.50 ± 5.73 at baseline to 3.13 ± 2.20 and 4.29 ± 4.95 at the end of the trial in both the Unani and control groups respectively.

Conclusions

The study inferred that both the interventions are equally effective and well-tolerated in patients with non-segmental vitiligo.
Metabolic syndrome and cardiorespiratory fitness in children and adolescents: the role of obesity as a mediator
Authors: González-Gálvez Noelia , Ribeiro Jose , Mota Jorge
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To analyse the prevalence and association between metabolic syndrome (MetS), clustered cardiometabolic risk (CCMR), obesity (body mass index [BMI], fat mass [FM] and waist circumference [WC]), and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF); and to assess whether obesity (BMI, FM, and WC) acts as a mediator between CRF and MetS or CCMR.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included a subsample of the AFINA-te Study (n = 209; 11.51 ± 0.72 years old). BMI, FM, and WC were assessed. The Course-Navette test was used to assess CRF. MetS was calculated following the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) definitions, and assessed using WC, triglycerides (TGs), high density lipoprotein (HD), fasting glucose (FG), and systolic and diastolic blood pressures (SBP/DBP). CCMR was calculated based on the sex and age-specific z score.

Results

The prevalence of overweightness, obesity, MetS, and CCMR were 17.22, 1.44, 5.74, and 18.36%, respectively. After including BMI, FM, or WC into the model, the association between CRF and MetS was no longer significant, and the association between CRF and CCMR was only significant when it was mediated by BMI (β = −0.006; p = 0.026). The rest of the analysis of the mediation did not show a direct effect, although a significant indirect effect with a significant value for the Sobel test was observed (all p < 0.001).

Conclusions

BMI, FM, and WC act as full mediators in the association between CRF and MetS; FM and WC act as full mediators in the association between CRF and CCMR; and BMI acts as a partial mediator. The use of FM or WC as obesity variables is recommended.
Can Good Intentions Bring Negative Consequences? The Perceived Positive and the Side Effects of the Law on Alcohol Control
Authors: Morkunas Mangirdas
Published: June 2021

The present study addresses the perceived effects of the implementation of the Law on Alcohol Control passed by the Lithuanian Parliament. The current study provides initial scientific insights into the rationale and the outcomes of that piece of legislation. The results of the research were analyzed from both economic and social perspectives. The study revealed that although the implementation of the Law on Alcohol Control did induce significant positive changes in society’s perception towards consumption of alcohol, it also provoked some side effects in economic and social perspectives.
Knee alterations in rheumatoid arthritis: Comparison of US and MRI
Authors: Xiao Lu , Huang Yanyan , Zhan Feng
Published: June 2021

Objective

This study was designed to compare the diagnostic efficacy of ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in detecting changes in the knee of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and discover the possible association between the serological index and bone erosion detected by US.

Patients and methods

In this retrospective study, the US images and MRI findings of the knee in patients with RA from December 2017 to January 2020 were evaluated. Diagnostic outcomes were compared. The rheumatoid factor, C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (ACPA) levels of the patients were recorded. The relation between laboratory index and US findings was analyzed by multivariable logistic regression.

Results

US showed remarkable accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in diagnosing synovitis, bone erosion, and soft tissue swelling. In terms of reliability, the agreement between US and MRI was moderate to almost perfect. Meanwhile, a positive association between ACPA level and bone erosion was observed in patients with RA.

