bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between non-clinically apparent liver fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension in Hispanic patients
Authors: Kalas M Ammar , Khatab Yacoub , Galura Gian , Alkhateeb Haider , Mukherjee Debabrata , Garcia Hernando , Zuckerman Marc , Nickel Nils
Published: July 2022

Background:Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a deadly cardiopulmonary disease with multi-organ involvement including impaired liver function. Liver dysfunction in PAH is poorly understood but significantly associated with morbidity and mortality. Hispanics have a significantly higher prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and evidence of more advanced disease in comparison to other ethnic groups. The clinical impact of NAFLD in Hispanic PAH patients is unknown. We aimed to investigate the impact of a validated scoring system, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis (NFS) score, to predict the degree of liver fibrosis in a Hispanic PAH population and its relationship to hemodynamics, functional class, and outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review of all treatment naïve Hispanic patients with group I WHO pulmonary hypertension (PH) at a single academic center between February 2016 and March 2021 was performed. Patients with history of substance or alcohol abuse, non-group I WHO PH, pre-existent liver disease, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation, thyroid disease, and warfarin use were excluded from the study. The diagnosis of group I WHO PH was determined by cardiac catheterization after the exclusion of other etiologies. NFS scores were calculated for each patient and correlated with functional capacity, hemodynamics, NT-proBNP, and survival.Results:A total of 96 Hispanic patients were included in our study. The median age of patients in our cohort was 49 (IQR 15) and 69% of our cohort were females. Higher NFS scores indicating advanced hepatic fibrosis (F3-F4) were found to correlate with elevated right-sided cardiac filling pressures, elevated levels of NT-proBNP, lower functional capacity, and worse 5-year survival rates. Conclusion:In Hispanic patients with PAH, NFS scores correlate with the degree of right sided pressure overload. In addition, advanced fibrosis scores were independently associated with lower 5-year survival rates and added prognostic information to other established risk parameters in PAH. This study suggests that screening for liver disease in this vulnerable patient population can aid in earlier detection and possible intervention, thus leading to potential improvement in survival rates.
A new family of eukaryotic and bacterial deubiquitinases spreading and diversifying through transposons and horizontal gene transfer
Authors: Erven Ilka , Abraham Elena , Hermanns Thomas , Baumann Ulrich , Hofmann Kay
Published: July 2022

Several distinct families of eukaryotic deubiquitinases (DUBs) regulate various aspects of ubiquitin signaling. Apart from one metalloenzyme family, six classes of eukaryotic papain-fold cysteine proteases are known to have DUB activity. A seventh cysteine-based DUB class is found in intracellular bacteria, which use DUB effectors to evade the ubiquitin-based defense response. Here, we report on the presence of an additional DUB class broadly distributed in eukaryotes and several bacteria. So far, the only known members of this family are the large tegument proteins of α/β/γ herpesviruses, which act as relatively unspecific deubiquitinases and deneddylases attached to the outer face of the viral capsid. By using a bioinformatical screen, we identified distant homologs of this family in transposons of vertebrates and invertebrates, in agaricomycete fungi, insects, nematodes, cnidaria, protists and selected intracellular bacteria. Members of this VTD (Viral tegument-like DUB) family use an atypical Cys-Asp-His catalytic triad to cleave ubiquitin chains. Some activities resemble the viral tegument DUBs in preferring K48-linked ubiquitin chains and also cleaving NEDD8, while other members are highly specific for K6- or K63-linked ubiquitin chains. Judging by the crystal structures of K48- and K6-specific members, the subfamilies differ considerably in their ubiquitin recognition mode. Our analyses suggest that this deubiquitinase family evolved from YopT/HopN-like non-DUB proteases and was co-opted early by DNA transposons, helping the spread of this family. In several independent events, the deubiquitinase domain of these transposons was ‘domesticated’ by various taxa, giving rise e.g. to the Drosophila male sterile (3)76Ca gene and several nematode genes with male-specific expression.
Effects of temperature on soil geochemical properties and accumulation of heavy metals in Brassica napus
Authors: Lee Sujung , Kim Kyoung-Woong
Published: July 2022

The global surface temperature is predicted to increase by 1.0°C to 5.7°C by the end of the twenty-first century from the Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, but the effects of higher temperatures on soil properties and heavy metal accumulation in plants are unclear. To investigate the effects of soil temperature on soil geochemical properties and the accumulation of heavy metals in plants, we grew rapeseeds (Brassica napus) in pots filled with contaminated field soil at four different temperatures (22.5, 22.9, 23.7, and 24.6°C) in a controlled growth chamber. The concentration of heavy metals in the rapeseed samples at different temperatures showed a positive partial correlation coefficient with the soil temperatures. The order of partial correlation coefficients was Zn (0.50) > Cd (0.21) > Cu (0.19) > As (0.15) > Pb (0.13). However, only the Zn concentration in rapeseed showed a significant moderate positive correlation (r = 0.50, p < 0.01) with soil temperature. In terms of soil properties, soil pH positively correlated (r = 0.49, p < 0.01), whereas the cation exchange capacity (CEC) negatively correlated (r = -0.55, p < 0.001) with soil temperatures. These results suggest that increasing soil temperatures affect the plant metabolisms and soil geochemical properties and enhance the soil-to-plant transfer of heavy metals. Therefore, future global warming may lead to unforeseen losses in crop productivity and pollutant accumulation, consequently resulting in detrimental effects on the health of animals and human beings.
A comparative study of stoma-related complications from diverting loop ileostomy or colostomy after colorectal surgery
Authors: Kumano Koichiro , Kitaguchi Daichi , Owada Yohei , Kinoshita Eiki , Moue Shoko , Furuya Kinji , Ohara Yusuke , Enomoto Tsuyoshi , Oda Tatsuya
Published: July 2022

