bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma: Development and Validation of Prognostic Index of Necroptosis-Related Genes
Authors: Wu zixuan , Huang Xuyan , Cai Minjie , Huang peidong , Guan Zunhui
Published: October 2021

Background: Renal carcinoma is a frequent kind of malignant tumour of the urinary system, and its prevalence is increasing. Methods: The predictive significance of Necroptosis-related genes (NRGs) in 539 Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets was investigated. We wanted to show how NRGs interact with immunological checkpoints and m6A in KIRC. In the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, gene set enrichment analysis was employed to study gene expression enrichment. Lasso regression was used to build the predictive model. According to a co-expression study, gene expression is directly related to necroptosis. In the absence of additional clinical signs, NRGs was shown to be partly overexpressed in high-risk individuals, indicating that they might be used in a model to predict KIRC prognosis. GSEA identified immunological and tumour-related pathways in the high-risk group. Results: According to TCGA, immune checkpoint and m6A genes differ considerably between the low-risk and high-risk groups. PLA2G4D, H2AC17, H2AC7, IRF9, and other genes varied between the two risk groups. NRGs are linked to the onset and development of KIRC. Conclusions: Using matching predictive models, the prognosis of KIRC patients may be predicted. NRGs and the association of immunological checkpoints and m6A with NRGs in KIRC may represent potential therapeutic targets that should be investigated further.
Adipose-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Reverse Bleomycin-induced Experimental Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Xiansheng , Wu Jinyan , Yuan Ruoyue , Li Yue , Yang Quyang , Wu Baojin , Zhai Xiaowen , Wang Jiucun , Magalon Jérémy , Zhu Winston M , Zhu NingWen
Published: October 2021

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive respiratory disease. Arguably, the complex interplay between immune cell subsets, coupled with an incomplete understanding in disease pathophysiology, have contributed to the paucity of successful therapies. In turn, IPF remains a fatal disease at present. Thus, with no effective therapy for either the prevention or treatment of IPF, the need for new therapies is paramount. Mesenchymal stromal/stem cell (MSC) therapy has shown promise in experimental models of IPF. Methods:The aim of this study was to test the therapeutic effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in a bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis model. First, MSC cells were obtained from mice, and then flow cytometry and cell differentiation culture methods were uesd to identify them. Then adult C57BL/6 mice were challenged with endotracheal instillation of bleomycin and treated with MSC concurrently for reversal models at day 14. Experimental groups were assessed at day 14, 21, or 28. Finally, lung fibroblasts were challenged with TGF-β1 and treated with MSC supernatant or MSCs to explore the relevant mechanisms of pulmonary fibrosis reversal. Results:We successfully obtained mesenchymal stem cells from mouse adipose tissue and identified their differentiation ability and cell phenotype.We found that the presence of MSC or its supernatant could promote the proliferation and migration of lung fibrotic cells. Meanwhile, MSC supernatant could reduce lung collagen deposition, improve Ashcroft score, and reduce the gene and protein content of lung fibrosis-related substances. Bleomycin-challenged mice presented with severe septal thickening and prominent fibrosis, and this was effectively reversed by MSC treatment.Conclusions: In summary, this study found that MSC therapy can prevent and revert the core features of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, and the beneficial effects of MSC may be mediated via its paracrine-related cytokines. It provides further evidence for the importance of the MSC in cell therapy medicine applications.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of the Polyurethane Foam Effects on Geotechnical Seismic Isolation
Authors: Gatto Michele Placido Antonio , Lentini Valentina , Montrasio Lorella
Published: October 2021

The paper focuses on the detailed analysis of the dynamic characterisation of polyurethane to evaluate the effects of polyurethane injections into the soil with the aim of geotechnical seismic isolation (GSI). To determine the dynamic properties, resonant column (RC) tests were performed at the University Kore of Enna (Italy) on specimens of pure polyurethane (PUR) with different values of density and subjected to different mean confining pressures. The results obtained by means of RC tests, in terms of shear modulus G and the damping ratio D as a function of shear strain γc, allowed to develop an analytical formulation for G- γc and D- γc curves, taking into account the linear relationship with density of both the maximum value of shear modulus Gmax and the minimum value of damping ratio Dmin. The analytical formulation derived from the experimental results is applied for ground response seismic analyses of cohesive soils injected with polyurethane, using a finite element code. The numerical results show that the polyurethane injections reduce the value of maximum acceleration at ground surface and the reduction ranges with the thickness of the soil involved by polyurethane injection.
Preparation of Cu-BTC Supported Fly Ash-Based Catalyst and Research on Low-Temperature SCR Denitration Performance
Authors: Liu Yuling , Hao Shu
Published: October 2021

