bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Written to Dialogise: Ian McEwan's Atonement and Sweet Tooth
Authors:   , Kehler Barbara
Published: November 2021

In the intertext of Atonement (2001) and Sweet Tooth (2012), McEwan unmasks monological writing and reading processes which destructively deny the individual subject its complexity. Empowering the individual subject to fight its ideological determination, he suggests (literary) possibilities of dialogical involvement to unbind the individual subject into critically thinking its social and historical situatedness. Writing a readerly text of writerly potential which requires the reader’s active participation to become an instrument of dialogue, McEwan introduces two acting writers, Briony Tallis and Tom Haley, who are familiar with intertextual theory and share McEwan’s dialogical approach to the literary text. They critically mediate Briony’s and Serena’s development from monological to dialogical subjectivity by personalising different stages of intertextual theory (Saussure, Bakhtin, Kristeva and Barthes) and its advancement of dialogue and dialogical subjectivity within each protagonist’s literary development. Allowing his readers to observe how Briony Tallis and Tom Haley meticulously write and criticise Briony and Serena, protagonists who initially author but finally write their context when they unlock the critical potential of the intertextual process in dialogising the readerly and the writerly, McEwan provides his readers with a space in which to try their critical potential: reading Atonement and Sweet Tooth and daring to assume the responsibility of dialogical double agency (Barthes and Genette), they might not only become aware of monological and dialogical writing and reading processes but they might join in productively exploring narrative possibilities to dialogise (their) individual subjectivity.
KONSOLIDASI GERAKAN MILENIAL INDONESIA DALAM UPAYA MEMENANGKAN PASANGAN PRABOWO – SANDIAGA UNO DALAM PEMILIHAN UMUM PRESIDEN 2019 DI KABUPATEN SIDOARJO
Authors: Fitriah Lailatul , Hendrarti Dwi Windyastuti Budi
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to determine the tendencies carried out by GMI Sidoarjo in the 2019 presidential election. GMI Sidoarjo is one of the community organizations that acts as a successful team winning the pair of candidates in the 2019 presidential election. This research is descriptive qualitative by using the theory of political participation from Samuel Huntington and Nelson. From the results of the study obtained several results, namely political participation carried out are collective, organized, legal and ineffective. Consolidation is done internally and externally. Then, the form of political participation in conducting elections is carried out with political discussion, outreach, campaigning and vote escort. The winning effort was unsuccessful, so the pair supported by the Indonesian Millennial Movement in Sidoarjo was defeated due to the lack of targeted support in fighting for votes in the 2019 presidential election.
MEDIA DAN POLITIK: STUDI KASUS KONSTRUKSI CITRA POLITIK JOKOWI-MA’RUF DAN PRABOWO-SANDIAGA DI KORAN JAWA POS DALAM PEMILU 2019
Authors: Silviana Nia , Martanto Ucu
Published: November 2021

This study examines the correlation between reporting by the mass media and the marketing strategies desired by each success team in the 2019 Presidential Election. To find this out, the author uses discourse analysis from Fairclough, because this method is able to show the integration between a) text analysis, b) analysis of the production process, consumption and distribution of texts, and c) sociocultural analysis. There is no significant difference related to the reporting of Jokowi-Ma’ruf and Prabowo-Sandiaga in the Jawa Pos newspaper, both in qualitative and quantitative terms. Although there are similarities between the political image built by actors and the image constructed by the media, it does not mean that it is based on political cooperation. The selected setting and framing agenda is based on consideration of the selling value of information for the reader. This shows that the mass media as well as the opinion of Croteau and Hoynes (2001) in Stromback (2011) are considered to be oriented towards commercial businesses on how to serve the wants and needs of the audience and advertisers. However, the media and actors are mutually beneficial in this regard, because political reporting is a commodity sought by readers, while political actors need the media to deliver their political products to the public.
AL QAEDA’S RADICAL IDEOLOGY
Authors: Kostanian Ararat
Published: November 2021

The purpose of the essay is to illustrate the Ideological aspect of al Qaeda that constitutes the pillar of the organisation based on distinct interpretation of Quran and biased understanding of the meaning of Jihad. The functional method of al Qaeda is not simplistic or unsystematic, aimed at particular target or focused or specific country or region. The creation of such transnational organisation couldn’t have been revealed without political Ideology with its manifesto and the mechanism to spread its messages all over the world. It will not be correct to put al Qaeda among the category of the classical terror groups as I have shown in the essay as a comparison. Moreover, it is not similar to any categories of political Islam movements; since the distinction between Jihad and waging war has always been differentiated in the context of Political Islam. Whereas al Qaeda declares enemies in the house of Islam as well to countries, people and Institutions differ with their own created ideology. This distorted ideology has spread all over the world and become an enemy to Islam itself, which harmed the reputation of Islam as a religion. Attention on the ideologic context of al Qaeda hasn’t been researched well, unknown to majority of the experts. Instead, the attention at most has been put on its ground actions, security concerns and counter terrorism.
PERAN STAKEHOLDER DALAM MENDUKUNG IMPLEMENTASI KEBIJAKAN KAMPUNG KELUARGA BERENCANA: STUDI DESA JAMBEWANGI KECAMATAN SEMPU KABUPATEN BANYUWANGI
Authors: Widodo Eko Setyo , Nugroho Kris
Published: November 2021