Purpose
Even though minor, stoma-related complications significantly impact quality of life, they are often excluded from clinical analyses that compare short-term postoperative outcomes of loop ileostomy (LI) and loop colostomy (LC). This study compares stoma-related complications between LI and LC after rectal resection, including minor complications, and discusses the characteristics of diverting stoma (DS) types.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted in patients who underwent DS construction after rectal resection. Data on patient background and postoperative short-term outcomes, including stoma-related complications and morbidity after stoma closure, were collected and compared between LI and LC groups. Morbidities of all severity grades were targeted for analysis.
Results
A total of 47 patients (27 LI, 20 LC) underwent DS construction following rectal resection. Overall stoma-related complications, incidence of skin irritation, high-output stoma, and outlet obstruction were found to be significantly higher in the LI group. In addition, high-output stoma and outlet obstruction were absent in the LC group. Regarding morbidity after stoma closure, operation times and surgical site infections were significantly higher in the LC group while anastomotic leakage after DS closure occurred (2 cases; 15%) in the LC group but not the LI group.
Conclusion
Because stoma-related complications were found to be significantly higher in the LI group, and even these minor complications may impair patient’s QOL, early LI closure is recommended. For LC, stoma-related morbidities are lower but post-closure leakage is a calculated risk.
Coral distribution and diversity in Sakiyamawan–Amitoriwan nature conservation area of Iriomote Island in Japan
Authors: Shimokawa Shinya , Murakami Tomokazu , Kohno Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2022

Sakiyama and Amitori bays of Iriomote Island in Japan are adjacent, but their coral distributions differ considerably. This study investigates the differences in coral distribution and diversity between both bays from a diversity index and intermediate disturbance hypothesis (IDH) views. In Amitori Bay, tabular and branching corals dominate the mouth and inner parts of the bay, respectively. Coral diversity is the maximum in the intermediate part of the bay, realizing IDH. In Sakiyama Bay, branching and massive corals dominate the reef edge and the coast sides of the bay’s intermediate part, respectively. Coral diversity is the maximum in the reef edge part of the bay, and IDH is not realized. The difference in the soil inflow and the geographical characteristics between both bays significantly influences the coral distribution and diversity between both bays.
Tiltable objective microscope visualizes discrimination of static and dynamic head movement originates at hair cells
Authors: Tanimoto Masashi , Watakabe Ikuko , Higashijima Shin-ichi
Published: July 2022

Spatio-temporal information on head orientation and movement is fundamental to the sense of balance and motion. Hair cells (HCs) in otolith organs of the vestibular system transduce linear acceleration, including head tilt and vibration. Here, we build a tiltable objective microscope in which an objective lens and specimen tilt together. In vivo Ca2+ imaging of all utricular HCs and ganglion neurons during 360° static tilt and vibration in pitch and roll axes visualizes the direction- and modality-selective topographic responses in larval zebrafish. We find that head vibration is preferentially received by HCs in a specific region whereas static tilt is preferentially transduced by HCs in the outside region. Spatially ordered direction preference in HCs is consistent with hair-bundle polarity, and is preserved in ganglion neurons through topographic innervation. Together, these results demonstrate that the discrimination of different direction and temporal modalities of head orientation and movement originates at HCs.
A micro-video recommendation system incorporating social connections
Authors: Fang Ting , Wen Bin , Li Yichun , Song Kai , Lin Xiao
Published: July 2022

With the increasing number of micro-video community applications, social media platforms have started to attract more people through their built-in micro-video features. More and more people like to record and share their favorite people or events through micro-videos. The content of micro-videos is very diverse. If we can accurately obtain the preferred character of each user and the degree of preference for that character, we can be considered as being able to obtain the user’s preference more accurately. Therefore, it is necessary to study and implement a micro-video recommendation system. Currently, video-oriented recommendation algorithms mostly start from the following parts: user rating, video text description, video content, etc. The recommendation algorithm that starts with user ratings is similar to the recommendation algorithm of ordinary e-commerce platforms. Most of them will first ask users to rate the videos they have watched, and then find other users who also rate these videos and whose scores are closer to those of the target user, as the nearest neighbors of the target user, so as to obtain the user-item similarity matrix. The research goal of this paper is to design and implement a micro-video recommendation system that integrates social relationships in order to solve the current problem of micro-video information overload on social platforms, which makes it difficult for users to find videos that meet their preferences. We can get users’ preferences for video content by recognizing their portraits and their weights, and get their nearest neighbors and making video recommendations by improving the social relationship similarity, familiarity, and interest similarity between users. And through several experiments and a series of comparative experiments, it was confirmed that the algorithm has an advantage in the recommendation accuracy rate of the algorithm has some advantages.
New insights into the anomaly genesis of frequency selection method: supported by numerical modeling and case studies
Authors: Yang Tian Chun , Gao Qiang Shan , Li Hao , Fu Guo Hong , Hussain Yawar
Published: July 2022