The novel Cu-BTC/FA materials were synthesized with Cu-BTC as the active component and solid fly ash as the catalyst carrier. then developed as the NO removing catalysts for low temperature selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with NH3. The physic-chemical properties of catalyst samples were characterized by multiple techniques, such as SEM, XRD, FTIR, XPS, TPR and Raman. The results show that: (1) The active component Cu-BTC loading ratio is 9%, the denitration performance is excellent and has strong stability. Under this condition, the catalyst showed the highest NH3-SCR activity, giving 94% NO conversion. (2) The catalysts show the good cyclic and stability in SCR denitration under 200 ℃. (3) It still shows high NO removal rate and good stability under the condition of SO2, and the denitration rate is as high as 78.36%. (4) There is a certain degree of resource integration for carrier fly ash, which not only treats air pollutants to a certain extent, but also achieves the purpose of solid waste recycling.
Creation of Elite Rice With High-yield, Superior-quality and Strong Resistance to Brown Planthopper Based on Molecular Design
Authors: Liu Manman , Fan Fengfeng , He Shihao , Guo Yu , Chen Gaili , Li Nannan , Li Nengwu , Yuan Huanran , Si Fengfeng , Yang Fang , Li Shaoqing
Published: October 2021

BackgroundRice is the staple food feeding for more than half of the world's population. Breeding rice with high yield, superior quality and strong resistance is the goal of breeding to meet the needs of rapidly increased population. However, it is hard to achieve the aggregation of multiple complex traits based on traditional breeding methods. ResultsHere, we report the successful development of elite rice with high yield, superior quality and strong resistance to brown planthopper (BPH) by rational molecular design. According to the function of Gn8.1, APO1, Ghd7, Ghd8 and Gn1a for large panicle, Bph6 and Bph9 for brown planthopper, GW7, GS3 and qSW5 for grain appearance quality, and Wx, ALK, SBE3, SSIV2 and SSIII for cooking and eating quality of rice, we staked all of the favorable genes together by crossing five donor lines one another. There are obvious phenotypic differences between different groups of the favorable genes. After careful screening of genotype, phenotype and genetic background, three molecular design lines were bred. The newly bred line exhibited higher yield potential, better grain quality and stronger BPH-resistance than their parents. Conclusions﻿The successful creation of elite rice with high yield, superior quality and strong resistance to BPH demonstrate that molecular design at the basis of characterized genes is an effective and powerful strategy to improve multiple complex traits, it will provide a reference for the future commercial rice improvement.
A Refined Model of a Typhoon Near-Surface Wind Field Based on CFD
Authors: Yang Youtian , Dong Lin , Li Jiazi , Li Wenli , Sheng Dan , Zhang Hua
Published: October 2021

Near-surface typhoon wind field simulation is a key method for high-precision typhoon hazard assessment and is of great significance for disaster forecast, loss risk assessment and emergency management. The terrain correction method for regional large-scale wind field simulation has a single correction method, which cannot satisfy the requirements of refined risk assessment. This paper aims to use the accuracy advantage of the fluid dynamics mechanism model (CFD, computational fluid dynamics) in small-scale wind speed simulation and obtain a terrain correction method suitable for regional large-scale wind field simulation by extracting the spatial change law of the wind speed under complex terrain. Among them, typical mountains with different cross-sectional shapes and different slopes are used to characterize the undulating terrain, and the CFD model is used to simulate and analyze the wind speed changes on the upwind slope, mountain top area, leeward slope, and downwind area under different initial wind speeds. The wind speed at these locations has a good quantitative relationship with the initial wind speed. Combined with the common building wind load codes in China, the wind speed correction algorithm suitable for large-scale complex terrain has been supplemented and improved. Taking Typhoon 0713 as an example, a near-surface typhoon wind field simulation was performed. Compared with other models, the accuracy of the simulation results of terrain correction by the method provided in this article has increased by 15-19.9%. The CFD-based typhoon disaster near-surface wind field can more accurately reflect the spatial distribution and intensity of typhoon wind hazards under large-scale complex terrain. It can provide technical support for the loss risk prediction and assessment of forest resources, mountain forestry economy, crops and other disaster-bearing bodies in typhoon disasters.
The Impacts of Conventional Energies on Environmental Degradation : Does Pakistan’s Economic and Environmental Model Follows Kuznets Curve?
Authors: Nizamani Rafeeque A. , Shaikh Faheemullah , Nizamani Abdul Ghafoor , Mirjat Nayyar Hussain , Kumar Laveet , Assad Mamdouh El Haj
Published: October 2021

