bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis on the Temporal and Spatial Characteristics of the Shallow Soil Temperature of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Yujie , Zhang Cunjie , Li Zhenchao , Yang Liwei , Jin Xiao , Gao Xiaoqing
Published: September 2021

Shallow soil refers to the soil layer within 50 cm underground. Shallow soil temperature (ST) affects many processes that occur in the soil. Therefore, the study of shallow ST is of great significance in understanding energy, hydrological cycles and climate change. This work collected the observational data from 141 meteorological stations on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau from 1981 to 2020, analyzed the ST as well as its temporal and spatial change characteristics at different levels. The results show that: 1) The shallow ST has a gradually increasing trend from north to south, from west to east. From the perspective of time characteristics, the increasing trend is obvious. The temperature increase of 0–20 cm (the surface layer of the shallow soil) is roughly the same. The average annual is 9.15–9.57 ℃, the interdecadal variabilities are 0.49–0.53 K/10a. The average annual of 40 cm (the bottom layer) is 8.69 ℃, the interdecadal variability reaches by 0.98 K/10a; 2) Judging from the 12 regions of 20 cm, the temperature increase trend is obvious, but there are certain regional differences. The average value ranges from 4.3 ℃ (region 4, Qaidam Plateau) to 18.1 ℃ (region 10, Southeast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau), the difference is nearly 14 K. The standard deviation ranges from 0.38 K (region 10) to 0.82 K (region 11, Northern Qiangtang Plateau); 3) The results of the reanalysis data are lower than the observational data. This work is significant for understanding the characteristics of the ST evolution and the land-atmosphere interaction on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Assessment of a Multi-column Deep Lake Model for Climate Applications: The Case of Lake Geneva
Authors: Gaillard Romain , Perroud Marjorie , Goyette Stéphane , Kasparian Jérôme
Published: September 2021

The interaction between large inland water bodies and the atmosphere impacts the evolution of regional weather and climate, which in turn affects the lake dynamics, thermodynamics, ice-formation, and, therefore, ecosystems. Over the last decades, various approaches have been used to model lake thermodynamics and dynamics in standalone mode or coupled to numerical atmospheric models. We assess a turbulence-closure k − ε multi-column lake model in standalone mode as a computationally-efficient alternative to a full three-dimensional hydrodynamic model in the case of Lake Geneva. While it struggles to reproduce some short-term features, the multi-column model reasonably reproduces the seasonal mean of the thermal horizontal and vertical structures governing heat and mass exchanges between the lake surface and the lower atmosphere (stratified period, thermocline depth, stability of the water column). It may therefore allow a two-way coupling with a RCM on timescales or spatial resolutions where full 3D lake models are too demanding in terms of computational resources.
Age at Menarche and Asthma Onset Among US Girls and Women: Findings from NHANES, 2001-2018
Authors: Cai Li , Qiu Lan , Wang Yaqi , Wu Li , Wu Xiaojie , Xu Ruijun , Liu Yuewei , Zhou Yun
Published: September 2021

Background: Findings on the association between early menarche and asthma onset remain inconsistent and the evidence in the US is lacking. Furthermore, there was no clear separation of childhood- and adult-onset asthma in previous studies. Therefore, we aim at quantitatively estimating the association of age at menarche with risk of childhood- and adult-onset asthma separately in US girls and women.Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 24,282 US girls and women aged less than 80 years by using continuous NHANES data in 2001-2018. Weighted Cox proportional-hazards regression models with censoring ages of 19 and 79 were used to separately estimate hazard ratios of childhood- and adult-onset asthma associated with age at menarche. Results: Each one-year increase of age at menarche was significantly associated with a 17% (HR [95%CI]: 0.83 [0.77, 0.90]) decrease in the risk of childhood-onset asthma. Compared with age at menarche of 12-14, we observed a 60% (HR [95%CI]: 1.60 [1.22, 2.09]) increased risk of childhood-onset asthma for early menarche (age at menarche <12 years) and 41% (HR [95%CI]: 0.59 [0.32, 1.08]) decreased risk for late menarche (age at menarche ≥15 years). Race, family income, education and family history of asthma did not modify these associations. No significant association between age at menarche and adult-onset asthma.Conclusions: In this US nationally representative study, we found that early menarche was associated with increased risk of childhood-onset asthma, but not adult-onset asthma. These findings help demonstrate early menarche may be a risk factor for childhood-onset asthma in US, indicating timely and effective management of special individuals with early menarche for preventing asthma.
Development of an Efficient Cement Production Monitoring System Based on the Improved Random Forest Algorithm
Authors: Zermane Hanane , Drardja Abbes
Published: September 2021