Conclusions

US may have a role as the initial imaging modality in patients with RA. Patients with higher ACPA levels may need more active treatment because they are more likely to have bone erosion detected by US.
The crystal structre of 3-(1-ethenyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium-3-yl)propane-1-sulfonate, C8H12N2O3S
Authors: Zhu Yanfang , Xu Guiyang , Song Wenqi , Miao Zongcheng
Published: June 2021

C8H12N2O3S, monolinic, P21/n (no. 14), a = 6.0324(5) Å, b = 7.1692(6) Å, c = 21.6655(17) Å, β = 97.022(3)°, V = 929.95(13) Å3, Z = 4, R

gt
(F) = 0.0409, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.1201, T = 193 K.
An implicit scheme for simulation of free surface non-Newtonian fluid flows on dynamically adapted grids
Authors: Nikitin Kirill , Vassilevski Yuri , Yanbarisov Ruslan
Published: June 2021

This work presents a new approach to modelling of free surface non-Newtonian (viscoplastic or viscoelastic) fluid flows on dynamically adapted octree grids. The numerical model is based on the implicit formulation and the staggered location of governing variables. We verify our model by comparing simulations with experimental and numerical results known from the literature.
VI. Paolo Comitoli SJ on Contracts
Authors: Alexandrowicz Piotr
Published: June 2021

Contract law in the early modern period has always been the subject of intensive research. The present article is intended as a contribution to this. It presents the contract doctrine of an Italian Jesuit, Paolo Comitoli. He was a moral theologian and author of the “Doctrina de contractu”. The paper begins with a biographical introduction and an overview of Comitoli’s writings. News about Comitoli’s life, however, is sparse and widely dispersed. The following section focuses on Comitoli’s concept of and his definition of contract. A brief explanation of Comitoli’s concept of contract attributes follows. Comitoli saw in these attributes the identity-forming characteristics of all contracts and used these elements to place the traditional problems of contract theory in a new framework.
IT-Sicherheit in der vernetzten Produktion
Authors: Kiesel Raphael , Kies Alexander , Kreppein Alexander , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: June 2021

Die Potenziale der Industrie 4.0 für produzierende Unternehmen sind enorm, drohen aufgrund unzureichender IT-Sicherheitsmaßnahmen jedoch ungenutzt zu bleiben. Am Fraunhofer IPT wurde daher der „Production Security Readiness Check“ (PSRC) entwickelt, der Unternehmen eine Selbsteinschätzung bzgl. des IT-Sicherheit-Reifegrads ermöglicht. Der PSRC wird in diesem Beitrag vorgestellt und darüber hinaus das Ergebnis einer Studie von 28 Unternehmen, die den Check durchgeführt haben, beleuchtet.
MES-System mit Fertigungskommunikation
Authors: Winter Florian
Published: June 2021

In einem vom Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (BMWi) geförderten Forschungsprojekt entwickeln die ATS Elektronik GmbH, das Institut für Fertigungstechnik und Werkzeugmaschinen (IFW) der Leibniz-Universität Hannover und die FAUSER AG Lokalisierungs- und Kommunikationsfunktionen für das Manufacturing Execution System der Zukunft. Das Projekt soll zum Jahresende 2021 abgeschlossen sein.
Algorithmische Produktion: Framework für den Shopfloor der Zukunft
Authors: Gerber Stefan , Ahmad Daban
Published: June 2021

In diesem Fachaufsatz wird das Prinzip der algorithmischen Produktion als eine Lösung vorgestellt, um den Anforderungen moderner Produktionseinrichtungen gerecht zu werden und die Fertigung hochgradig individualisierbarer Produkte zu realisieren. Zur Implementierung der algorithmischen Produktion werden drei verschiedene Architekturszenarien vorgeschlagen. Die Implementierung des Ansatzes wird abschließend an einem Referenzbeispiel für die Elektromotorenherstellung aufgezeigt.
Expertengestützte Data-Science-Projekte für die Produktion
Authors: Morlock Friedrich , Boßlau Mario
Published: June 2021