This paper investigates the long-run dynamic association of carbon dioxide emissions and economic progress using the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis for Pakistan from 1972 to 2019. The other variables used along with the above indicators are urbanization, financial development, manufacturing, oil and gas energy consumptions, and trade openness. The ARDL bounds testing methodology has been used and the results of the bounds testing showed that a 1% increase in economic growth and financial development would increase CO2 emissions in the country by 4.277% and 0.0787%, respectively. Urbanization and manufacturing would increase CO2 emissions by 0.648% and 0.171%, respectively. Oil and gas energy consumption would also increase CO2 emissions by 0.130% and 0.1935%, respectively. On the other hand, trade openness decreases emissions by -0.087% in the long run. Besides, findings confirm the EKC hypothesis with the reversed U-shape relation for per capita CO2 emissions and economic progress. However, the threshold point of the economy is approximately 2735.19$ year per capita, where economic progress can mitigate the impact of pollution lies beyond the study period. Finally, for policy implications: (i) the government should focus on economic growth by overcoming CO2 emissions as per capita income is scarce. (ii) the control and proper expansion of urban areas and empowering the inhabitants with knowledge and awareness to play their role in mitigating the effects of CO2 emissions on society. (iii) a larger share of alternative energy from biomass, the solar, wind, and other less-polluting energies in the energy need model of the country, and (iv) by establishing advanced technology-based industries in the country for economic growth by controlling the impacts on the environment.
Research on the Effectiveness of College English Teaching Based on 5G Mobile Internet
Authors: Hu Zhiyong
Published: October 2021

Technical assistance for the building of a distant learning environment for learning English is provided by the advancement of information technology and the educational information process. People are still getting used to online teaching method, and it is becoming more widely accepted. This article presents an optimization approach for English teaching mode in colleges based on 5G technology to overcome the constraints of the existing college English teaching mode and to increase the service scope of 5G technology. This optimization technique deviates from standard college English teaching methods and incorporates 5G technology, which significantly enhances the intelligence of English classrooms in colleges. At the same time, the optimization method may improve the quality of English teaching at colleges in a variety of ways, and implement the teaching principle of "teach students according to their ability" in a complete and systematic way. We propose an energy-efficient routing protocol for efficiently transmitting the educational data to the receiver. Also, we employ Bat Optimization Algorithm (BOA) for optimization of the transmission process. process. The students' cognitive abilities are examined. The findings demonstrate that the optimization method may not only overcome the limits of the English model in colleges, but also expand the service reach of 5G technology, therefore improving students' cognitive abilities such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing ability in various dimensions.
The role of micro-implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) in clinical orthodontics — a literature review
Authors: Chuang Yun-Hsuan , Chen Jen-Hsuan , Ho Kwok-Hing , Wang Kai-Long , Hsieh Shun-Chu , Chang Heng-Ming
Published: October 2021

A maxillary transverse deficiency is a common craniofacial problem. Rapid palatal expansion (RPE) has been traditionally considered for the treatment of children and young adolescents, but this is not applicable in late adolescents or adults due to the ossification of facial sutures. A surgically assisted rapid palatal expansion (SARPE) was initially advocated for this group of patients, but the surgical procedure is associated with morbidity. As temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have been recently and popularly applied in clinical orthodontics, micro-implant-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) has been employed to facilitate maxillary expansion in skeletally mature patients. There have been various proposed MARPE designs and the outcomes appear promising. The aim of the present article is to discuss the role of MARPE in clinical orthodontics by reviewing its background, design, indications, treatment effects, stability, and limitations in the current literature. The treatment effects of two types of MARPE, bone-borne and tooth-bone-borne (hybrid), will be individually assessed.
Quantitative assessment of interproximal tooth reduction performed as part of Invisalign® treatment in 10 orthodontic practices
Authors: Weir Tony , Shailendran Arun , Kerr Brett , Freer Elissa
Published: October 2021

Background

Interproximal reduction (IPR) is a treatment option for orthodontic space gain. The attainment of prescribed objectives in aligner treatment may require IPR that is accurately performed both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Objective

This study assesses the in vivo accuracy of IPR carried out in 10 orthodontic practices as a method of orthodontic space creation.

Methods

A comparison of proposed and achieved amounts of IPR completed (accuracy), the accuracy of IPR within and between upper and lower dental arches, and the accuracy of IPR within and between posterior and anterior arch segments were performed using 3-dimensional digital study models gained via Align’s® ClinCheck.

Results

The findings indicated that IPR was routinely underperformed by all practices studied. On average, the amount of IPR achieved represented only 44.0% of the total prescribed per tooth in the sample assessed, with a mean discrepancy of 0.16 mm per tooth. There were statistically significant differences only between the overall anterior and posterior groups (p < 0.01) and between maxillary anterior and maxillary posterior groups (p < 0.01); however, these were not clinically significant. Significant differences in IPR performance were noted between different orthodontic practices.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the clinical performance of IPR in 10 orthodontic practices consistently fails to achieve the prescribed amount often by large variations. The effect of this under-performance on clinical outcomes remains to be quantified.
Root Characteristics and Phosphorus Uptake of Maize Seedlings in a Bilayered Soil
Authors: Chassot André , Richner Walter
Published: October 2021