The family planning village in Jambewangi village of Banyuwangi regency has been awarded the title of provice and national pilot KB Village in the year of 2019. Motivated by the commitment and active role of various components of stakeholders to foster and accompany the society in the process of implementation of the KB village policy. All stakeholders involved can provide coaching and facilitation to improve the utilization of all potential of the welfare and acceleration of the development of Jambewangi village. Each stakeholder involved has different influences and interests. It is also influenced by power or authority over the policy itself. This study was qualitative with a descriptive approach. Data were collected using observation and deep interviews. After examining the validity, data were analyzed by presenting the data that is simultaneously analyzed and interpreted according to the analysis theory of stakeholder role to be concluded. This study explains the analysis of the role of stakeholders involved in the implementation of family planning village in Jambewangi village of Banyuwangi regency, which are grouped based on interests and power on policies in accordance with Bryson's stakeholder analysis theory. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the grouping of stakeholders in this study had the aim to find out the parties involved in the implementation of the policy including its roles, interests, and impacts arising from the implementation of the policy program.
EVOLUCIÓN DE LOS FACTORES DE EMISIÓN COMO HERRAMIENTA DE MEJORA AMBIENTAL. CASO DE ESTUDIO DEL SECTOR CEMENTERO ESPAÑOL
Authors: Mora Pedro , Gil Esther , Sánchez-Martín Laura , Llamas Bernardo
Published: November 2021

La concienciación ambiental en el sector cementero español, unido a la normalización en cuanto a la cuantificación de emisiones nocivas para la salud, seguridad y ambiente, ha propiciado el desarrollo de factores de emisión como herramienta de estandarización a nivel país. Gracias a estos factores es posible establecer su evolución y analizar las causas técnicas que inciden en el comportamiento de las emisiones contaminantes. El presente trabajo de investigación recoge la evolución de dichos factores en una serie histórica que abarca el periodo 2009-2018. El análisis estadístico desarrollado permite establecer factores de emisión para el sector de estudio de forma robusta y fiable. Los resultados recogen la evolución de las emisiones, así como los últimos valores tomados de todo un sector de la industria española. La evolución de los factores de emisión muestra una concienciación cada vez mayor hacia la reducción de gases contaminantes, validando la herramienta factores de emisión y su metodología.
A Six-Step Model for Developing Competency Frameworks in the Healthcare Professions
Authors: Batt Alan , Williams Brett , Rich Jessica , Tavares Walter
Published: November 2021

Competency frameworks are developed for a variety of purposes, including describing professional practice and informing education and assessment frameworks. Despite the volume of competency frameworks developed in the healthcare professions, guidance remains unclear and is inconsistently adhered to (perhaps in part due to a lack of organising frameworks), there is variability in methodological choices, inconsistently reported outputs, and a lack of evaluation of frameworks. As such, we proposed the need for improved guidance. In this paper we outline a six-step model for developing competency framework that is designed to address some of these shortcomings. The six-steps comprise [1] identifying purpose, intended uses, scope, and stakeholders; [2] theoretically informed ways of identifying the contexts of complex, ‘real-world’ professional practice, which includes [3] aligned methods and means by which practice can be explored; [4] the identification and specification of competencies required for professional practice, [5] how to report the process and outputs of identifying such competencies, and [6] built-in strategies to continuously evaluate, update and maintain competency framework development processes and outputs. The model synthesizes and organizes existing guidance and literature, and furthers this existing guidance by highlighting the need for a theoretically-informed approach to describing and exploring practice that is appropriate, as well as offering guidance for developers on reporting the development process and outputs, and planning for the ongoing maintenance of frameworks.
Lignocellulose-Degrading Enzymes: A Biotechnology Platform for Ferulic Acid Production from Agro-Industrial Side Streams
Authors: Radenkovs Vitalijs , Juhnevica-Radenkova Karina , Kviesis Jorens , Lazdina Danija , Valdovska Anda , Vallejo Fernando , Lacis Gunars
Published: November 2021

Biorefining by enzymatic hydrolysis (EH) of lignocellulosic waste material due to low costs and affordability has received enormous interest amongst scientists as a potential strategy suitable for the production of bioactive ingredients and chemicals. In the present study, a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to the extraction of bound ferulic acid (FA) has been demonstrated using a single-step EH by a mixture of lignocellulose-degrading enzymes. For comparative purposes of the efficiency of EH, an online SFE-SFC-MS extraction and analysis approach was applied. The experimental results demonstrated up to 369.3 mg 100 g−1 FA released from rye bran after 48 h EH with Viscozyme L. The EH of wheat and oat bran with Viscoferm for 48 h resulted in 255.1 and 33.5 mg 100 g−1 of FA, respectively. The extraction of FA from bran matrix using the SFE-CO2-EtOH delivered up to 464.3 mg 100 g−1 of FA, though the extractability varied depending on the parameters used. The 10-fold and 30-fold scale-up experiments confirmed the applicability of EH as a bioprocessing method valid for industrial-scale. The highest yield of FA in both scale-up experiments was obtained from rye bran after 48 h of EH with Viscozyme L. In purified extracts, the absence of xylose, arabinose, and glucose as final degradation products of lignocellulose was proven by a HPLC-RID system. Up to 94.0% purity of FA was achieved by SPE using the polymeric reversed-phase Strata X column and 50% EtOH as eluent.
“I'm walking on eggshells”: Challenges faced by mothers with breast cancer in interacting with adolescent daughters
Authors: Zhu Pingting , Ji Qiaoying , Liu Xinyi , Xu Ting , Wu Qiwei , Wang Yuejuan
Published: November 2021