Strengthening production plants and process control functions contribute to a global improvement of manufacturing systems because of their cross-functional characteristics in the industry. Companies established various innovative and operational strategies and there is increasing competitiveness among them and increase companies’ value. Machine Learning (ML) techniques have become an intelligent enticing option to address industrial issues in the current manufacturing sector since the emergence of Industry 4.0, and the extensive integration of paradigms such as big data, cloud computing, high computational power, and enormous storage capacity. Implementing a system that can identify faults early to avoid critical situations in the line production and environment is crucial. Therefore, one of the powerful machine learning algorithms is Random Forest (RF). The ensemble learning algorithm is performed to fault diagnosis and SCADA real-time data classification and predicting the state of the line production. Random Forests proved to be a better classifier with a 95% accuracy. Comparing to the SVM model, the accuracy is 94.18%, however, the K-NN model accuracy is about 93.83%, an accuracy of 80.25% is achieved using the logistic regression model, finally, about 83.73% is obtained by the decision tree model. The excellent experimental results achieved on the Random Forest model showed the merits of this implementation in the production performance, ensuring predictive maintenance, and avoid wasting energy.
TFE3 Associated Perivascular Epithelioid Cell Tumor with Complete Response to mTOR Inhibitor Therapy: Report of First Case and Literature Review
Authors: PURWAR ROLI , Soni Kishan , Shukla Mridula , Verma Ashish , Kumar Tarun , Pandey Manoj
Published: September 2021

Background: Perivascular epitheloid cell tumor (PEComas) are characterised by expression of both muscles, most often smooth muscle actin (in ~80% of cases) and melanocytic markers (mainly HMB-45 and Melan A). TFE 3 associated PEComas are new variant which are poorly defined due to their limited reports in literature. These tumors lack response to targeted mTOR inhibitor therapy due to lack of mutation in TSC gene. Hereby we are reporting a case of TFE3 associated pelvic PEComa showing excellent response to Everolimus. Case presentation: A 45-year-old female presented with complaint of abdominal mass and bleeding per vaginum for 4 months. She had a history of total abdominal hysterectomy 3 years back in view of abnormal uterine bleeding and exploratory laprotomy 7 months back to remove some pelvic mass. Imaging suggested of ill-defined heterogenous mass of 9.3 x 9.2 x 16 cm involving uterus, cervix and upper 1/3 vagina. Multiple omental and peritoneal deposits were also seen, making probable diagnosis of carcinoma endometrium. USG guided biopsy showed cores of fibrous tissue with presence of cells in sheets with granular eosinophillic cytoplasm, IHC showed positivity for TFE -3, H Caldesmon, GATA-3, Melan A-and HMB-45, Ki 67 index was 35%. On the basis of above diagnosis of PEComa was made and she was started on Everolimus, repeat imaging after 3 months of therapy, showed complete response.Conclusion: We are reporting first case of malignant pelvic TFE 3 PEComa showing response to mTOR therapy. Identification of TFE 3 PEComa is important because they showed different biologic behaviour then their conventional PEComa.
A Small Target Detection Research Based on Dynamic Convolution Neural Network
Authors: Bai Chenshuai , Wu Kaijun , Wang Dicong , Li Hong , Yan Mingjun , Huang Tao
Published: September 2021

Because the detection effect of EfficientNet-YOLOv3 target detection algorithm is not very good, this paper proposes a small target detection research based on dynamic convolution neural network. Firstly, the dynamic convolutional neural network is introduced to replace the traditional convolutional neural network, which makes the algorithm model more robust; Secondly, in the training process, the optimization parameters are continuously adjusted to further strengthen the model structure; Finally, in order to prevent over fitting, the Learning Rate and Batch Size parameters are modified during the training process. remote sensing image The results of the proposed algorithm on RSOD remote sensing image data sets show that compared with the original EfficientNet-YOLOv3 algorithm, the (Average Precision, AP) value is increased by 1.93% and the (Log Average Miss Rate ,LAMR) value is reduced by 0.0500; The results of the proposed algorithm on TGRS-HRRSD remote sensing image data set show that compared with the original EfficientNet-YOLOv3 algorithm, the mAP value is increased by 0.07% and the mLAMR value is reduced by 0.0007.
Exploration of a Metabolism-Related Gene Signature Predicting Prognosis for Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhang Jinling , Zhang Yifan , Zhang Lin , Li Haili
Published: September 2021

Background: Dysregulation of metabolism plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and progression of ovarian cancer (OC). However, the expression pattern of metabolic genes in OC and the prognostic value of metabolism-related genes for OC patients remains to be elucidated. Thus, this study aimed to identify a metabolism-related prognostic gene signature for OC. Methods: The expression profiles of metabolism-related genes and associated clinicopathological characteristics were obtained from online datasets (The Cancer Genome Atlas, TCGA and The Genotype-Tissue Expression, GTEx). The differently expressed genes were subjected to functional enrichment analysis. By means of LASSO, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses, this predictive signature was constructed and validated by internal and external databases. Genomic alterations, immune infiltration, tumor microenvironment, and drug sensitivity associated with the signature were also described.Results: A total of 302 metabolism-related differentially expressed genes were identified. These genes were mainly enriched in functions associated with substance and energy metabolism. Based on the 302 identified genes, a prognostic signature of 21 metabolic genes was constructed and validated across internal and external cohorts. The patients in the high-risk group had significantly longer overall survival compared to those in the low-risk group. By univariate and multivariate Cox regression, the signature was identified as an independent prognostic predictor for overall survival. There were also noticeable differences with regards to genetic alteration, immune infiltration, tumor microenvironment and drug sensitivity between the two groups.Conclusion: Our study suggests that clinical outcomes of OC patients are associated with dysregulated metabolic genes and that the metabolism-related prognostic signature can be used as a predictor for the overall survival of OC patients.
Quality of Life: Modified Triple-branched Stent Graft Implantation Versus Frozen Elephant Trunk Technique
Authors: Luo Zeng-Rong , Tang Mi-Rong , Li Jia-Hui , Chen Liang-Wan , Yan Liang-Liang
Published: September 2021