Technische Entwicklungen wie Datensammler und Analysewerkzeuge ermöglichen neue Optimierungspotenziale in der Produktion. Ein gutes Beispiel dafür ist das Themenfeld Data Science. Big-Data-Analysen oder Data-Science-Projekte können aus großen Datenmengen Hinweise und Optimierungspotenziale in der Produktion aufdecken. Für die Datenanalyse hat sich in Wissenschaft und Praxis der CRISP-DM-Ansatz durchgesetzt. Dieses Vorgehensmodell bietet eine gute Unterstützung für Data-Science-Projekte mit nützlichen Methoden und Werkzeugen zur Datenanalyse. In der Praxis ist jedoch oft zu beobachten, dass diese Projekte häufig von Datenexperten durchgeführt werden und die Verknüpfung von langjährigem Prozesswissen fehlt. In diesem Beitrag wird als Lösung eine Kombination von Prozessoptimierungsmethoden aus dem Lean-Management- und Six-Sigma-Werkzeugkasten sowie Projektmanagement-Methoden für jede Phase des CRISP-DM-Ansatzes vorgestellt.
Der Einkauf zwischen Produktion und Beschaffungsmarkt
Authors: Koch Volker
Published: June 2021

Personen im Einkauf, welche die Einkaufsaufgabe in Organisationen wahrnehmen, gehören sowohl in öffentlichen als auch privaten Unternehmen zu den wichtigsten Funktionen. Der Wertschöpfungsanteil wird in hohem Maße in Einkaufabteilungen generiert. Dieser Beitrag soll aufzeigen, welche Möglichkeiten der Motivationserfassung für die handelnden Personen im Einkauf wahrgenommen werden können. Weiters werden in diesem Beitrag ein Konzept zur Messung der Motivation angewendet und die im Einkauf handelnden Personen analysiert.
Effect of Active Recovery Protocols on the Management of Symptoms Related to Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fares Rony , Vicente-Rodríguez Germán , Olmedillas Hugo
Published: June 2021

Active recovery offers an efficient method to relieve delayed onset muscle soreness and recover from exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). The main aim of this systematic review is to identify and compare different active recovery protocols after EIMD. Six databases were searched, and 17 eligible studies were selected. Results showed alleviation of soreness, prevention of muscle strength loss, improvement in flexibility, and a decrease in inflammation after one or more recovery protocols such as isolated muscle contractions, aqua exercise, yoga, and combined jogging and running. A better strategy should focus on prevention of symptoms after EIMD through a precise training periodization and adjustment of load used in exercises.
Use of Physical Fitness Assessments in Tactical Populations
Authors: Orr Robin M. , Lockie Robert , Milligan Gemma , Lim Cheryl , Dawes Jay
Published: June 2021

Physical fitness assessments for tactical occupations (e.g., military, law enforcement, and emergency services) can include predictive tests of anaerobic power, cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, muscular power, strength, agility, and/or simulated occupational tasks. Not only can these tests be used to assess the ability of someone to undertake the job role but they can be used to determine injury risk, training failure, and/or general health. This review discusses different uses for physical fitness assessments and considerations for their use in tactical populations.
Similarities and Differences of CT Features between COVID-19 Pneumonia and Heart Failure
Authors: Zhu Zhaowei , Tang Jianjun , Chai Xiangping , Fang Zhenfei , Hu Qiming , Hu Xinqun , Xu Danyan , He Jia , Tang Liang , Tai Shi , Wu Yuzhi , Zhou Shenghua
Published: June 2021

Aims: During the COVID-19 epidemic, chest computed tomography (CT) has been highly recommended for screening of patients with suspected COVID-19 because of an unclear contact history, overlapping clinical features, and an overwhelmed health system. However, there has not been a full comparison of CT for diagnosis of heart failure or COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods: Patients with heart failure (n=23) or COVID-19 pneumonia (n=23) and one patient with both diseases were retrospectively enrolled. Clinical information and chest CT images were obtained and analyzed.