The frequency selection method (FSM) is the further development of audio frequency telluric electricity method (TEFM), however there are still ongoing debates on the involving mechanisms leading to anomaly genesis. Therefore, the present study intends to explore this using 2D forward modeling of magnetotelluric (MT) sounding, and practical applications of FSM on three Chinese case studies in karst and granitic settings. In the first stage, the profile curves and pseudo-section of apparent resistivity (ρs) and horizontal electric field component (Ey) in Transverse Magnetic field (TM) mode are obtained by forward calculation. As a result, the static shift in ρs is observed over the near-surface inhomogeneities, as documented in literature. Additionally, the profile curves of Ey showed an obvious static shift in the rectangular coordinate system (i.e., the curve rises with the increase in frequency) which is a well-known phenomenon. The pseudo-sections of Ey also showed static shift characteristics at the horizontal position above the anomaly, referred to as "noodles phenomenon". The FSM results obtained from case studies related to the groundwater and low resistivity clay-filled karst body identification. The △V section curves and pseudo-section showed a significant low potential, and a "noodles phenomenon" respectively, above the low resistive anomalous body. These abnormal characteristics of △V are the basis for delineating the horizontal position of groundwater aquifer applying FSM. It is concluded that the anomaly of FSM is the reflection of the static shift in MT and hence, the FSM can be categorized as a "static shift method". Therefore, this inspired us that the static shift feature of surface Ey component can be utilized to explore near-surface geological bodies such as clay-filled or water-filled cavities.
Peripheral metabolites of the kynurenine pathway are decreased in serious mental illness and show phase-specific differences in bipolar disorder patients
Authors: Brum Murielle , Nieberler Matthias , Kehrwald Christopher , Knopf Katrin , Brunkhorst-Kanaan Nathalie , Etyemez Semra , Allers Kelly A , Bittner Robert A. , Slattery David A. , McNeill Rhiannon V. , Reif Andreas , Kittel-Schneider Sarah
Published: July 2022

Background
Previous studies have linked disturbances in the kynurenine pathway, responsible for the main catabolism of tryptophan and a key regulator of the immune system, to mental disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD) or schizophrenia (SCZ). However, the relationship between tryptophan catabolism and the presentation of psychiatric disorders seems to be rather complex, as up to now results have mostly been inconsistent or even contradictory. In this study, we measured plasma levels of tryptophan catabolites (TRYCATs: tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid) in a sample of in total 175 participants consisting of individuals suffering from an acute disease episode seeking inpatient treatment as well as healthy controls (HC) to investigate whether individual metabolites could serve as a biomarker for differential diagnosis.
Results
Significantly decreased levels of tryptophan, kynurenine, kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid were found in the patient group as a whole. This was mainly driven by the difference between BD patients and HC. Specifically, the manic symptom domain in manic and mixed phase BD patients displayed significantly lower kynurenine and kynurenic acid levels. We could not find significant differences between the psychiatric disorders disqualifying TRYCATs as biomarkers for differential diagnosis. None of the assessed potential demographic or pharmaceutical confounding factors revealed a significant correlation to TRYCAT concentrations. Upon reaching (partial) remission, the changes in TRYCAT levels partially normalized in the patient group.
Conclusions
Our data suggests an involvement of the kynurenine pathway in mental disorders, especially BD. Although we cannot prove a causal relationship, underlying mechanisms might include pro-inflammatory states in the central nervous system and/or increased neurotoxicity contributing to the immune assault. Also considering the manifold, but inconsistent previous analyses regarding TRYCAT concentrations in psychiatric disease, larger, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies will be needed for detangling the mystery about the role the tryptophan catabolism plays in the pathophysiology of mental disorders and for answering the burning question if it might constitute a possible therapeutic target in the future.
Blockchain Based Framework for COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery using Smart Contracts
Authors: Rai Srinidhi , B Shamantha Rai , P. Rithesh Pakkala , Rai Prakhyath
Published: July 2022

A blockchain is a continuously expanding list of documents known as blocks that are connected together via cryptography. A smart contract is a computer program that executes itself in accordance with the terms of a contract. In Traditional vaccine delivery systems, vaccine delivery information is not visible to all the supply chain entities, thereby prone to data tampering. Thus, transparency is the biggest concern in this system. In the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rapid launch of a vaccine and the implementation of a worldwide vaccination campaign is crucial, but their success depends on the availability of an operable and transparent distribution chain that all necessary stakeholders can assess. In the proposed work, we show how blockchain technology may be used to enable transparent tracing of COVID-19 vaccination registration, storage, and distribution and self-reporting of side effects by constructing a prototype using smart contracts.
Combined artificial tear medications in the treatment of patients with dry eye syndrome
Authors: Brzhesky V. V.
Published: July 2022