Objective: To compare the effects of modified triple-branched stent implantation and frozen elephant trunk technique on the quality of life (QoL) of acute Stanford Type A aortic dissection (AAAD) patients at different follow-up times.Methods: Data from 175 AAAD survivors was collected which were divided into two groups according to different surgical techniques: (group A): modified triple-branched stent graft implantation; (group B): frozen elephant trunk. The SF-36 were used to assess the QoL at discharge(AD), the third postoperative month (POM3), and the twelfth postoperative month (POM12).Results: (1)The total scores at each time of both groups showed lower than the normal level; Group A scored higher than group B at some time points in terms of some items (role physical, role emotion and mental health; all P=0.000), and some items at POM3 or POM12 scored higher than at discharge (role physical, social function; both P=0.000). (2) There were less patients with heavy self-perceived burden in group A than group B at discharge (P=0.032) and patients with heavy self-perceived burden decreased over time. (3) Young postoperative AAD patients (P=0.002) in group B (P=0.005) with heavy self-perceived burden (P=0.000) , acute renal failure (P=0.008) , long LOS (P=0.026) and blood loss（> 1000 mL / 24h）(P=0.039) seemed to get a worse QoL. Conclusion: The impact on QoL of the modified triple-branched stent graft implantation technique seemed to be better than those of frozen elephant trunk surgery in role physical, role emotion and mental health.
Improving the Elderly’s Mental Health by Using Public Open Spaces in Disadvantaged Urban Neighborhoods: Tehran, Iran
Authors: Lak Azadeh , Rashidghalam Parichehr
Published: September 2021

Background: Today, the beneficial impact of public open spaces(POS) on the mental and physical health of the elderly is considered worldwide. However, the knowledge about these effects on the mental health of older adults in disadvantaged urban neighborhoods, especially in developing countries, is still insufficient.Methods: This study investigates the relationship between POS use and the mental health status of elderly residents in the disadvantaged neighborhoods of Tehran, the capital of Iran. The data on the frequency of use of public open spaces and the health status include ten items collected from 420 older adults of disadvantaged neighborhoods in District 10 of Tehran. We used exploratory factor analysis to explore the main factors of the elderly mental health in the disadvantaged neighborhood. Finally, the multivariate multiple regression model was used to determine the relationship between the frequency of POS use and mental health status among older seniors.Results: These ten items identified two fundamental characteristics of mental health status, including “feeling worthless” and “social interaction,” using exploratory factor analysis. “Feeling of worthlessness” was negatively significantly associated with the level of gender, marital, occupation, and education, as well as frequently attending in POS. “Social interaction” was influenced by gender, occupation, and marital status, as well as frequent use of POS. The results showed that the frequency of public open space use has a negative correlation with the feeling of worthlessness and a positive correlation with the older residents’ social interactions and contacts.Conclusion: According to the findings, increasing the more senior residents’ access to public open spaces through planning can improve their mental health as well as their social interactions, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
Nonhomogeneous Poisson Process Model of Summer High Temperature Extremes Over China
Authors: Gao Meng , Zhang Han , Zhang Aidi , Wang Yueqi
Published: September 2021

In this study, nonhomogeneous Poisson process (NHPP) models arising from the extreme value theory have been fitted to summer high temperature extremes (HTEs) at 359 meteorological stations over China. The seasonality and six prominent atmospheric teleconnection patterns in Northern Hemisphere are incorporated in the NHPP models reflecting the non-stationarity in occurrence rate in Poisson process of HTEs. In addition, Poisson regression model has also been applied to link HTEs and teleconnection patterns. The linkages of HTEs and teleconnection patterns have been identified in both NHPP modeling and Poisson regression. Composite maps of differences of 500-hPa geopotential height and wind fields in the positive and negative phases of teleconnection patterns are constructed to show the impacts of atmospheric circulation patterns on extreme heat events. The spatial pattern of the associated anticyclonic or cyclonic circulations with teleconnection patterns partly explains the spatial variability of the occurrences of summer HTEs over China.
Intravenous Infusion Route in Maternal Resuscitation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Nakamura Eishin , Takahashi Shinji , Matsunaga Shigetaka , Tanaka Hiroaki , Furuta Marie , Sakurai Atsushi
Published: September 2021