Background

With breast cancer becoming the most diagnosed cancer in the world, the number of breast cancer mothers with adolescent children is also rising. And for adolescent daughters, their mother server as a primary figure among the key processes of identification with their gender, femininity and sexuality. But breast cancer threats mother’s health including such a key symbol of her womanhood, the breast. Which may adversely affect the development of an adolescent daughter’s own sense of personal identity and womanhood. However, few researchers and practitioners on mother-daughter interactions in the context of breast cancer, therefor this study is aimed to reveal the nuances of interactive challenges with adolescent daughters faced by mother with breast cancer from mother’ perspective.
Methods

A qualitative study was conducted. With the sample saturation principle, data collected by semi-structured interviews with 21 breast cancer patients who are in line with breast conserving. Colaizzi’s method of phenomenology was used for data analysis and Foucauldian discourse approach was also partially integrated into the analysis for this research.
Results

Three major themes emerged from the data. The themes were the following: (1) Mothers are lost in chaos (unable to deal with the shock of cancer, powerlessness of the uncertainty about the life span, and confused about how to respond to daughter's curiosity); (2) Mothers struggle for balance (protect daughter or let her be independent, as a mother or a patient); and (3) Mothers are immersed in guilt (increasing risk of cancer for daughters, influencing the development of daughter, and bring burden to daughter).
Conclusions

Our findings explore the interaction experience of breast cancer mothers and adolescence daughters, and further reveal the nuances of mother–daughter interaction challenges faced by mother with breast cancer from mother’ perspective. To help mothers enhance interaction with their daughters and assist health practitioners to translate our findings into health interventions.
Association Between Socioeconomic Status and Severity of Oral Epithelial Dysplasia Using a Taiwanese Nationwide Oral Mucosal Screening Program: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Chiang Tien-En , Lin Yu-Chun , Wu Chi-Tsung , Wu Sheng-Tang , Chen Yuan-Wu
Published: November 2021

Background: The study aimed to investigate the association between socioeconomic status and severity of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) using current data from the Taiwanese Nationwide Oral Mucosal Screening Program (TNOMSP). Methods: This retrospective analysis was conducted in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at a general hospital in Taipei, Taiwan. A total of 134 participants were analysed from a previous study database of 150 patients. The inclusion criteria included age over 20 years and a history of either tobacco or betel nut use. Background information, including para-habits such as betel and tobacco use, was analysed using Pearson chi-square (χ2) test, furthermore, the correlation of background information with OED severity was investigated using logistic regression (mild or moderate/high).Results: High school education level (P<0.001), poor self-awareness (P=0.002), current betel use (P<0.001), and tobacco use (P=0.003) were highly correlated with moderate- and high-grade OED (P<0.05). The odds ratio (OR) of education status above senior high school was 0.03 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–0.15, P<0.001), while that of junior high school was 1. Current betel chewing (OR=6.57 [95% CI: 1.17–37.0], P=0.033) was significantly associated with OED severity compared with never or ex-use of betel.Conclusions: We found a strong correlation between the severity of OED and current betel use and low education status. The current study revealed the socioeconomic status, poor self-awareness, and para-habits history of the patients with OED should be evaluated to identify high-risk individuals using TNOMSP.
Evaluation of the Intermittent Preventive Therapy in Pregnancy using Sulphadoxine/ Pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) Program in Chiredzi District, Zimbabwe, 2021
Authors: Thakataka Amanda Sarah , Mberikunashe Joseph , Mungati More , Juru Tsitsi Patience , Chadambuka Addmore , Gombe Notion Tafara , Tshimanga Mufuta
Published: November 2021