In the treatment of patients with dry eye syndrome, the main measure is tear replacement therapy, the most accessible for practicing physicians. It is understandably based on the instillations of artificial tear medications, whose number is steadily growing. In Russia, there are 47 registered medications of this type. Considering the set of requirements for artificial tear medications (which are expected to moisturize the ocular surface, stop the hyperosmolarity of the tear film, ensure osmo-protection and reduce inflammation in the tissues of the ocular surface, as well as activate their reparative regeneration), the most promising medications are those containing two or more active ingredients. One such medication is Oftolik ® medium-viscosity tear substitute that contains a combination of 1.4 % polyvinyl alcohol and 0.6 % polyvinylpyrrolidone. The moisturizing effect of these polymers is complemented by reparative regeneration stimulation (polyvinyl alcohol) and the production of endogenous interferon (polyvinylpyrrolidone). Multiple studies confirmed high clinical efficacy of the medication for the treatment of patients with the main pathogenetic types of dry eye syndrome, as well as its syndromal and secondary symptomatic forms (computer visual syndrome) and revealed. As these effects are achieved with no significant side effects, we can recommend Oftolik® and its preservative-free form Oftolik BK ® for wide clinical use.
State of the art in acute glaucoma attack predisposition issue
Authors: Bakunina N. A.
Published: July 2022

Angle-closure glaucoma diagnosis verification is based on biometric indicators and computer tomography data of the anterior segment of the eye. However, not every patient with a narrow angle and a shellow anterior chamber develops an acute attack. The review summarizes the literature data on risk factors for an acute glaucoma attack and lists additional parameters to be considered when examining patients with angle-closure glaucoma to identify a predisposition to an acute glaucoma attack.
Clinical and functional characteristics of pseudophakic myopia in children after congenital cataract extraction in infancy
Authors: Katargina L. A. , Kruglova T. B. , Mamykina A. S. , Egiyan N. S. , Arestova N. N.
Published: July 2022

One of the serious challenges facing surgeons after congenital cataract extraction with IOL implantation in infancy is unplanned refractive results revealed in the long-term period, including the cases of myopia higher than 3.0 D in approximately 50 %.

   Purpose. The study aimed to evaluate the clinical and functional condition of the eyes in children with moderate to high myopia.

   Material and methods. Our study included a total of 33 patients (61 eyes) with pseudophakia, of which 16 (26 eyes) developed moderate (12 eyes) or high (14 eyes) myopia at the age of 5 to 15 years. Parameters of the anterior and posterior eye segments were evaluated using Galilei Dual Scheimpflug Analyzer and Optical Coherence Tomography RS-3000 Advance 2, and the axial length using Optical Biometer Al-Scan.

   Results. The central corneal thickness (CCT) was found considerably above the norm (up to 580 ± 35 pm) in most cases of pseudophakic myopia (72.2 %). Anterior chamber depth in children (4.07 ± 0.39 mm) was equal to that in adults with pseudophakia. Astigmatism and axial length in children with highmyopia significantly exceeded those in children with moderate myopia (3.5 and 1.88 D; 23.57 ± 1.31 and 25.04 ± 1.90 mm, respectively), while choroidal thickness and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were much lower (268 and 181 pm; 0.1 and 0.3, respectively). There were no variations in spherical equivalent between different axial length in high and moderate myopia.

   Conclusion. Taken together these results suggest that with the increase of astigmatism axial length elongated and high myopia developed in children with pseudophakia. Choroidal thickness declined due this process and may be a cause of poor functional outcome. Sufficient CCT opens possibilities for refractive surgery in those patients to improve visual outcomes.
Mathematical modeling of fluid movement inside the eyeball during intravitreal injection
Authors: Lipatov D. V. , Skladchikov S. A. , Savenkova N. P. , Novoderezkin V. V. , Vysikailo Ph. I.
Published: July 2022

Intravitreal injections show an avalanche-like growth the world over.

   Purposes: 1) create a mathematical model of the eyeball and fluid movement inside the eye, assuming the simplified structure of the vitreous body (without tanks); 2) estimate the time span when the drug substance remains in the cavity of the vitreous body until it is completely washed out, depending on the injection site; 3) observe and evaluate the path of drug movement in the vitreous body cavity; 4) evaluate the variation of time when the drug is located in the vitreous body cavity, depending on the presence or absence of complete detachment of the vitreous body.

   Results. If the drug is injected closer to the center of the eyeball, the time when it is located in the vitreous is increased as compared to parietal injection. With full vitreous body detachment, the location time of the drug increases as compared to its normal location, which favorably affects the prolongation of the therapeutic effect.