Under temperate climates, no‐tillage results in cooler and denser topsoils than conventional tillage (CT) and in surface accumulation of immobile nutrients. Hence, early growth and functioning of maize (Zea maysL.) roots may be adversely affected. These field conditions were simulated in a controlled environment system, allowing gradients in soil properties between topsoil (0–10 cm) and subsoil (10–50 cm). Combinations of topsoil temperature (Temptop), bulk density (BDtop), and P concentration (Ptop) were applied on maize seedlings grown until the three‐leaf stage. Topsoil bulk density and Temptopacted independently on shoot and root parameters but showed some interactions with PtopAn increase in BDtopcaused a linear decrease in root length, root mass, and the root/shoot ratio; an increase in root diameters in both topsoil and subsoil; and a concentration of roots in the topsoil. This resulted in a greater contribution of the topsoil roots to the nutrient supply of the shoot, as shown by15N labeling. Decreasing Temptopreduced shoot and root growth to a similar extent. High Ptopincreased length, diameter, and topsoil fraction of roots, particularly at high BDtopThere was possibly a trade‐off between the adverse effects of low Temptopand the positive impacts of high Ptopon root growth. Shoot P concentration (Pc) was increased by high Ptopand, to a lesser degree, by increasing BDtopThe temperature of the topsoil had no effect on Pc. It is concluded that in dense, cool soils, particular attention needs to be paid to the P supply of maize seedlings.
Post‐Contract Land Use Effects on Soil Carbon and Nitrogen in Conservation Reserve Grasslands
Authors: Dao Thanh H. , Stiegler James H. , Banks J. C. , Boerngen Laurie B. , Adams Bud
Published: October 2021

Carbon and N changes in highly erodible croplands (HELs) under the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) and the effects of reverting to cultivation in semiarid regions are not well understood. The effects of four transitional production systems [Old World bluestem (Bothriochloa ischaemum L.)‐unfertilized (OWBUF), Old World bluestem‐fertilized (OWBF), conservation‐tillage (CT), and no‐till (NT) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)] on soil C and N were determined in two CRP fields in western Oklahoma. Soil potentially mineralizable C (PMC) and N (PMN) were determined in cores collected before and after the reinitiation of cultivation in 1994 and in 1997. Compared with soils of the same series from adjoining cultivated fields, Old World bluestem (OWB) cover increased soil PMC, primarily in the 0‐ to 0.1‐m depth of Dalhart (Aridic Haplustalfs) and La Casa‐Aspermont (Typic Paleustolls) soils before 1994. Negative PMN required a high level of fertility management to improve stand productivity. Shift from OWB to wheat increased soil PMC and PMN in the short‐term. No‐till and CT treatments had PMC averaging 8.9 and 9.6 g m−3 d−1 or 23 to 32% higher than those from OWB treatments in the 0‐ to 0.3‐m depth of Dalhart soil. Soil PMC of the CT treatment averaged 7.2 g m−3 d−1 or 73% higher than that of the La Casa‐Aspermont under OWB. The trend of higher mineralizable C and N suggested that post‐CRP conservation practices, in particular NT, contributed to HEL restoration by also controlling the upward movement and loss of CO3‐C, maintaining these lands as C sinks in semiarid regions.
Soil Quality for Sustainable Land Management
Authors: Carter Martin R.
Published: October 2021

Soil quality concepts are commonly used to evaluate sustainable land management in agroecosystems. The objectives of this review were to trace the importance of soil organic matter (SOM) in Canadian sustainable land management studies and illustrate the role of SOM and aggregation in sustaining soil functions. Canadian studies on soil quality were initiated in the early 1980s and showed that loss of SOM and soil aggregate stability were standard features of nonsustainable land use. Subsequent studies have evaluated SOM quality using the following logical sequence: soil purpose and function, processes, properties and indicators, and methodology. Limiting steps in this soil quality framework are the questions of critical limits and standardization for soil properties. At present, critical limits for SOM are selected using a commonly accepted reference value or based on empirically derived relations between SOM and a specific soil process or function (e.g., soil fertility, productivity, or erodibility). Organic matter fractions (e.g., macro‐organic matter, light fraction, microbial biomass, and mineralizable C) describe the quality of SOM. These fractions have biological significance for several soil functions and processes and are sensitive indicators of changes in total SOM. Total SOM influences soil compactibility, friability, and soil water‐holding capacity while aggregated SOM has major implications for the functioning of soil in regulating air and water infiltration, conserving nutrients, and influencing soil permeability and erodibility. Overall, organic matter inputs, the dynamics of the sand‐sized macro‐organic matter, and the soil aggregation process are important factors in maintaining and regulating organic matter functioning in soil.
Economically Optimal Nitrogen Fertilization for Yield and Protein in Hard Red Spring Wheat
Authors: Baker Dustin A. , Young Douglas L. , Huggins David R. , Pan William L.
Published: October 2021