Background Intermittent Preventive Treatment in Pregnancy (IPTp) with Sulphadoxine/ Pyrimethamine (SP) is used for the prevention of malaria among pregnant women in Zimbabwe. The program is integrated into routine Antenatal care (ANC) where a minimum of three doses is recommended during each pregnancy. The third dose coverage for Chiredzi District has consistently been below the 80% target coverage. We evaluated IPTp implementation in Chiredzi to understand the reasons for underperformance. Methods An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using a Process-Outcome evaluation with the Logical Framework Approach. We interviewed 50 women in postnatal care and determined ANC services accessed using their ANC booklets. Health workers were interviewed for knowledge of the program. Stock availability and drug delivery records were reviewed using checklists at five high-volume sites. Epi Info 7.2.4.0™ was used for data capturing and analysis. The software was used to calculate frequencies, medians, proportions, odds ratios and p-values at a 95% confidence interval. The outcome variable was receiving ≥3 doses of SP which was computed against the independent variables such as client-related characteristics to determine which factors were contributory using univariate and bivariate analysis. Results Only 12/50 (24%) women received ≥3 doses of SP during their pregnancy. Two (4%) women started their ANC visits in the first trimester. Thirty-three (66%) had missed at least one SP dose during their ANC visit because of medicine unavailability. Knowing the number of times SP is given (OR 11.9; 95% CI 2.54-55.8) and having attended at least 4 ANC visits (OR 13.6; 95% CI 1.59 -116.0) increased the likelihood of receiving adequate SP dosing. Conclusions The IPTp-SP program in Chiredzi District was underperforming, we attributed this largely to health system factors. Erratic supply and stock-outs of SP resulted in clients missing SP doses. Clients also missed SP doses because of late ANC booking and lack of knowledge on IPTp benefits. Improving stock management and raising community awareness on prevention of malaria among pregnant women was recommended.
Investigation on the Self-synchronization of Dual Steady States for a Vibrating System with Four Unbalanced Rotors
Authors: Chunyu Zhao , Jiang Mengchao , Zhao Chunyu , Wang Yuanhao , Duan Weihai
Published: November 2021

In the field of vibration utilization engineering, to achieve the maximum degree or the highest efficiency use of the excitation force is still a hotspot among researchers. Based on this, this paper has carried out a series of synchronous theoretical analysis on the four identical unbalanced rotors (IURs) symmetrically and circularly mounted on a rigid frame (RF) model, which is used to drive a cone crusher. The dimensionless coupling equations of the four IURs are established using the improved small parameter method. The analysis of the coupling dynamics characteristics of the system shows that the four motors of the system adjust the speed through the synchronous torque to achieve synchronization, and a parameter determination method for realizing offset self-synchronization to eccentric force was put forward under the steady state of ultra-resonance. Furthermore, the relationship between the equivalent stiffness of the crushed material and crushing force and compression coefficient is discussed, and the design method of the full-load crusher working under the steady state of sub-resonance is proposed. Finally, through a series of computer simulations, the correctness of the self-synchronization of dual steady states is verified.
Turbulent shear flow of solids
Authors: Beygelzimer Yan , Filippov Alexander , Kulagin Roman , Estrin Yuri
Published: November 2021

The term ‘solid-state turbulence’ may sound like an oxymoron, but in fact it is not. In this article we demonstrate that solid-state turbulence may emerge owing to a defining property of the solid state: the ability of a solid to retain its shape. We consider shear flow of layers of solids with different stiffness and show that the stiffer ones may spontaneously decompose into a set of blocks. This breakdown of isometry is a key to plasticity of solids and is fundamental for the occurrence of solid-state turbulence. To visualise the piecewise isometric transformations of the blocky structure in a turbulent flow regime, we use a heuristic model based on discretisation of a continuum into interacting ‘particles’. The outcomes of the numerical experiments conducted support the occurrence of pulsations of velocity and pressure in plastically deforming solids and the emergence of vortices characteristic of classical turbulence. This phenomenon may have important practical implications for solid-state mixing as an ecologically beneficial alternative to conventional metallurgical processing routes.
Integrating Online Differential Titrimetry and Dynamic Modelling as Innovative Energy Saving Strategy in a Large Industrial WWTP
Authors: Polizzi Cecilia , Falcioni Serena , Mannucci Alberto , Mori Gualtiero , Nardi Arianna , Munz Giulio , Spennati Francesco
Published: November 2021

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) are required to meet increasingly stringent effluent quality standards as well as to improve process sustainability in terms of energy efficiency, in line with the call for a paradigm shift towards the more sustainable concept of wastewater resource recorvery facility (WRRF). In this context, optimised Instrumentation, Control and Automation (ICA) systems as well as process and plant-wide modelling have become key tools for optimising economic and environmental costs. The present work reports on the succesfull integration of an innovative on-line continuous titrimeter and plant-wide modelling as a support tool for the optimisation of the nitritification unit in a large-scale industrial WWTP. The information gathered from the on-line titrimeter allowed for real-time estimation of the Ammonia Oxidation Rate of the activated sludge and, ultimately, of the nitrification residual capacity of the plant. Results on the titrimeter long-term operation and historical data modelling supported plant managing decisions, such as lowering the DO set-point of the oxidation unit, straightforwardly resulting in energy saving.
Modeling and Analysis of Multi-pass Progressive Flanging Force of Round Metal Tubes
Authors: Hou Xiaoli , Li Yan , Xiao XuDong , Qiu Xu , Yang Mingshun , Gao Xinqin
Published: November 2021