Background: The upper extremities can be used as an infusion route during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in pregnant women. This is a reasonable recommendation considering the characteristic circulation of pregnant women, but this method is not based on scientific evidence.Objective of the Review: We conducted a scoping review to determine whether the infusion route should be established above the diaphragm during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a pregnant woman. Discussion: We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs on the infusion of fluids in pregnant women after 20 weeks of gestation requiring establishment of an infusion route due to cardiac arrest, massive bleeding, intra-abdominal bleeding, cesarean section, severe infection, or thrombosis. In total, 3150 articles from electronic database were extracted, respectively. After title and abstract review, 265 articles were extracted, and 116 articles were extracted by full-text screening, which were included in the final analysis. The 116 articles included 78 studies on infusion for pregnant women. The location of the intravenous infusion route could be confirmed in only 17 studies, all of which used the upper extremity to secure the venous route. Conclusion: Pregnant women undergo significant physiological changes that differ from those of normal adults, because of pressure and drainage of the inferior vena cava and pelvic veins by the enlarged uterus. Therefore, despite a lack of evidence, it seems logical to secure the infusion route above the diaphragm when resuscitating a pregnant woman.
The First Conserved Mitochondrial Genome of Polygraphus Poligraphus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Its Phylogenetic Implications
Authors: Song Xianmei , Zhao Yuchen , Zhao Peng , Ma Yinxiang , Bai Ming , Wang Xinpu
Published: September 2021

Background: Polygraphus poligraphus L., the four-eyed spruce bark beetle, belongs to the Curculionidae (Coleoptera), which mainly harms Picea asperata Mast and Pinus armandii Franch tree trunks. So far, there is no mitochondrial genome reported for P. poligraphus.Results: In this study, we sequenced and annotated the nearly complete mitogenome of P. poligraphus for the first time and predicted the secondary structures of its tRNAs. The results showed that the mitogenome of P. poligraphus was 15,302 bp (partial genome) in length with A + T content of 69.65% due to large-scale duplication. The nearly complete mitochondrial genome of P. Poligraphus contained a set of 36 genes typical of the insect mitogenome, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 21 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs) but lacked tRNA-Ile, as for the typical insect mitogenome. The results of nucleotide skew statistics showed that the AT-skews and GC-skew of P. poligraphus were positive and negative, respectively, which were similar to other Scolytinae insects. All PCGs were initiated with the standard start codon ATN. All tRNA genes had the typical cloverleaf structure, except for the trnS1, which lacked a dihydroxyuridine (DHU) arm. Furthermore, we reconstructed phylogenetic trees of P. poligraphus based on the data set of the mitogenome’s protein-coding gene sequences using the Bayesian inference (BI) method. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the P. poligraphus mitogenome clustered with Gnathotrichus materiarius and Pityophthorus pubescens mitogenomes in a monophyletic manner. The phylogeny of these three genera of Scolytinae is presented as Polygraphus + (Gnathotrichus + Pityophthorus). Conclusions: The results presented herein will provide a reference for further molecular taxonomy, evolution and phylogenetic research of P. poligraphus. However, additional mitogenome samples are still needed to more satisfactorily resolve the phylogeny of the Scolytinae.
GVF27, a human derived peptide with anti-infective properties against biofilm forming members of the Burkholderia cepacia complex
Authors: Bosso Andrea , Gaglione Rosa , Girolamo Rocco Di , Veldhuizen Edwin , García-Vello Pilar , Fusco Salvatore , Cafaro Valeria , Culurciello Rosanna , Notomista Eugenio , Arciello Angela , Pizzo Elio
Published: September 2021

Therapeutic solutions to counter Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc) bacteria are challenging due to their intrinsically high level of antibiotic resistance. Bcc organisms display a variety of potential virulence factors, have a distinct lipopolysaccharide naturally implicated in antimicrobial resistance and are able to form biofilms, which may further protect them from both host defence peptides (HDPs) and antibiotics. Here, we report the extremely promising anti-biofilm and immunomodulatory activities of human HDP GVF27 on two of the most clinically relevant Bcc members, as Burkholderia multivorans and Burkholderia cenocepacia. The effects of synthetic and labelled GVF27 were tested on B. cenocepacia and B. multivorans biofilms, at three different stages of formation, by alternative microscopy approaches. Assays on bacterial cultures and on human monocytes challenged with B. cenocepacia LPS, were also performed. GVF27 exerts, at different stages of formation, meaningful anti-biofilm effects towards both Bcc strains, a significant propensity to function in combination with ciprofloxacin, a relevant affinity for LPSs isolated from Burkholderia cenocepacia as well as a good propensity to mitigate the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in human cells pre-treated with the same endotoxin. Overall, all these findings contribute to the elucidation of the main features that a good therapeutic agent directed against these extremely leathery biofilm-forming bacteria should possess.
Environmental and Economic Benefits of Establishing a Sustainable Transportation System Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Qi Xiaotian
Published: September 2021

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a modern concept which has turned the conventional way of living into a high technology lifestyle. The transformations caused by IoT are the smart city, smart homes, pollution control, energy savings, smart transport and the smart industries. Transportation infrastructure has a huge impact on sustainable development. Sustainable development concerns over environmental quality, social, economic vitality, and climate variation strategic planning due to increasing CO2 have come together to generate an increasing interest in an alternative approach. Sustainable development is very important in any pattern, particularly in the century, and it is therefore very necessary to address sustainable development. In the transport sector, sustainable development can be divided into three main areas: society, economy and environment. Consequently, in this paper, the IoT driven Intelligent Transportation Framework (IoTDITF) has been proposed to establish a sustainable transportation system. Sustainable transport approaches include demand management, price policies, improvement of vehicle technology, clean fuels and integrated land use and transport scheduling. This paper attempts to analyze certain economic problems, such as realistic pricing and the development of an integrated transport network.The findings serve as a guide for policymakers, transport modelers, and planners to adopt indicators on an operating level, thereby simplifying the aggressive task of selecting an indicator.
Security Aspects of Critical Infrastructure Protection in Anthropogenic Disasters: A Case Study of Belgrade
Authors: Cvetković Vladimir M. , Kezunović Andrija
Published: September 2021