   Conclusion. As this is a pilot study, many parameters are approximate, so the results obtained cannot be mechanically extrapolated to the live human eye subjected to intravitreal injections, due to the complexity of the processes occurring in eyeball.
Comparison of signs of choroidal melanoma spreading into the retina according to optical coherenct tomography and pathomorphological studies
Authors: Stoyukhina A. S. , Nechesnyuk S. Yu.
Published: July 2022

The most common factors determining the unfavorable choroidal melanoma (CM) prognosis are: patient's advanced age, tumor size, epithelioid histotype, developed vascularization and extrascleral tumor extension. Also, there are indications ofan unfavorable vital prognosis when hemorrhages appear in the tumor area. There are suggestions that retinal changes detected by optical coherence tomography (OCT) are comparable to the results of morphological studies, and the structure of the choroid determined by EDI-OCT (enhanced depth imaging) matches its morphological structure.

   Purpose: to assess the possibility of in vivo detection of morphological signs of CMspreading into the retina according to OCT data.

   Materials and methods. 5 CM patients aged 55.20 ± 10.57 who subsequently underwent primary enucleation, were tested by OCT that showed the maximum CM elevation of 4.85 ± 1.76 mm, and the maximum diameter of13.09 ± 4.14 mm.  Results. The correlation of tomographic and histological picture was obtained in the following signs: destruction of Bruch's membrane, presence of hyperreflective changes at the level of retinal pigment epithelium (deposits and extended areas of its thickening), photoreceptors changes, neuroepithelial detachment, the intraretinal cavities. A partial correlation took place for signs of subretinal transudate and infiltration of the outer layers of the retina. No correlation was obtained for the signs of infiltration of inner retina layers and the inner limiting membrane rupture with CM dissemination on a retinal surface. The cases of divergent interpretation between OCT and morphological studies are as­ sociated with the presence of fibrosis foci due to a formation of superficial tumor necrosis and foci of proliferation of the pigment epithelium with its dissemination into the inner retina layers.

   Conclusion. Comparison of OCT signs ofM C with pathomorphological data obtained from 5 enucleated eyes made it possible to expand the interpretation of OCT signs of CM spreading beyond the Bruch's membrane with the forma­tion of tumor growth zones in the retina.
Effect of early excision of a burn wound on the activity of selected enzymes in pig serum
Authors: ALEKSIEWICZ ROMAN , LUTNICKI KRZYSZTOF , TUREK WIKTOR
Published: July 2022

Thermal stimuli acting on the skin can cause burn wounds. Clinical and experimental studies suggest a beneficial effect of the necrectomy of post burn necrosis in the hyperacute phase and in the acute phase (during the initial period of burn disease). Heat stroke causes hypovolemic shock and influences the energetic status of the liver, which is the main organ responsible for energy production and energy storage. Determination of the activity of indicator enzymes in serum makes it possible to assess the clinical condition of animals. A total of 25 White Large Landrace pigs of both sexes weighing 50 kg (± 2 kg) were used for the study. Burns were made with a software-controlled heating plate on a precisely defined contact surface of 1% of body surface. This resulted in a burn rate of 30% (± 2%) of the body surface with a lesion range between grades III and IIb. Animals from each experimental group were subjected to an infraclavicular necrectomy. Blood was collected and analyzed for AlAT, AspAT, LDH, and CK activities. In all groups, a statistically significant (p <0.05) increase in AlAT, AspAT, LDH, and CK activities was observed already 12 hours after the burn, and there was a very high correlation between the activities of parenchymal enzymes AlAT and AspAT. The study has shown an association between the moment of performing burn wound necrectomy and the activity of AlAT, AspAT, LDH, and CK.
Influence of the level of anxiety on the eating behavior of sheep
Authors: Janicka Jacek Sokołowski Kamila , Rozempolska-Rucińska Iwona
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of the anxiety level on the feeding behavior of sheep. Observations were performed on 30 Świniarka sheep kept under uniform environmental conditions in a combined indoor-pasture management system. The behavior of grazing animals was recorded (from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm) for one month during the grazing season. Additionally, when a human (in a daily routine) or a dog (in herding training) appeared in the pasture, the distance that the animals kept from them was measured. The time the sheep took to approach a new object was also measured. A preliminary assessment of their response to an unfamiliar dog made it possible to assign the sheep to two groups: G1 (a low level of anxiety) and G2 (a high level of anxiety). The behaviors of the two groups of animals were significantly different. The timid animals (G2) maintained significantly greater distances, both from the man and the dog, than did the bold animals (G1). The G1 sheep approached a new object significantly sooner. The results indicate a strong influence of the level of anxiety on the feeding behavior of small ruminants. The presence of a stressor in the environment leads to a decrease in feed and water intake time. The results of observations made in the present study can be used in modifying the existing ways of handling sheep so as to increase their welfare.
The use of metabolomics tools in the evaluation of the fattening performance of lambs
Authors: KAHRAMAN MÜCAHİT , DAŞ AYDIN , GÜNGÖREN GÜLŞAH , DAŞ BESİME DOĞAN , YALÇIN HAMZA , KOYUNCU İSMAİL , AKMEŞE ŞÜKRÜ
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to determine the metabolomic characteristics associated with the fattening performance of the Awassi lamb breed under intensive fattening for 90 days. Twenty-four lambs were used in the research. The lambs were divided into two groups according to their fattening performance (good fattening performance, n = 12, and poor fattening performance, n = 12), and their metabolomic properties were evaluated. The differences between the two research groups in the amino acids of alloisoleucine, aspartic acid, histidine, hydroxylysine, isoleucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, valine, and 1-methylhistidine were found to be statistically significant (P ≤ 0.001). Moderately significant negative correlations were found between daily concentrate feed intake and 3-methylhistidine (r = −0.469; P = 0.021), hydroxylysine (r = −0.408; P = 0.048), and serotonin (r= −0.467; P = 0.021); as well as between the average daily weight gain (ADWG) and alloisoleucine (r = −0.528; P = 0.008), 3-methylhistidine (r = −0.440; P = 0.032), and hydroxylysine (r = −0.577; P = 0.003). A moderate positive correlation was found between hydroxyisovalerylcarnitine and ADWG (r = 0.476; P = 0.019), and a negative correlation was found between hydroxyisovalerylcarnitine and the feed conversion ratio (r = −0.430; P = 0.036). Pathway analysis revealed that the most important biological pathway was the phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis pathway. The results of the research reveal the potential for plasma free amino acid and carnitine profiles to be used as candidate biomarkers in the evaluation of fattening performance in lambs.
Performing the Landscape: Orature around Loktak Lake and the Love Story of Khamba Thoibi
Authors:   Department of English, Central University of Karnataka, Gulbarga, India, Rojio Usham
Published: July 2022