Pipe flanging is needed extensively in the industrial field, and its technological requirements are complicated and changeable. Currently the special flanging die and equipment are less flexible, while the whole set of equipment cost is high. As a result, pipe flanging technology with strong adaptability is necessary in single-piece or small-batch production. In this paper, a multi-pass progressive flanging process of round metal pipes with ball-end tool bar as forming tool is introduced, and dieless flanging of pipe can be realized by means of numerical control machine. In the dieless flanging process, the feedback and control of flanging force is a key factor for the flanging quality to meet design requirements. Therefore, this paper studies the change of flanging force in the multi-pass progressive flanging process of round metal tubes by combining theory, simulation and experiments. Based on the process of multi-pass progressive flanging of round pipes, an analytical model of the forming force of multi-pass progressive flanging of round pipes is established by taking the micro-element contacting tool bar with pipe as the research object. With the commercial ABAQUS finite element software, the multi-pass progressive flanging process of round pipes is simulated, and the evolution data of stress and strain field of the pipe during flanging process are obtained. Finally, a multi-pass progressive flanging test system is set up, and the three-dimensional forming force on the tool bar in flanging is measured. The flanging force measured by analytical calculation, finite element simulation and experiment is in good agreement. When the flanging angle is small, the radial forming force is the largest, followed by the axial forming force. As the flanging angle increases, the difference between radial forming force and axial forming force decreases gradually. When the flanging angle is greater than 30 to 40 degrees, the axial forming force becomes the largest, followed by the radial forming force.
Impact of Type, Dose and Duration of Oral Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Disease Activity in Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sigaux Johanna , Mathieu Sylvain , Nguyen Yann , Sanchez Pauline , Letarouilly Jean-Guillaume , Soubrier Martin , Czernichow Sébastien , Flipo René-Marc , Sellam Jérémie , Daïen Claire
Published: November 2021

Background. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) supplementation has been reported to improve disease activity in inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRD). However, data are often conflicting and studies insufficiently large to draw conclusions. This systematic literature review and meta-analysis aimed to better estimate the effect of oral supplementation with omega (n)-3 and n-6 PUFA on IRD activity in terms of duration, dose, type and source.Methods. The literature was searched in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases up to October 2020. Studies were reviewed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The effect of PUFA supplementation on disease activity was expressed as the standardized mean difference (95% CI). Metaregression and subgroup analyses involved type of IRD, Jadad score, PUFA source (animal or vegetable) and doses. Results. We obtained 42 references; 30 randomized controlled studies were included comparing the effects of PUFA versus control on disease activity (710 IRD patients receiving PUFA supplementation and 710 controls, most with rheumatoid arthritis). We found a significant improvement in pain, swollen and tender joint count, Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, and Health Assessment Questionnaire score in IRD patients receiving PUFA supplementation as compared with controls, with a significant decrease in erythrocyte sedimentation rate but not C-reactive protein level. Although meta-regression revealed no difference by IRD type or source or dose of PUFA supplementation, subgroup analysis revealed more parameters significantly improved with animal- than vegetable-derived PUFAs and 3-to 6-month supplementation. Most studies examined high-dose supplementation (>2 g/day). Conclusion. PUFA consumption, especially omega-3 from animal source >2 g/day, may improve IRD activity and might be an adjuvant therapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Trial registration. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021253685).
Astrocytic Nrf2 Expression Protects Spinal Cord From Oxidative Stress in a Spinal Cord Injury Animal Model
Authors: Zhao Weiyi , Gasterich Natalie , Clarner Tim , Voelz Clara , Behrens Victoria , Beyer Cordian , Fragoulis Athanassios , Zendedel Adib
Published: November 2021