Recognized as the basis for maintaining the functionality of the community in disaster conditions, the protection of critical infrastructure is one of the most important measures to improve the resilience of society. Starting from the fact that society can be affected by various natural and anthropogenic disasters, the subject of this chapter refers to a comprehensive analysis of the security aspects of critical infrastructure protection in anthropogenic (man-made) disasters. On the other hand, the social goal of the research is to determine the level of public awareness of the importance of protecting critical infrastructure from these disasters. By applying the quantitative research tradition, quantitative research was realized in the area of ​​the city of Belgrade, in which 200 respondents were interviewed by the method of random sampling. The obtained research results unequivocally indicate that preventive action in this area should be mainly focused on the adoption of strategies based on which plans are made to prevent the occurrence of these disasters, as well as operational procedures for the protection of critical infrastructure.
The influence of direct oral anticoagulants on thrombin generation on Ceveron TGA
Authors: Pfrepper Christian , Behrendt Lisa-Charlott , Bönigk Hagen , Siegemund Thomas , Metze Michael , Franke Dirk , Petros Sirak , Siegemund Annelie
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Monitoring of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) with calibrated anti-Xa assay is limited by the high intra- and interindividual variation of the test results. Thrombin generation (TG) is a global hemostatic assay that reflects the patient´s individual coagulation status. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of DOACs on TG measured with a fully automated assay system. Methods: All consecutive patients under apixaban and rivaroxaban coming to the outpatient coagulation center MVZ Limbach, Magdeburg, Germany between October 2017 and April 2020 were included. DOAC plasma levels were correlated with TG assessed using the fully automated Ceveron TG analyser. Results: A total of 703 rivaroxaban and 252 apixaban containing plasma samples were included. There was a significant correlation between DOAC plasma levels and all TG parameters except for lag time regarding apixaban. Time to peak and peak thrombin followed an exponential regression curve, while this was linear for the endogenous thrombin potential (ETP). Apixaban showed a lower correlation coefficient for all TG parameters compared to rivaroxaban and thrombin generation was less influenced by apixaban than rivaroxaban at plasma levels > 100 ng/mL. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of normal TG parameters for the prediction of DOAC plasma levels < 30 ng/mL was > 85%. Conclusion: The present data show a moderate predominantly non-linear correlation between TG parameters and plasma levels of apixaban and rivaroxaban. Rivaroxaban has a stronger effect on TG than apixaban.
Antipsychotic drugs increase Neuregulin1b1 serum levels in first-episode drug-naïve patients and chronic schizophrenia with suggestions for improving the treatment of psychotic symptoms
Authors: Yang Haidong , Pan Wen , Xiao Wenhuan , Yang Man , Xu Jianchun , Li Jin , Zhang Xiaobin
Published: September 2021

Background: Neuregulin1 (NRG1) plays a role in neuronal migration, regulation of synaptic plasticity, and neural survival, and has been considered to be among the candidate genes for schizophrenia. This study focused on the variations in serum NRG1b1 levels following antipsychotic treatment and the relationship between NRG1b1 level and improvements in psychotic symptoms in first-episode drug-naïve (FEDN) patients and chronic schizophrenia.Methods: A total of 100 patients with schizophrenia were recruited and compared with 79 matched healthy controls. All patients had been drug-naïve for at least four weeks. Serum NRG1b1 levels and positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS) scores were measured at the baseline and after four weeks. Serum NRG1b1 levels were measured using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).Results: Baseline NRG1b1 levels were significantly lower in the patients with schizophrenia compared with the healthy controls. NRG1b1 levels increased significantly following antipsychotic treatment. NRG1b1 levels gradually increased with declining PANSS scores and its three subscales during antipsychotic therapy. The levels of NRG1b1 increased significantly in responders after four weeks of treatment, although non-responders showed no such effect. Correlation analyses showed that the levels of NRG1b1 were negatively correlated with the duration of illness and positively correlated with improvement in symptoms.Conclusion: The levels of serum NRG1b1 and the therapeutic effects gradually increased following treatment, indicating that NRG1b1 may be an indicator of therapy, and that it may also be associated with the pathophysiological mechanism causing schizophrenia, although this possible pathway requires further investigation. Antipsychotic drugs increase Neuregulin1b1 serum levels in first-episode drug-naïve patients and chronic schizophrenia with suggestions for improving the treatment of psychotic symptoms
Childhood Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with Direct Coombs Test Positive in the Absence of Hemolytic Anemia – A Rare Case Report
Authors: Sreekumar Vani , . Mangaiyarkarasi
Published: September 2021