This analysis determines profit‐maximizing N fertilization levels of hard red spring wheat (HRSW) (Triticum aestivum L.) for various wheat prices, N prices, and protein‐based HRSW price premium/discount (P/D) structures for southeastern Washington data. Fertilizer response data consisting of rates of N fertilization (kg ha−1), grain yield (kg ha−1), and grain protein (g kg−1) were used to statistically estimate regression relationships that predicted yield and protein in response to N. Experiments were located near Pullman, WA (550 mm average annual precipitation). All predicted net return maximizing N, protein, and yield levels were within the data range. Increasing P/D incentives for protein increased optimal N, the expected economic result. At the high P/D structures, the P/D structure dominated N and wheat prices in determining optimal N application levels. Overall, net return–maximizing yields varied only modestly with changes in both N and wheat price in this data set. However, in all scenarios, as P/D incentives increased, net return–maximizing N levels were beyond the level that resulted in maximum yield. At the two lowest P/D structures, which provided the lowest reward for protein, it was most profitable to fertilize for slightly less than 140 g kg−1 expected protein. These results indicate that it is not always profitable to use 14% protein as an N fertilization goal.
Estimation of Winter Wheat Evapotranspiration under Water Stress with Two Semiempirical Approaches
Authors: Zhang Yongqiang , Yu Qiang , Liu Changming , Jiang Jie , Zhang Xiying
Published: October 2021

Winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of most important crops in the North China Plain. However, soil water deficit (SWD) often occurs due to lack of precipitation in its growing season. In this study, we introduce two semiempirical approaches, a recharge model and the crop coefficient (Kc)–reference evapotranspiration (ET0) approach, to estimate wheat actual evapotranspiration (ETa) under no SWD and slight and severe SWD conditions. The recharge model allocated ET0 to reference evaporation and reference transpiration as a function of leaf area index. In the model, ETa is limited by soil water content, and crop water extraction for ETa is distributed through the soil profile as exponential functions of soil and root depth. The Kc–ET0 approach regarded ETa under the SWD condition as a logarithmic function of soil water availability. Under no SWD condition, the recharge model simulated 10‐d ETa with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 5.58 mm and a bias of 0.95 mm compared with measurements from a large‐scale weighing lysimeter. The two approaches both estimated seasonal evapotranspiration (ET) well compared with the adjusted ET (from the soil water balance and the recharge model–simulated deep drainage). The recharge model, which simulated the seasonal ET with the RMSE of 27.8 mm and the bias of −8.0 mm, was better than the Kc–ET0 approach (RMSE = 31.7 mm and bias = −33.1 mm). The seasonal pattern of soil water stress coefficient (Ks) showed that there were faster water losses at grain‐filling stage than at other stages.
Utility of Interseeded Winter Cereal Rye in Organic Soybean Production Systems
Authors: Thelen Kurt D. , Mutch Dale R. , Martin Todd E.
Published: October 2021

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] growers using organic production systems have predominately been limited to mechanical cultivation for weed control. Interseeded cover crops such as winter cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) have been used in conventional soybean production systems in conjunction with herbicides to reduce tillage and cultivation operations. The objective of this study was to determine if high soybean planting populations in drill‐planted (19‐cm row) systems or a single mechanical cultivation in row‐planted (76‐cm row) systems could facilitate the use of interseeded rye in organic soybean production systems. Interseeded winter cereal rye decreased soybean grain yield in 2 of 3 yr in the drill‐planted system by 22 and 17%, respectively, and in all 3 yr of the row‐planted system by 23, 27, and 23%, respectively. Moisture stress from the interseeded rye was a predominate factor in soybean grain yield reduction. In 2000, the soybean planting population was inversely correlated with late‐season biomass of interseeded rye. However, during the drier years of 2001 and 2002, increasing soybean planting density did not significantly reduce late‐season biomass of interseeded rye. The interseeded rye reduced late‐season weed biomass in both the drill‐planted and row systems in 2001. Removal of the interseeded rye with mechanical cultivation in the row system when the soybean was at the V4 growth stage was ineffective in 2000 but increased soybean grain yield by 1142 and 746 kg ha−1, respectively, in 2001 and 2002. These results suggest that some means of controlling winter cereal rye growth is necessary for effective management across a range of precipitation levels.
Memperkaya Pemahaman Alkitab dengan Perspektif Kepercayaan Lain: Interpretasi Sosio-Retorik Roma 2:12–16
Authors: Surbakti Pelita Hati
Published: October 2021

AbstractTaking account of contexts in hermeneutics and further theological works is interesting. Archie C.C. Lee, when developing cross-textual hermeneutics, stated that the knowledge about context could enrich the understanding of the biblical text. For him, this proposition also applies if the context is a cultural-belief outside Christianity. The reason is because God is the God of history, so that God is and continues to work in all human civilizations, including in cultural-beliefs that are often considered pagans. However, reasoning derived from biblical texts is rarely proposed. This article proposes Romans 2:12–16 as an alternative reasoning, using socio-rhetorical interpretation method. Inthis text Paul states that those who are referred to as “those who do not have the Law” (gentiles) actually have the Torah written in their hearts and materialize it in deeds. The finding of this study confi rms Lee’s argument.