The present paper explores the rich system of orature (Ngugi wa Thiong’o, 2007) revolving around Loktak Lake and Moirang. Orature indexed orality as a total system of performance linked to a specific idea of space and time. It emphasizes that the nature of orality has a complete system in its own right. The richness of orature revolving around Loktak and Moirang is immense. The available stories of Moirang in Manipur like Moirang Saiyon or Moirang Kangleirol, including the last episode of Khamba and Thoibi, according to some scholars like E. Mangoljao, A. Khongnang, etc. are believed to have been the incarnations of Panthoibi and Nongpok Ningthou. Today we find the performative traditions or orature revolving around Moirang Kangleirol in varied forms, namely Moirang Sai, Moirang Parva, etc. The paper shall explore the relations between landscape and performative traditions, its aesthetic mysticism revolving around Loktak Lake and Moirang.
The limits of watershed delineation: implications of different DEMs, DEM resolutions, and area threshold values
Authors: Datta Srijon , Karmakar Shyamal , Mezbahuddin Symon , Hossain Mohammad Mozaffar , Chaudhary B. S. , Hoque Md. Enamul , Abdullah Al Mamun M. M. , Baul Tarit Kumar
Published: July 2022

Identifying and demarcating watershed areas provides a basis for designing and planning for water resources. In this study, DEMs-based estimates of watershed characteristics of three rivers of Bangladesh – Halda, Sangu, and Chengi – were derived using eight Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of 30 m, 90 m, and 225 m resolution in the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). We have assessed watershed characteristics concerning DEMs, resolutions, and Area Threshold Values (ATVs). Though the elevation data differed, high correlation values among DEMs and resolutions confirm the negligible effect of elevation in the watershed delineation. However, the slope and watershed delineation vary for different DEMs and resolutions. The 90 m DEMs estimated larger areas for Halda and Chengi and lower perimeter values for all three rivers. In watershed delineation, the area near the mouth and flat terrain did not coincide with DEMs. The common intersected area by DEMs can be used as the focal area of watershed management. ATV ≤ 40 km2 significantly influences sub-basin counts and stream network extraction for these watershed areas. Though watershed size and shape were independent of the different ATVs, the DEM-based watershed delineation process in SWAT needs optimum ATV values to represent the stream network precisely.
A novel sulfur-driven autotrophic denitrification coupled with bio-cathode system for bioelectricity generation and groundwater remediation
Authors: Cheng Jianping , Tang Dai , Tang Zhiguo , Guo Jin
Published: July 2022

This study explored the feasibility of treating wastewater using sulfur-driven autotrophic denitrification (SAD) coupled with the bio-cathode of microbial fuel cell (MFC), focusing on simultaneous bioelectricity generation, denitrification, and desulphurization. A maximum output voltage of 360 mV was obtained with a power generation cycle of 25 h when simulated wastewater with 100.0 mg/L of each -N and S2−-S was employed as the influent in the SAD-BMFC. Compared with solo SAD or MFC, SAD-BMFC obtained a higher -N removal rate (E12 h = 87.7%, E24 h = 100%), and less -N accumulation. S2−-S of the influent was almost completely removed, oxidized to S0-S (88.6–90.2 mg/L) and -S (9.8–11.4 mg/L). The reaction system achieved self-balance of acidity-alkalinity (pH 7.05–7.35). The SAD process was the main pathway for -N removal (80.2%) and a smaller proportion of electrons came from the bio-cathode. This study effectively combined SAD with a bio-cathode system for simultaneous energy harvest and bio-enhanced remediation of groundwater contaminated by both -N and S2−-S.
Investigations of S-nZVI/AC composites for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) elimination: synthesis and application
Authors: Feng Xiujuan , Liu Zengyuan , Liu Shuaijun , Liu Zhihan , Yan Yuelong , Wang Xiaoyi
Published: July 2022