Results: There was no difference in ground-glass opacity, consolidation, crazy paving pattern, the lobes affected, and septal thickening between heart failure and COVID-19 pneumonia. However, a less rounded morphology (4% vs. 70%, P=0.00092), more peribronchovascular thickening (70% vs. 35%, P=0.018) and fissural thickening (43% vs. 4%, P=0.002), and less peripheral distribution (30% vs. 87%, P=0.00085) were found in the heart failure group than in the COVID-19 group. Importantly, there were also more patients with upper pulmonary vein enlargement (61% vs. 4%, P=0.00087), subpleural effusion (50% vs. 0%, P=0.00058), and cardiac enlargement (61% vs. 4%, P=0.00075) in the heart failure group than in the COVID-19 group. Besides, more fibrous lesions were found in the COVID-19 group, although there was no statistical difference (22% vs. 4%, P=0.080).

Conclusions: Although there is some overlap of CT features between heart failure and COVID-19, CT is still a useful tool for differentiating COVID-19 pneumonia.
Electrochemical Oxidation of 2,5-Dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole on Carbon Electrodes Modified with Ru(III) Schiff Base Complex
Authors: Pazalja Mirha
Published: June 2021

The thiol compound 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole is a potential cathode material. The redox reactions of the mentioned thiol compound are slow at room temperature but can be enhanced using electron transfer mediators. The electrochemical oxidation of 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole on the surface of carbon electrodes modified with Ruthenium(III) Schiff base complex was studied by voltammetric methods and amperometric flow injection analysis. The electrocatalytic properties of Ruthenium(III) Schiff base complex on glassy carbon and screen printed carbon electrodes are enhanced by the addition of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and Nafion. Voltammetric studies showed that anodic oxidation of DMcT on a modified glassy carbon electrode occurs at a potential of +0.28 V vs. Ag/AgCl in Britton-Robinson buffer (pH 6.50). Flow injection amperometric measurements were performed at +0.20 V vs. Ag/AgCl in Britton-Robinson buffer solutions pH 6.50 at a 0.40 cm3 min–1 flow rate. The results of amperometric measurements for modified screen printed and glassy carbon electrodes showed that the screen printed electrode had a lower value of detection limit (0.38 mg dm–3) and quantification (1.28 mg dm–3), and a linear dynamic range from 1 to 500 mg dm–3 of 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole. Modified glassy carbon electrode provided a linear dynamic range up to 750 mg dm–3 of 2,5-dimercapto-1,3,4-thiadiazole with a detection limit of 3.90 mg dm–3 and quantification of 13.20 mg dm–3.
Systemic pseudohypoaldosteronism-1 with episodic dyslipidemia in a Sudanese child
Authors: Abdalla Asmahan , Alhassan Mohammed Abdulrahman , Tawfeeg Reem , Sanad Ayman , Tawamie Hasan , Abdullah Mohamed
Published: June 2021

Systemic pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1) is a rare genetic syndrome of tissue unresponsiveness to aldosterone caused by mutations affecting the epithelial Na channel (ENaC). The classical presentation is life-threatening neonatal/infantile salt-losing crises that mimic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Consistently, extra-renal manifestations, including respiratory symptoms that resemble cystic fibrosis, are well reported. Clinical diagnosis is made by the presence of hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, respiratory symptoms, evidence of high renal and extra-renal salt loss in addition to high plasma renin and aldosterone levels. We herein report a novel manifestation of PHA1: episodic dyslipidemia in a 7-month-old Sudanese boy that occurred during the salt-losing crises. Whole exome sequencing of the patient revealed one homozygous missense variant c.1636G>A p.(Asp546Asn) in the SCNN1B gene, confirming our clinical and laboratory findings that were compatible with PHA1. This report aims to highlight the possible explanation of dyslipidemia in PHA1 and its expected consequences in the long term.

Learning points

A child presenting with features that mimic salt-losing congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) crises that do not respond to glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid therapy should alert the pediatricians to the possibility of end-organ resistance to aldosterone.

Pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1 (PHA1) can be diagnosed even in the absence of advanced laboratory investigations.