AbstrakMempertimbangkan konteks dalam berhermeneutika dan selanjutnya berteologi kian menarik. Archie C.C. Lee, ketika mengembangkan hermeneutika lintas-tekstual, menyatakan bahwa dengan memper-timbangkan konteks bahkan dapat memperkaya pemahaman terhadap teks Alkitab. Bagi dia, dalil ini juga berlaku bila konteksnya adalah kebudayaan-kepercayaan di luar kekristenan. Alasannya adalah karena Allah merupakan Allah atas sejarah, maka Ia juga telah dan terus berkarya dalam seluruh peradaban manusia, termasuk dalam kebudayaan-kepercayaan yang kerap dinilai kafir. Namun, alasan yang bersumber dari teks Alkitab jarang diusulkan. Melalui tulisan ini saya mengusulkan Roma 2:12–16 sebagai alternatif alasan. Interpretasi sosio-retorik akan digunakan untuk menafsir teks ini. Melalui teks ini Paulus menyatakan bahwa orang yang disebut sebagai “orang-orang yang tidak memiliki Taurat” (kafir) sekalipun ternyata memiliki Taurat yang tertulis dalam hatinya, dan mereka bahkan mampu melakukannya. Temuan kajian ini menegaskan pandangan Lee.
Infestation of wild boar meat from the Eastern Lublin province with Alaria mesocercariae
Authors: STROKOWSKA NATALIA , BEŁKOT ZBIGNIEW , WIŚNIEWSKI JAN , NOWICKI MAREK , A. DIDKOWSKA , ANUSZ KRZYSZTOF , SZKUCIK KRZYSZTOF
Published: October 2021

The study was aimed at assessment of the usefulness of a digestion method, a standard procedure for routine examination of wild boar meat for Trichinella, in detecting the presence of Distomum musculorum suis (DMS) in the population of wild boars from the Eastern Lublin province. The study material included 500 samples collected from the diaphragm pillars of 250 young boars (6-12 months) and 250 boars above one year of age. First, the meat was tested with the digestion method that is a referential procedure for trichinosis detection. Then, the samples in which over ten mesocercariae were found were assessed with an Alaria-Migration Technique (AMT). The digestion method confirmed the presence of Alaria mesocercariae in 42 carcasses of young boars (16.8 %) and 117 samples of animals older than one year (46.8 %). The study showed a diversified intensity of the parasite presence in the carcasses of individual animals. The invasion intensity ranged from 1 to 18 parasites in 50 g of meat in the young animals, and from 1 to 22 larvae in the older individuals. The carcasses of eight young and thirty two older animals contained over 10 parasites per 50 g of the meat, which accounted for 3.2 % and 12.8 % animals per respective age group. AMT analysis also indicated variable intensity of the parasite infestation, amounting to 32-57 mesocercariae in young animals and 31-71 larvae in the older ones. The study demonstrated an almost three times higher efficiency of the AMT method than the digestion method, which made us conclude that the former should be recommended for Alaria detection. The digestion method used for routine detection of Trichinella, despite its lower accuracy in diagnosing Alaria mesocercariae, can be also employed for the detection of DMS in the case of intensive parasite infection. Our study confirmed high prevalence of the parasite among wild boars from the Eastern Lublin Province. We also found that the invasion intensity depended on the animal age and was higher in older individuals. Considering the zoonotic nature of alariosis and its frequency, it poses an increasingly common problem for official veterinarians during the sanitary and veterinary evaluation of wild boar meat.
Comparison of four methods of inducing pseudopregnancy in rabbits
Authors: SYAFRUDDIN SYAFRUDDIN , WAHYUNI SRI , GHOLIB GHOLIB , SIREGAR TONGKU NIZWAN
Published: October 2021

This study was conducted to compare several methods for inducing pseudopregnancy in local rabbits. The study used 25 clinically healthy rabbits of local breeds, aged 1-1.5 years, with a bodyweight of 1.8-2.2 kg. The rabbits were divided into five treatment groups (n = 5): R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5. Each group was given a different treatment. Group R1 was injected intramuscularly with 100 IU PMSG and mated with males three days later, which was followed by an intravenous injection of 75 IU hCG. Pseudopregnancy in group R2 was induced through artificial copulation by inserting a 1 cm long cotton bud into vaginal lumen at 5 a.m. Pseudopregnancy in group R3 was induced using 50 IU hCG intramuscularly. Group R4 was injected intravenously with 5 g GnRH and then intramuscularly with 100 IU PMSG and three days later with 75 IU hCG. Blood samples were collected on days 2, 4, 6, and 8 for estrogen and progesterone measurement, whereas an ovarian histological observation of all groups was performed on day 8. The results show that the highest concentration of estrogen was obtained in group R2, which was significantly different from the other groups (P <0.05), but the difference in examination time was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the concentration of progesterone in all groups fluctuated at various times of the day. Progesterone concentrations were higher in group R5, in which pseudopregnancy was induced with PMSG and hCG. Group R5 showed a significant difference (P <0.05) with R2, R3, and R4, but the difference with the positive control group (R1) was not significant (P > 0.05). The numbers of corpora lutea in groups R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5 were, respectively, 6.87 ± 1.58, 6.22 ± 2.71, 6.74 ± 1.94, 5.98 ± 2.04, and 8.8 ± 1.90, and the largest diameter was obtained in R5 (1.65 ± 0.37 mm). In conclusion, the best method of inducing pseudopregnancy in local rabbits is the administration of PMSG and hCG.
An ecohydraulic-based expert system for optimal management of environmental flow at the downstream of reservoirs
Authors: Sedighkia Mahdi , Datta Bithin , Abdoli Asghar , Moradian Zahra
Published: October 2021