Sulfidated nano zero-valent iron supported by activated carbon (S-nZVI/AC) composites were synthesized via liquid phase reduction method, and then they were used for Cr(VI) elimination. Characterization results showed that Fe0 was the main component, besides, iron oxides and iron sulfides were also detected. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results showed that S-nZVI nanoparticles were homogeneously distributed on the surfaces of AC. The influences of S/Fe ratio, C/Fe ratio, pH value, reaction temperature and co-existed ions (Cl−, SO42−, PO43− and NO3−) on Cr(VI) removal performances were investigated. Furthermore, the corresponding mechanisms were also discussed. The S-nZVI/AC composites exhibited good aging-resistance performances that Cr(VI) removal efficiency still maintained at 83.1% after being sealed in water for seven days, and they also had satisfying cycling stabilities that Cr(VI) removal efficiency only decreased less than 10% after four cycles. The good performances of S-nZVI/AC composites for Cr(VI) removal are attributed to the protection effect of iron sulfides and immobilization effect of AC, making S-nZVI/AC as a promising candidate for Cr(VI) elimination in effluents.
The concept and types of guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections
Authors: Konovalchikov Yaroslav A.
Published: July 2022

Participation in elections is the right of Russian political parties and their duty which they must fulfill in seven years. In the period from 2019 to 2021, 28 political parties were dissolved for non-participation in elections. Therefore, the guarantee of this right is an important issue. The establishment of system of such guarantees contributes to the further development of democratic institutions, broad representation of various groups of the population, and the qualitative development of multiparty system. The purpose of this study is to develop a theory on guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections, to formulate proposals for improving such system.

The scientific novelty of the study is due to the following: the concept of “guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections” was introduced taking into consideration the content of the said right; a classification of guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections — guarantees of the acquisition, implementation and protection — was proposed; the position according to which in Russia there are special guarantees that are absent in the electoral legislation of foreign countries was reasoned; proposals to improve the system of guarantees were formulated. In the present research, the author’s theoretical provisions were formulated, deepening the knowledge on the above-mentioned guarantees, which will allow them to be used as a basis for further development in the field of constitutional and legal science. To achieve the research aims, method of formal logic, formal and legal as well as comparative legal methods were used.

When studying the experience of foreign countries (Serbia, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand, France, Germany) classical guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections were revealed: guarantees of party autonomy, financial guarantees, guarantees of election campaigns and guarantees of publicity, guarantees of control during voting, guarantees of appeal. The study also determined that, in Russia, there are some special guarantees related to the historical and political features of the formation of the national multiparty system, as well as to the need to establish a balance in the interaction of the state and political parties. As a result, proposals were made to improve the system of guarantees of the right of political parties to participate in elections.
Mathematical modeling of memristor resistive switching based on mass transfer full model of oxygen vacancies and ions
Authors: Ebrahim Abdulla H. , Busygin Alexander N. , Udovichenko Sergey Yu.
Published: July 2022

A relatively simple mathematical model of dynamic switching of a memristor has been created based on a fairly complete physical model of the processes of stationary mass transfer of oxygen vacancies and ions, considering their generation, recombination and diffusion in electric field in the “metal-oxide-metal” structure with the dominant transport mechanism of electron tunneling through oxygen vacancies.

The results of numerical simulation of mass transfer of oxygen vacancies along thickness of the oxide layer of the memristor are presented. The distributions of vacancy concentration during their diffusion in an electric field are found, taking into account the processes of generation and recombination with ions, depending on the applied voltage to the electrodes and on the temperature of the memristor. A good coincidence of the volt-ampere characteristics part found as a result of numerical simulation and a series of experiments is obtained.

It is shown that under conditions of more than 600 K memristor temperature, it is possible to neglect the process of ion-vacancy recombination and significantly simplify the procedure for mathematical modeling of memristor resistive switching by eliminating the oxygen mass transfer equation, as well as the recombination term in the stationary equation of oxygen vacancies mass transfer.