BackgroundSpinal cord injury (SCI) induces a multitude of deleterious processes, including neuroinflammation and oxidative stress (OS) which contributed to neuronal damage and demyelination. Recent studies have suggested that increased formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the consequent OS are critical events associated with SCI. However, there is still little information regarding the impact of these events on SCI. Astrocytes are key regulators of oxidative homeostasis in the CNS and astrocytic antioxidant responses promote the clearance of oxidants produced by neurons. Therefore, dysregulation of astrocyte physiology might largely contribute to oxidative damage. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is the main transcriptional regulator of cellular anti-oxidative stress responses. MethodsIn the current study, using mice with a GFAP-specific kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-deletion, we induced a hyperactivation of Nrf2 in astrocytes and further its effects on SCI outcomes. SCI-induction was performed in mice using the Infinite Horizon Spinal Cord Impactor with a force of 60 kdyn. To assess the quantitative pattern of Nrf2/ARE-activation, we included transgenic ARE-Luc mice. Data were analyzed with GraphPad Prism 8 (GraphPad Software Inc., San Diego, CA, USA). Brown-Forsythe test was performed to test for equal variances and normal distribution was tested with Shapiro-Wilk.ResultsIn ARE-Luc mice, a significant induction of luciferase-activity was observed as early as 1 day post injury, indicating a functional role of Nrf2-activity at the epicenter of SCI. Further, SCI induced loss of neurons and oligodendrocytes, demyelination and inflammation in wild type mice. The loss of myelin and oligodendrocytes was clearly reduced in Keap1 KO mice. In addition, Keap-1 KO mice showed a significantly better locomotor function and lower neuroinflammation responses compared to wild type mice. ConclusionsIn summary, our in vivo bioluminescence data showed Nrf2-ARE activation during primary phase of SCI. Further, we found that cell specific hyperactivation of Nrf2 was sufficient to protect the spinal cord against injury which indicate a promising therapeutic approach for SCI-treatment.
Efficiency of a Novel Vertebral Body Augmentation System (Tektona™) in Non-osteoporotic Spinal Fractures
Authors: Marie-Hardy Laura , Mohsinaly Yann , Pietton Raphaël , Stencel-Allemand Marion , Khalifé Marc , Bonaccorsi Raphaël , Barut Nicolas , Pascal-Moussellard Hugues
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThe restauration of the local kyphosis is crucial for spinal fractures outcomes. Recently, the Tektona™, (Spine Art) system, constituted by a flexible lamella for reduction has emerged as a promising solution for osteoporotic fractures. However, no study has yet focused on its results on traumatic fractures. MethodsA retrospective longitudinal study on prospectively collected data was conducted on 53 patients. The data collected were clinical, surgical and scannographic (measurement of AVH, MVH and PVH (anterior/medium/posterior vertebral height), and RTA (regional traumatic angle) in°), preoperatively, early post-operative and at follow-up. ResultsFractures were mainly located at the upper lumbar spine and were Magerl A3.1 type for 51%. The mean RTA was 12° in pre-operative, 4° in post-operative (p=2e-9), and 8° at the last follow-up (p=0,01). The mean correction of RTA for the fixation group was -10±6° versus -7±4° for the vertebroplasty alone group (p=0,006). The mean correction for fractures located at T10-T12 was -9±3°, -9±5° for L1, -8±3° for L2 and -5±3° for L3-L5 (p=0,045). ConclusionsThe Tektona® system appears to be efficient for acute thoraco-lumbar fractures, comparable to other available systems, allowing a real intracorporeal reduction work. Its relevance, especially in the long term needs further investigation. The association of a percutaneous fixation allow to obtain a better correction of the RTA but did not seem to prevent the loss of correction at follow-up.
Effect Analysis of Iliac Bone Autografting for Hepple V Osteochondral Lesions of The Talus
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Dong , Zhang Fengqi , Jin Lin , Shi Donglin , Hou Zhiyong
Published: November 2021

BackgroundThis study aimed to analyze the efficacy of iliac bone autografting for Hepple V osteochondral lesions of the talus.MethodsThis retrospective study included 32 patients surgically treated for Hepple V osteochondral lesions of the talus from January 2015 to January 2020. All patients underwent open surgery. Ipsilateral iliac bone grafts were taken and filled with talar cartilage injury area. The improvement of postoperative ankle pain was evaluated by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the improvement of ankle function was evaluated by the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS). During the postoperative follow-up, X-ray examination of the front and side of the ankle joint and CT of the ankle joint were performed to evaluate the bone cartilage healing in the graft area.ResultsThirty-two patients (32 ankles) (100%) returned for clinical and radiologic follow-up at an average of 28 (range, 24–36) months postoperatively. At 3 months postoperatively and at the last follow-up, the AOFAS scores were (80.4±3.6) and (89.2±6.4) respectively, which were significantly improved compared with the preoperative score (49.7 ± 8.1), and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The VAS scores were (2.1±0.9) and (1.5±0.8) respectively, which were significantly better than the preoperative score (6.2±1.7), and the difference was statistically significant(P < 0.05). Re-examination of the front and side of the ankle joint x-rays and CT showed that the bone bone healing at the osteotomy of medial malleolus and osteochondral transplantation area. All patients had no pain at the donor site. No complications occurred in 32 patients at the last follow-up.ConclusionsWith iliac bone autografting for Hepple V osteochondral lesions of the talus can effectively relieve ankle joint pain and significantly improved ankle function. The clinical effect is remarkable.Level of evidence：Leve III, Retrospective series.
IR783 Encapsulated in TR-conjugated Liposomes for Enhancing NIR Imaging-guided Photothermal and Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Lv Jiajia , Luan Tianjiao , Yang Mingyan , Wang Mengmeng , Gao Jie , Yuan Zeli
Published: November 2021

We developed an integrin αvβ3-specific liposomes, TR-conjugated liposomes (TR-LPs), loading IR783 for NIR imaging-guided both PTT and PDT. The TR-LPs was composed of soyabeanphosphatidylcholine, cholesterol, 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine- N- [methoxy(polyethylene glycol)-2000] (DSPE-PEG) and TR-functionalized DSPE-PEG. IR783, NIR PTT/PDT diagnostic agents, were encapsulated in the hydrophilic core of the TR-LPs. DSPE-PEG had ability of reducing the absorption of TR-LPs by the reticuloendothelial system and increase the cycle time in body. RGD fragment on the TR peptide (TR = c(RGD)-AGYLLGHINLHHLAHL(Aib)HHIL-cys) enhanced the tumor selectivity of liposomes by specifically targeting integrin αvβ3-overexpressing cancer cells. Simultaneously, the rest of fragment on the TR peptide can be changed to the positive charge in the tumor microenvironment (pH 6.5), improving cellular uptake of photoagents at tumor site. We executed a set of in vitro and in vivo experiments to verify if, by functionalizing liposomes with an integrin αvβ3-specific and pH responding peptide, it is possible to achieve NIR imaging guided PTT/PDT for tumor treatment. TR-conjugated liposomes exhibited favorable physical and chemical stability, loading capacity, biocompatibility and tumor targeting. TR-LPs can safely and efficiently delivery IR783 to tumor sites to achieve their therapeutic function. IR783-TR-LPs is promising as a potentially safe and effective phototherapeutic agents for NIR fluorescence-guided tumor therapy applications.
A Survey of Methylobacterium Species and Strains Reveals Widespread Production and Varying Profiles of Cytokinin Phytohormones
Authors: Palberg Daniel , Kisiała Anna , Jorge Gabriel Lemes , Emery R. J. Neil
Published: November 2021