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus being a chronic autoimmune multisystem inflammatory disease, affects predominantly women of reproductive age group. Childhood – Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a rare disease with an incidence of 10% - 20%. Positive direct Coombs test in the absence of hemolytic anemia indicates high disease activity and severe renal damage. Herein we report a case of 11-year-old female child diagnosed as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus with positive direct Coombs test in absence of hemolytic anemia which is very rare.
The Role of Laboratory Parameters in Assessment of Disease Severity and Outcome in COVID-19 patients – A Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Care Centre in Southern India
Authors: B Rajeshwari , Shanmugam Salapathi , Mathan Anila , R Dhananjayan , B Isabella Princess , K Selvan , Ghosh Mitra
Published: September 2021

Background: Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID19) is a global pandemic, the outbreak of which started in China in December 2019. Apart from the clinical symptoms and pulmonary computed tomography (CT) findings, several laboratory biomarkers also play an important role in management of these patients so that immediate attention can be given to those with severe disease and critical illness. In this study we tried to find the association of various laboratory biomarkers in COVID-19 patients, analyzed around the time of admission, with the severity of the disease and outcome.

Methods: In this study 1048 COVID19 positive cases admitted in our hospital during the study period from April 2020 to October 2020 were included. The cases were clinically assessed based on the severity of the disease at the time of presentation and during the course in hospital and categorized into 3 categories as Mild, Moderate and Severe according to our hospital protocol for management of COVID 19 patients. The clinical and laboratory data were retrieved from electronic medical records. The levels of various laboratory parameters at/around the time of admission were compared with clinical categories, severity and outcome of the disease.

Result: We found a statistically significant association of severity and outcome of COVID-19 with various laboratory parameters. There were significantly higher levels of D-dimer, LDH, CK, CRP, Sr Ferritin, cTnI, NT pro BNP, PCT, IL-6 and lower ALC in non survivors compared to survivors and in severe disease compared to mild disease with a p value of <0.05.

Conclusion: In this study we propose that along with the initial clinical assessment, age and concurrent co-morbidities of COVID-19 patients which determine the need for their admission to ICUs, the initial assessment of several laboratory parameters is helpful in triaging the patients who need intensive care so that proper allocation of resources can be done.
Pleomorphic Adenoma of Lacrimal Gland: A Rare Entity
Authors: Kazi Kirti Chadha , Parameshwar Vivek Choodamani , Kavishwar Vikas S , Shetty Prithesh Bhaskar
Published: September 2021

Among the various tumours affecting the lacrimal gland, pleomorphic adenomas though most common can present clinically and radiologically as worrisome tumours. Histopathologic diagnosis hence is very critical for these tumours. We present a case of pleomorphic adenoma of the lacrimal gland which we encountered at our institutes. The patient was a 46-year-old male who came with complaints of a gradually progressing swelling in the right eye not associated with much pain or significant loss of vision. MRI revealed a large lobulated extrachoanal mass causing mass effect and scalloping of the adjacent bony structures. An excision biopsy was done and sent for histopathological examination. Histologically the tumour showed a biphasic morphology comprising of epithelial (ductal and myoepithelial) and chondromyxoid stromal components. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for pan CK and CK 7 in ductal epithelial cells, p63 and S100 in myoepithelial cells and a low Ki67 index. On the basis of immunohistochemistry profile along with clinicoradiological correlation a final diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma of the lacrimal gland was made. The patient post-surgery was doing well but was lost to follow up. It can thus be seen that is it absolutely necessary to accurately diagnose these benign but clinically misconceiving rare tumours of the lacrimal gland for appropriate management of such patients.
Histopathological Study of Epithelial, Melanocytic And Adnexal Tumors Of Skin- A Retrospective Study In A Tertiary Care Centre
Authors: Pitla Sandhya , Dara Vijayasri
Published: September 2021

Background and objectives:  To classify and identify various skin tumors and study their variations according to age and sex. The most common predisposing factors being   fair skin, sun exposure, chemical exposure, HPV infection in the setting of immunosuppression.

Methods: This was an observational study carried out in the Department of Pathology at private Medical College of coastal Andhra from July 2018 to June 2020.

Result: The present study included histopathological study of 71 cases of tumors of skin and its adnexae over a period of two years.  Out of the 71 tumors, 43 were diagnosed as benign and 28 as malignant tumors of skin constituting 61% and 39% respectively. The ratio of benign to malignant tumors was 1:0.63. Among the 43 benign tumors 20 (46.5%) were tumors of skin appendages, 15 (34.9%) were tumors of epidermis, 8 (18.6%) were of melanocytic origin.  Among the 28 malignant tumors 25 (89.3%) were tumors of epidermis, 2 (7.1%) were melanocytic tumors and 1 (3.6%) was tumor of skin appendages. Among the malignant epidermal tumors squamous cell carcinoma was the most common constituting 42.9% (12 cases).