The developed mathematical model of memristor dynamic switching, including a system of stationary ordinary differential equations, is designed to simulate the operation of large memristor arrays in neuromorphic computing devices and may be preferable in relation to known circuit models that include a certain set of fitting parameters to match the simulation results with the memristor experimental characteristics.
Implications of the Mechanism of Change for the Decision-making Process in Environmental Protection
Authors: Embros Grzegorz
Published: July 2022

Activities for environmental protection induce the necessity of adopting specific solutions aimed at their facilitation or enhancing their effectiveness. While implementation of new technological solutions seems quite obvious here, the need to develop specific solutions aimed at improving the decision-making process is frequently overlooked. Hence, proper identification of mechanisms that may reduce or significantly impair the effectiveness of these activities or lead to defined side effects is becoming of vital importance. In view of the above, the article will present selected cases which are subject to the mechanisms of change characterized by Neil Postman in Technopol. The first will be a direct reference to the process of generating changes by new technological solutions described by this author. The second, will draw on selected publications by Ulrich Beck and Gernot Böhme dealing with social phenomena or anthropological situations inscribed in that mechanism. The main task will therefore consist in tracing an analogy between the two characterized cases. In particular, the author will make an attempt to analyse the impact of the resulting consequences on the shape and course of the decision-making process, which is the aim of the present study. It seems that the preferences and choices with respect to certain solutions are conditioned by the anthropological profile of the decision-maker, but that at the same time they reciprocally induce his change. This, in turn, has an impact on the way of designing and formulating the principles of conduct in the field of environmental protection.
LA PERSPECTIVA DE GÉNERO EN LA VALORACIÓN DE LA PRUEBA EN PROCEDIMIENTOS LABORALES POR ACOSO
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Romero Rodríguez Sophía , Jaque Reinuaba Macarena ,   Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Prieto Decap Lucas ,   Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Zuleta Yong Jaime ,   Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez
Published: July 2022

El presente artículo pretende abordar la incorporación de la perspectiva de género como una máxima de la experiencia en las sentencias judiciales por acoso laboral. De esta forma, proponemos que se excluyan los sesgos y estereotipos de género que influyen en la forma de analizar el acoso que se produce en un contexto laboral y que finalmente repercuten en las resoluciones dictadas en procesos judiciales que conocen de estas materias. En esta materia y en base a la jurisprudencia nacional analizada, el sesgo de género determina la vulneración de la igualdad ante la ley, afectando los derechos subjetivos de quienes son víctimas de conductas de acoso y que luego son partes en un proceso judicial laboral.
Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): The Legal Frameworks
Authors: Chaisorn Panita
Published: July 2022

Civil-military cooperation (CIMIC) is one of the most crucial factors for a successful humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) operation. It is important to foster the relationship between these two sectors to pursue effective outcomes for the operation. Therefore, a developed mechanism for civilian-military coordination including clear CIMIC frameworks is needed. This paper explores the frameworks/guidelines on CIMIC in HADR issued by three international organizations, namely the United Nations (UN), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The focus of this study will be on the operation at the operational phase. The CIMIC fundamentals and principles of the foreign military sector will be scrutinized. Consequently, the analysis would help identify the essential subjects for policymakers to consider and issue the proper national framework for CIMIC in HADR.
Un Security Council Resolutions in the Legal System: Lesson Learned from Singapore
Authors: Kurniaty Rika , Widagdo Setyo , Audrey Ruslijanto Patricia , Suryokumoro Herman
Published: July 2022

United Nations (UN) Security Council (UNSC) resolutions (UNSCRs) are adopted by a vote of the five permanent members and ten non-permanent members of the UNSC. Each UNSCR is understood to be part of the “primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security” of the UN. The Indonesian government has been encouraged by various parties to make a legal instrument that would enforce the UNSCRs. Such an instrument would serve to bridge and reduce gaps in the rule of law regarding the enforcement of UNSCRs for nations. However, the government of Indonesia faces several challenges in implementing legal instruments for the UNSCRs. This article maintains that it is crucial to study accommodative policies regarding the national enforcement of UNSCRs by considering the example of Singapore. Singapore has special laws that respond to UNSCRs (The UN Act Chapter 339-UN Act). UN Act 339 is the legal umbrella in Singapore for the government’s implementation of UNSCRs. The UN Act is also an attempt by the Singaporean government to carry out its international obligations to the United Nations.
Does Role Stress Explain the Relationship between Adult Attention Deficit and the Operational Performance of Project Managers?
Authors: Coetzer Graeme H.
Published: July 2022

Research suggests that adult attention related disorders and stress cost the US economy approximately $400 billion of lost productivity per annum. This study examines the mediating influence of role stress (RS) on the relationship between adult attention deficit (AAD) and the operational effectiveness of project managers (OEPM). One hundred and twenty actively employed business graduate students each had the opportunity to be a project manager within a project team. Each team member rated the others on their OEPM, completed a self-report measure of RS, and identified a close associate who completed an observer version of the Brown Attention Deficit Scale. Product moment correlations were used to test the hypotheses that AAD, RS and OEPM were associated, and both the Hayes Process and Sobel tests were used to test the hypothesis that RS mediates the relationship between AAD and OEPM. AAD has a positive association with RS and a negative association with OEPM. RS has a negative association with OEPM. RS partially mediates the relationship between AAD and OEPM. Organizations wanting to ensure timely and successful completion of projects need to be aware of the constraining influence of AAD on OEPM and the mediating influence of RS. Interventions and resources that assist disordered project managers to better manage attention challenges, role stress, and the operational aspects of project management may help retain the creative benefits of the disorder while managing the associated operational challenges.