Linking ecohydraulic modeling and reservoir operation optimization is a requirement for robust management of the environmental degradations at the downstream of the reservoirs. The present study proposes and evaluates an ecohydraulic-based expert system to optimize environmental flow at the downstream of the reservoirs. Three fuzzy inference systems including physical habitat assessment, water quality assessment and combined suitability assessment were developed based on the expert panel method. Moreover, water temperature and dissolved oxygen were simulated by the coupled particle swarm optimization (PSO)–adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system. Three evolutionary algorithms including PSO, differential evolution algorithm (DE) and biogeography-based optimization were applied to optimize the environmental flow regime. A fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution was applied to select the best evolutionary algorithm to assess environmental flow. Based on the results in the case study, the proposed method provides a robust framework for simultaneous management of environmental flow and water supply. DE was selected as the best algorithm to optimize environmental flow. The optimization system was able to balance habitat losses, storage loss and water supply loss that might reduce negotiations between the stakeholders and environmental managers in the reservoir management.
Menir de Fontelo (Armamar, Viseu) Primeira notícia
Authors: Gomes Mário Varela , Sousa Orlando
Published: October 2021

We bring to light the discovery of a new tall menhir, currently laid on the ground, away from its primitive erection site, in Vale de Naçarães, southwest Fontelo village (Armamar, Viseu) allowing some considerations. It is a monolith sculpted with local granitic rock, subcylindrically shaped, but presenting pointed extremities, measuring 5.32 m long and 1.18 m in maximum width. The exposed surface shows three engraved cup-marks, one near the top and two paired on the mesial volume, as well as at the central area four large pecked concentric circles, containing on its inside a fifth circle, smaller and not centred with the larger ones. Other cup-marks were detected, but all the engravings are much eroded and were possibly made when the menhir was already down. This kind of monuments was probably built in the 5th millennium B.C., when the first passage graves appear in the region. The large dimensions of this monolith, when erected allowed his viewing from a far distance thus ordaining the surrounding space. The authors propose that this menhir to be re-erected and signalised through explanatory board on his historical and archaeological importance.
Las Estatuas Galaico Lusitanas en posición de parada I. Distribución espacial, emplazamientos y epigrafia asociada
Authors: Ríos González Sergio
Published: October 2021

The statues of warriors are one of the most prominent examples of the Castro culture in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula. Notable in this category is a series of sculptures depicting the same iconographic motif: standing male, looking straight ahead, carrying a shield on the front. This paper, which is the first part of an integral research about this sculptures, studies their distribution and location as well as the inscriptions that are carved in some of them. Our analysis shows that these sculptural pieces are not found everywhere but in some specific sites within the old conventus bracarensis territory. Most of those locations are associated to heterogeneous settlements, but some others cannot be associated to inhabited areas. In this latter case, the sculptures could have been linked to key points in the territory (crossroads, hills, relevant piks, etc). Finally, engraved inscriptions seem concurrent with their corresponding sculptures, so this is a significant clue for the chronology of this unique statues of warriors.
Augmenting Traditional Support Groups for Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Using Instagram: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study
Authors: Malik Faisal S , Lind Cara , Duncan Sarah , Mitrovich Connor , Pascual Michael , Yi-Frazier Joyce P
Published: October 2021

Background

In-person support groups have been shown to benefit adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) by helping to decrease perceived diabetes burden and improving knowledge related to chronic disease management. However, barriers exist to participation in traditional support groups, including the timing and location of meetings and resources needed to attend. Adolescents are increasingly utilizing online support groups, which may provide solutions to some of the challenges faced when implementing in-person support groups.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a hybrid support group model where traditional in-person support groups were augmented with Instagram participation between monthly support group sessions for adolescents with T1D.

Methods

Participants (13-18 years old with T1D for ≥6 months) were asked to post photos each week for 3 months based on predetermined topics related to diabetes management. At the end of each month, participants attended an in-person support group to discuss their photos using the Photovoice method. Feasibility was assessed through enrollment and retention, number of Instagram posts, poststudy questionnaire, and a template analysis of the focus groups.

Results

Of 24 eligible participants, 16 (67%) enrolled in the study, with 3 dropping out prior to support group participation. The number of photos posted over 3 months ranged from 14 to 41. Among the 11 participants who completed a follow-up questionnaire, the majority of participants (6/11, 55%) reported that they very much enjoyed participating in the hybrid support group, and more than three-quarters (9/11, 82%) of participants reported that they “related to the photos posted.” Over half of participants (8/11, 73%) reported “learning something new from the photos posted,” which arose from sharing knowledge and experiences related to navigating the common challenges of diabetes management. Additionally, the use of Instagram posts helped facilitate peer discussions during the in-person support groups.