BackgroundSymbiotic Methylobacterium strains comprise a significant part of plant microbiomes. Their presence enhances plant productivity and stress resistance, prompting classification of these strains as plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB). Methylobacteria can synthesize unusually high levels of plant hormones, called cytokinins (CKs), including the most active form, trans-Zeatin (tZ). ResultsThis study provides a comprehensive inventory of 46 representatives of Methylobacterium genus with respect to phytohormone production in vitro, including 16 CK forms, abscisic acid (ABA) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). High performance-liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) analyses revealed varying abilities of Methylobacterium strains to secrete phytohormones that ranged from 5.09 to 191.47 pmol mL-1 for total CKs, and 0.46 to 82.16 pmol mL-1 for tZ. Results indicate that reduced methanol availability, the sole carbon source for bacteria in the medium, stimulates CK secretion by Methylobacterium. Additionally, select strains were able to transform L-tryptophan into IAA while no ABA production was detected.ConclusionsTo better understand features of CKs in plants, this study uncovers CK profiles of Methylobacterium that are instrumental in microbe selection for effective biofertilizer formulations.
Construction and Properties of Ag-I Polymeric Clusters Attach With Nitrogen Heterocyclic Transition Metal Moiety
Authors: Liu Min , Xin Yu , Xing Yong Heng , Bai Fengying , Shi Zhan
Published: November 2021

Two silver cluster compounds {[Co(1,10′-phen)3]2‧[Ag8I12]} (1) and {[Co(2, 2′-bipy)3]‧[Ag10I11]‧(OH)‧3DMF‧2H2O} (2) (1,10′-phen=1,10′-phenanthroline, 2, 2′-bipy=2,2′-bipyridine) were designed and synthesized by solvent evaporation method. The two silver cluster compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray powder diffraction. The crystal structures of compounds 1 and 2 were determined by X-ray crystallography diffraction. Through the electrostatic interaction between the metallic Ag cluster moiety and the metallic Co cluster moiety, form stable interlaced layered super molecular structures. In order to explore functional properties, the catalytic reduction of p-nitrophenol and electrochemical behavior of compounds 1 and 2 were explored. The results show that compounds 1 and 2 can efficiently catalyze the reduction of p-nitrophenol in the aqueous solution, and the reduction and removal rate can reach more than 90%.
Challenges and Solutions for The Promotion of Medical Sciences Faculty Members in Iran: A Systematic Review
Authors: Salajegheh Mahla , Hekmat Somayeh Noori , Macky Maryam
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Faculty members play an important role in achieving the goals of higher education and take the responsibility of educating and disciplining students. This research aimed to investigate the challenges and concerns facing faculty member promotion regulations and provide appropriate solutions.Method: This study was a systematic review conducted by searching PubMed, Scopus, Eric, Web of Science, Cochrane, SID, Magiran, and Irandoc journals and databases with Persian and English keywords in the period from 2015 to 2020. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened and the data were extracted over two authors. Results: Thirteen articles were included. Challenges to promotion of faculty members were reviewed and grouped into five main categories: 1) the general regulations for the promotion of faculty members, 2) cultural, disciplinary, and social activities, 3) educational activities, 4) research-technology activities, and 5) scientific-executive activities. Conclusion: Despite several amendments to regulations for the promotion of faculty members, this process always encounters challenges due to the complex nature of its related tasks. This article provides tips to policymakers on regulations of promotion for educational activities.
A Nomogram For Predicting HCC Patients’ Overall Survival Based On Double Hub Genes and Other Clinical Risk Factors.
Authors: Chen Jianfei , Liu Zhong-liang , Su Song , Fan Jun , Tan Shun-de , Li Bo , Yang Xiao-li
Published: November 2021