Conclusion: The present study concludes that benign tumors are most common when compared to malignant tumors of skin. Among the malignant tumors, Squamous cell carcinoma falls as the most common variety of skin followed by Basal cell carcinoma and verrucous carcinoma. Among the benign tumors, tumors of epidermal origin are most frequent followed by tumors of sweat gland and adnexal-hair follicle origin.
Assessment of Utility of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in Patients of Peripheral Lymphadenopathy- Experience of A Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Sharma Upender , Singh Ajit , Kamra Hemlata T , Beniwal Atul , Sharma Sonam
Published: September 2021

Background: Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a quick, sensitive, safe, reliable and cost-effective outdoor procedure that has a lower risk of complications as compared to a surgical biopsy. This study was conducted to analyse the various cytomorphological patterns establishing the diagnosis on FNAC in peripheral lymphadenopathy patients along with their clinical presentation.Methods: This study included 300 patients of peripheral lymphadenopathy in a tertiary care hospital of north-central Haryana. FNAC was done under all aseptic conditions and various cytomorphological patterns were analysed.Result: On stratification of lymph node lesions, 240/300 cases (80%) were reported as non-neoplastic and 60/300 cases (20%) as neoplastic lesions. Among the non-neoplastic lesions, granulomatous pathology was the commonest lesion encountered in 137/240 cases (57.1%), followed by reactive lymphoid hyperplasia and suppurative lymphadenitis. Metastatic involvement of lymph node was the commonest pathological finding diagnosed in 52/60 of malignant neoplastic cases (86.66%). Overall, the cervical lymph nodes were most commonly involved in 68.66% patients, followed by other lymph nodes.Conclusion: Lymphadenopathy can have varied etiologies ranging from non-neoplastic to neoplastic conditions. FNAC as a first line investigative procedure in lymphadenopathy patients obviates the need for surgical excision and guides subsequent patient therapy and management. The cervical group of lymph nodes are most commonly involved in both non neoplastic as well as neoplastic lymph node lesions. In younger age group (<30 years) non neoplastic causes of lymphadenopathy are more common whereas in elderly the malignant neoplastic causes are more common. The secondary metastatic carcinoma is more common than primary lymphoma of the lymph nodes.
The Explanatory Power of the Concept of Embodiment in Anthropology
Authors: Kulenović Nina ,   Department and Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade
Published: September 2021

As part of the author's cumulative research on the types of explanation, the structure of explanation and the explanatory capacity of key concepts in sociocultural anthropology, this paper looks at the concept of embodiment. The relevance of reappraising the explanatory power of this concept is manifold, above all on the interpretive, conceptual and paradigmatic level. Research suggests that the concept of embodiment – although very popular, commonly used in very influential scholarly monographs and academic papers, and even proposed as the cornerstone of a "new paradigm for anthropology" – has a very limited explanatory capacity. It seems that its use in no way contributes to anthropological argumentation on the level of explanation – neither cumulatively nor in terms of recontextualisation. Namely, it turns out that by deleting the word "embodiment" from the analyzed arguments nothing would be lost, and that the anthropological explanatory apparatus developed within the anthropology of the body, the anthropology of gender and the anthropology of kinship – whose use precedes contemporary popular uses of the concept of embodiment – does not have a smaller scope in terms of explanatory power.
Interaction of agonists of a different subtype of the nAChR and carvacrol with GABA in Ascaris suum somatic muscle contractions
Authors: Marjanović Djordje S. , Trailović Saša M. , Milovanović Mirjana
Published: September 2021

Resistance of parasitic nematodes to anthelmintic drugs is a growing problem in human and veterinary medicine. The molecular mechanisms by which nematodes become resistant are different, but certainly one of the possible processes involves changing the drug binding site on the specific receptor. The significance of changes in individual subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) for the development of resistance has not been clarified in detail. This study investigates the interaction of antinematodal drugs, agonist of different types of nAChRs and carvacrol with gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the contractions of parasitic nematode A. suum. In our study, GABA (3 μM) produced significant increase of contractile EC50 value for pyrantel, and nonsignificant for bephenium and morantel, from 8.44 to 28.11 nM, 0.62 to 0.96 µM, and 3.72 to 5.69 nM, respectively. On the other hand, the maximal contractile effect (R
max) did not change in the presence of GABA. However, when A. summ muscle flaps were incubated with GABA 3 μM and carvacrol 100 μM, the EC50 value of pyrantel, bephenium, and morantel was increased significantly to 44.62 nM, 1.40 μM, and nonsignificantly to 7.94 nM, respectively. Furthermore, R
max decreased by 70, 60, and 65%. Presented results indicate that the combined use of GABA receptor agonists and nicotinic receptor antagonists can effectively inhibit the neuromuscular system of nematodes, even when one of the nicotinic receptor subtypes is dysfunctional, due to the potential development of resistance.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth Syndrome
Authors: Okuniewicz Robert , Moos Łukasz , Brzoza Zenon
Published: September 2021

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SIBO) is a heterogeneous syndrome characterized by an increase in the number and/or presence of atypical bacteria in the small intestine. Aetiology of SIBO is usually complex, associated with disorders of protective antibacterial mechanisms such as achlorhydria, pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, immunodeficiency syndromes and anatomical abnormalities such as small intestinal obstruction, diverticula, fistulae, surgical blind loop, previous ileo-caecal resections and motility disorders. Clinical signs of SIBO may be non-specific. Most often there is dyspepsia, diarrhoea, bloating and abdominal discomfort. SIBO can sometimes lead to malebsorption, severe malenutrition and/or other syndromes associated with nutritional deficiency. The gold standard for diagnosing SIBO is still microbial investigation of jejunal aspirates. Non-invasive hydrogen breath tests are most commonly used for diagnosis of SIBO. Therapy for SIBO must be complex. It should include treatment of the underlying disease, nutritional support and cyclical gastro-intestinal selective antibiotics. Prognosis is usually serious, determined mostly by the underlying disease that led to SIBO.
Usefulness Of Microbial Cytotoxins In The Diagnosis Of Selected Bacterial Infections
Authors: Godkowicz Magdalena , Rudnicka Karolina
Published: September 2021