Conclusions

The novel combination of using Instagram to augment traditional in-person support groups was feasible and acceptable to adolescents with T1D. The overall satisfaction with the hybrid support group model, combined with the observed engagement with peers between support group sessions over social media, suggests that a hybrid support group model may have the potential to provide more pronounced benefits to adolescents than in-person meetings alone. Future research should investigate the use of social media as part of the support group model and examine the potential improvement of self-esteem, benefit-finding, and social support using validated tools in adolescents with diabetes.
A Mobile Health Salt Reduction Intervention for People With Hypertension: Results of a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Payne Riches Sarah , Piernas Carmen , Aveyard Paul , Sheppard James P , Rayner Mike , Albury Charlotte , Jebb Susan A
Published: October 2021

Background

A high-salt diet is a risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease; therefore, reducing dietary salt intake is a key part of prevention strategies. There are few effective salt reduction interventions suitable for delivery in the primary care setting, where the majority of the management and diagnosis of hypertension occurs.

Objective

The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of a complex behavioral intervention to lower salt intake in people with elevated blood pressure and test the trial procedures for a randomized controlled trial to investigate the intervention’s effectiveness.

Methods

This feasibility study was an unblinded, randomized controlled trial of a mobile health intervention for salt reduction versus an advice leaflet (control). The intervention was developed using the Behavior Change Wheel and comprised individualized, brief advice from a health care professional with the use of the SaltSwap app. Participants with an elevated blood pressure recorded in the clinic were recruited through primary care practices in the United Kingdom. Primary outcomes assessed the feasibility of progression to a larger trial, including follow-up attendance, fidelity of intervention delivery, and app use. Secondary outcomes were objectively assessed using changes in salt intake (measured via 24-hour urine collection), salt content of purchased foods, and blood pressure. Qualitative outcomes were assessed using the think-aloud method, and the process outcomes were evaluated.

Results

A total of 47 participants were randomized. All progression criteria were met: follow-up attendance (45/47, 96%), intervention fidelity (25/31, 81%), and app use (27/31, 87%). There was no evidence that the intervention significantly reduced the salt content of purchased foods, salt intake, or blood pressure; however, this feasibility study was not powered to detect changes in secondary outcomes. Process and qualitative outcomes demonstrated that the trial design was feasible and the intervention was acceptable to both individuals and practitioners and positively influenced salt intake behaviors.

Conclusions

The intervention was acceptable and feasible to deliver within primary care; the trial procedures were practicable, and there was sufficient signal of potential efficacy to change salt intake. With some improvements to the intervention app, a larger trial to assess intervention effectiveness for reducing salt intake and blood pressure is warranted.

Trial Registration

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 20910962; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN20910962
A Mobile Health Salt Reduction Intervention for People With Hypertension: Results of a Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Payne Riches Sarah , Piernas Carmen , Aveyard Paul , Sheppard James P , Rayner Mike , Albury Charlotte , Jebb Susan A
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

A high-salt diet is a risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease; therefore, reducing dietary salt intake is a key part of prevention strategies. There are few effective salt reduction interventions suitable for delivery in the primary care setting, where the majority of the management and diagnosis of hypertension occurs.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of a complex behavioral intervention to lower salt intake in people with elevated blood pressure and test the trial procedures for a randomized controlled trial to investigate the intervention’s effectiveness.

METHODS

This feasibility study was an unblinded, randomized controlled trial of a mobile health intervention for salt reduction versus an advice leaflet (control). The intervention was developed using the Behavior Change Wheel and comprised individualized, brief advice from a health care professional with the use of the SaltSwap app. Participants with an elevated blood pressure recorded in the clinic were recruited through primary care practices in the United Kingdom. Primary outcomes assessed the feasibility of progression to a larger trial, including follow-up attendance, fidelity of intervention delivery, and app use. Secondary outcomes were objectively assessed using changes in salt intake (measured via 24-hour urine collection), salt content of purchased foods, and blood pressure. Qualitative outcomes were assessed using the think-aloud method, and the process outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 47 participants were randomized. All progression criteria were met: follow-up attendance (45/47, 96%), intervention fidelity (25/31, 81%), and app use (27/31, 87%). There was no evidence that the intervention significantly reduced the salt content of purchased foods, salt intake, or blood pressure; however, this feasibility study was not powered to detect changes in secondary outcomes. Process and qualitative outcomes demonstrated that the trial design was feasible and the intervention was acceptable to both individuals and practitioners and positively influenced salt intake behaviors.

CONCLUSIONS

The intervention was acceptable and feasible to deliver within primary care; the trial procedures were practicable, and there was sufficient signal of potential efficacy to change salt intake. With some improvements to the intervention app, a larger trial to assess intervention effectiveness for reducing salt intake and blood pressure is warranted.

CLINICALTRIAL

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 20910962; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN20910962