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the series malignant aggressive disease which shows elusive biological behavior and terrible prognosis. It is inadequate for the single evaluation system such as tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) staging system to predict the overall survival (OS) in HCC patients. Here, we conducted this study to identify prognosis-related genes, so as to form a reliable prognostic assessment model.Results: From three datasets in the GEO database, we identified two hub genes cytoskeleton associated protein 2 (CKAP2) and forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) among 348 differentially expressed genes (DGEs) that were differentially expressed between HCC and normal samples. The function analysis of those DEGs are enriched in cell division process (e.g., mitotic nuclear division, nuclear chromosome segregation) and metabolic process (e.g., organic acid catabolic process). Then, we established a two-gene model, that extremely distinguished the population at risk of liver cancer to high-risk and low-risk and was even viable in the TNM stage i-ii and iii-iv, vascular invasion and non-invasion subgroups (all P<0.05). Next, a nomogram was set out combined with the two hub genes and clinical risk factors, and the predictive power of the nomogram performed more outstanding than the gene expression or clinical parameters alone.Conclusions: Our two-gene-based evaluation system effectively filtered out the high-risk HCC patients, and could potentially be used for clinical decision-making and individualized management of particular HCC patients.
Factors Associated with Exclusive Breastfeeding in the State of Kuwait
Authors: Alwaalan Tahani , Al-Aati Tareq , Al-Mutairi Salwa
Published: November 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
MPP2 Interacts With SK2 Rescue The Excitability of Glutamatergic Neurons in The BLA and Facilitate The Extinction of Conditioned Fear in Mice
Authors: Peng Xiao-Han , Chen Pan-Pan , Zhang Yang , Wu Ke , Ji Ningning , Gao Jing-hua , Zhang Yong-mei , Xu Tie , Hua Rong , Wang Hui
Published: November 2021

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders stem from dysregulated fear memory in which the basolateral amygdala (BLA) plays an integral role. The excitability of glutamatergic neurons in the BLA correlates with fear memory, and the afterhyperpolarization current (IAHP) mediated by small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel subtype 2 (SK2) dominates the excitability of glutamatergic neurons. However, definitive evidence for the involvement of the SK2 channel in the BLA in fear extinction is lacking. Here, we discovered that fear conditioning decreased the levers of synaptic SK2 channels in the BLA, which were restored following fear extinction. Notably, reduced expression of synaptic SK2 channels in the BLA during fear conditioning was caused by the increased activity of protein kinase A (PKA), while increased levers of synaptic SK2 channels in the BLA during fear extinction were mediated by interactions with membrane palmitoylated protein 2 (MPP2). Collectively, our results revealed that MPP2 interacts with the SK2 channels and rescues the excitability of glutamatergic neurons by increasing the expression of synaptic SK2 channels in the BLA to promote the normalization of fear memory. These findings expand our understanding of the neurobiological mechanism of PTSD and provide a new direction for PTSD treatment.
Debt for nature swaps – which nature, how much and who pays?
Authors: Nedophil Christoph , Yue Mengdi , Hughes Alice
Published: November 2021

Financially viable means to conserve biodiversity are urgently needed. We analyze how debt-for-nature swaps could conserve currently unprotected biodiversity priority-areas for six biomes in 67 countries under the debt service suspension initiative related to COVID19. Using novel methods and data, we find that the 67 countries hold over 22% of global priority-areas, yet 82.96% is unprotected. For 35 of the 67 countries, swapping 0.1% of public debt could conserve 100% of unprotected priority-areas. By swapping 5.09% of these countries’ total public debt (USD26.5 billion) in a pooled swap, 100% of priority-areas could be protected across the countries. Management costs could partly be covered through re-routed interest payments within the countries, with further annual funding of USD0.5-3.5 billion required. One-Sentence Summary: We develop a framework for efficient application of debt-for-nature swaps to maximize biodiversity conservation.
Identification KCNE4 and DNASE1L3 for Prognostic Utility in Colorectal Cancer: A Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liu Deming , Xiang Xue , Chen Yaqiong , Jiao Yajun , Wang Liuli , Wang Yongfeng , Ma Haizhong , Ma Shixun , Cai Hui , Guo Tiankang
Published: November 2021

Objective: Immunotherapy has improved the prognosis of cancer patients who did not benefit from conventional treatment and decreased mortality, which has become an effective treatment for multiple carcinomas in their advanced stages. Patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) were mostly in the state of mismatch repair-proficient or microsatellite stability, with limited benefit in immunotherapy. Hence, immunotherapy strategies for CRC still need to be explored continuously. Methods: Based on comprehensive analysis of the immune infiltration associated genes in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and differential genes for the progression and metastasis of CRC in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, as well as validation analysis on several online databases, we obtained two genes (KCNE4 and DNASE1L3) as novel immune-related molecules for CRC. Results: High expression of KCNE4 and DNASE1L3 were significantly correlated with CRC progression and prognosis, and were strongly associated with the infiltration of different types of macrophages in the CRC tumor microenvironment. In addition, we analysed the guidance value of KCNE4 and DNASE1L3 in anti-PD-1 therapy using data from the IMvigor210 group, and predicted the significant value of KCNE4 and DNASE1L3 in CRC immunotherapy by analyzing the correlation of KCNE4 and DNASE1L3 with the expression of CRC immune checkpoint markers. Conclusions: We hypothesized that DNASE1L3 and KCNE4 would be potential prognostic biomarkers and predictors of immunotherapy in CRC. Our results may serve as an indication of survival prognosis and provide a new assessment indicator for the choice of immunotherapy for CRC patients.