The reaction of synergistic hemolysis, which is the basis of the CAMP test, is used in the preliminary identification of selected bacterial pathogens, including L. monocytogenes, C. perfringens, S. agalactiae. The experimental part was to determine the influence blood cells of used, incubation time, distance between growth lines and the type of strains on the intensity of CAMP. Synergistic hemolysis was observed in the classic CAMP test, when 10% human blood cell is used in the medium. It has been shown that the optimal substrate for the CAMP test to identify Listeria sp. is an agar with the 5% addition of human blood cells. While sheep’s erythrocytes were the best substrate for hemolysis of C. perfringens. The optimum distance and incubation time for the tested bacterial species was 1–4 mm and 24 h. When performing preliminary identification of pathogenic microorganisms using the CAMP test, different types of erythrocytes should be used, due to strain and species-specific variabilieties.
Enzymatic Hydrogen Bioproduction. Structure, Function And Application Of Hydrogenases
Authors: Witkowska Małgorzata , Żylicz-Stachula Agnieszka , Struck Anna
Published: September 2021

Hydrogenases are multimeric metalloenzymes that are able to catalyze the reversible reaction of proton reduction to molecular hydrogen. These enzymes have been already used for small-scale hydrogen bioproduction. However, scaling up this process for industrial application requires genetic engineering of hydrogenases to improve their stability, as well as to develop a streamlined strategy for their production. The following article provides information on the structure, classification and applications of hydrogenases.
GÜVENLİ ELEKTRONİK İMZA SAHİBİNİN HAKLARI VE YÜKÜMLÜLÜKLERİ
Authors: ÖZGÜL Mehmet Emin
Published: September 2021

2004 yılında yürürlüğe giren Elektronik İmza Kanunu ve ardından gelen diğer hukuki düzenlemelerle birlikte, elektronik imza kullanımı giderek yaygınlaşmış hem kamuda hem de özel sektörde sıklıkla kullanılmaya başlamıştır. Güvenli elektronik imza, özellikle pratikliği ve güvenilirliği sebebiyle tercih edilen bir imza yöntemi olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Hem Borçlar Kanun’unda hem de Elektronik İmza Kanun’unda, güvenli elektronik imza, kural olarak el ile atılan imzaya hukuken eşdeğer sayılmıştır. Bunun için güvenli elektronik imzanın Kanunla belirlenen özellikleri taşıması gerekir. Çalışmamızda bu özelliklerden genel olarak bahsedilmiştir. Kullanımı yaygın olan güvenli elektronik imza türünde, imza sahibi kimselerin çoğunlukla sözleşmelerin içeriğine dikkat etmeyebileceği, mevzuattaki düzenlemelerden de haberdar olmayabilecekleri göz önünde bulundurulmuş ve konunun derli toplu işlenmesine çalışılmıştır. İmza sahibi olan kişilerin hakları ve yükümlülükleri sınıflandırılarak, belli başlıklar altında incelenmiş, dolaylı olarak güvenli elektronik sertifika hizmetini sağlayanların da hak ve yükümlülüklerinden bahsedilmiştir. İmza sahibinin ve sertifika hizmeti verenlerin yükümlülüklerini yerine getirmesinin önemine dikkat çekilmeye çalışılmış, bu yolla hukuki sorunların azalacağına ve bu imza türüne olan güvenin artacağı inancıyla konu incelenmeye çalışılmıştır. Halihazırda var olan eksiklikler ve sorunlar tespit edilmeye çalışılarak, imza sahibi olanlarda veya edinmeyi düşünenlerde farkındalık oluşturulması hedeflenmiştir.
Language and Communication Features of Childhood-Onset Schizophrenia and Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Literature Review
Authors: ÇABUK Tuğçe , ÖZDEMİR Şevket , TÖRET Gökhan
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Schizophrenia (SZ) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) both have life-long and negative impacts on the individuals. In contrast to ASD, SZ occurs “rarely” in childhood (before the age of 13) which is called Childhood-Onset Schizophrenia (COS). Although COS and ASD have distinct pathologies, they exhibit common characteristics since they were described first. One of the most important commonalities is overlapping language and communication features. Till now, it is known that there is no integrative model related to the mutual language characteristics and underlying neurogenetic factors covering both of these disorders. Therefore, this literature review aimed to reveal previous research reporting both diverging and converging language issues with regards to these populations. The information presented in this review also aimed to help special education professionals about noticing the children who might present the features of COS. For this aim, firstly, the historical backgrounds of the disorders were given. Later, the language and communication features of COS and ASD including the overlapping characteristics were presented in light of previous research.Discussion: Studies showed that pragmatic limitations could be observed within both populations. Atypical language characteristics such as echolalia and self-talk could also be mutually observed. A need for future studies exploring the morphological and semantic levels of COS and ASD was emphasized. Furthermore, it was proposed that retrospective and prospective studies could be designed with a large sample. The connection between language and pretend play or executive functions could be examined.