To our knowledge, this is the first case of systemic PHA1 to have a documented episodic dyslipidemia (primarily as marked hypertriglyceridemia).
Emoji Your Story: The Advertising Effectiveness of Emoji-Based Narratives
Authors: Haltmayer Vanessa , Gierl Heribert
Published: June 2021

Emojis are often used as single symbols to express emotions. Moreover, they serve as paralanguage in mass media and digital communication. Emojis are also used to tell narratives in advertising. Thus far, the latter usage of emojis has not been investigated. In two studies, we investigated the effectiveness of emoji-based narratives compared with textual narratives. Based on the data obtained from a thought-listing task, we found that consumers focus on solving the emoji puzzle when emojis are presented, whereas textual narratives are seldom replicated in such detail and induce additional thoughts about product features. We found the following five mediating effects: emoji-based narratives influence brand attitudes and the propensity to follow recommendations (provided in social-marketing campaigns) through 1. higher levels of narrative transportation, 2. higher perceptions of ad originality, 3. lower message comprehensibility, 4. stronger curiosity, and 5. lower perceptions of brand/organization trustworthiness. In total, emoji puzzles proved to be advantageous compared with textual narratives, with one exception: if the ad promoted advice that had no immediate and direct relevance for to the consumers’ lives (e.g., avoiding the use of animal-tested cosmetics and contributing to the preservation of the Amazon rainforest), the participants showed a low propensity to solve the emoji puzzle.
Management der Kostenstruktur in einer "Industrie 4.0"
Authors: Obermaier Robert
Published: June 2021

Digitalisierungsinvestitionen machen Kostenstrukturen tendenziell starrer. Dieses Fixkostenrisiko kann zu einem Hemmnis für eine erfolgreiche digitale Transformation werden. Der Beitrag beleuchtet Strategien zur Flexibilisierung von Kostenstrukturen und zeigt Gestaltungsoptionen auf, wie das Hemmnis starrer werdender Kostenstrukturen durch plattformbasierte Geschäftsmodellansätze wie z. B. Pay-per-Use oder Shared Production im Rahmen der digitalen Transformationen überwunden werden kann.
Management, Controlling und Controller - Jede Zeit braucht ihre Antworten
Authors: Reichmann Thomas , Hornung und Karlheinz
Published: June 2021

Am Beispiel des ungewöhnlich erfolgreichen Managers Karl-Josef (Kajo) Neukirchen († 26.12.2020) soll diskutiert werden, wie sich die Abgrenzung von Management, Controlling und Controller im Laufe der letzten Jahre aufgrund der zunehmenden Komplexität von Management und Controlling geändert hat.
Strategische Archetypen der Digitalisierung im Controlling
Authors: Lachmann Maik , Holtkemper Oliver
Published: June 2021

Die vorliegende Studie untersucht den Einfluss der Unternehmensstrategie auf die digitale Transformation im Controlling anhand von Fallstudien in fünf Großunternehmen. Es werden zwei strategische Archetypen abgeleitet, die sich sowohl in inhaltlichen Schwerpunkten als auch dem Prozess der digitalen Transformation erheblich unterscheiden.
Design-Prinzipien im finanziellen Reporting nutzen
Authors: Kocholl Tobias , Weiser Michael , Möller Klaus
Published: June 2021

Die Berichtsgestaltung (Report Design) ist ein zentrales Kriterium für die effektive und effiziente Informationsaufnahme aus finanziellen Berichten. Design-Prinzipien für die Berichtsgestaltung sind in der Wissenschaft bereits erforscht und etabliert. Dennoch stellt sich für die Praxis die Frage, ob sich die Umgestaltung von bestehenden Berichten lohnt. Dieser Beitrag zeigt den Mehrwert – gemessen als subjektive Benutzerfreundlichkeit – durch die konsequente Anwendung von wissenschaftlichen Design-Prinzipien im Kontext finanzieller Berichte. Anhand einer Fallstudie werden ein Prozess zur Evaluation von Report Re-Designs aufgezeigt und Handlungsempfehlungen für das Berichtswesen abgeleitet.