bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-205 mediates endothelial progenitor functions in distraction osteogenesis by targeting the transcription regulator NOTCH2
Authors: Jiang Weidong , Zhu Peiqi , Zhang Tao , Liao Fengchun , Yu Yangyang , Liu Yan , Shen Huijuan , Zhao Zhenchen , Huang Xuanping , Zhou Nuo
Published: February 2021

Background

Distraction osteogenesis (DO) is a highly efficacious form of reconstructive bone regeneration, but its clinical utility is limited by the prolonged period required for bone consolidation to occur. Understanding the mechanistic basis for DO and shortening this consolidation phase thus represent promising approaches to improving the clinical utility of this procedure.

Methods

A mandibular DO (MDO) canine model was established, after which small RNA sequencing was performed to identify relevant molecular targets genes. Putative miRNA target genes were identified through bioinformatics and confirmed through qPCR, Western blotting, and dual-luciferase reporter assays. Peripheral blood samples were collected to isolate serum and endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) in order to measure miR-205, NOTCH2, and angiogenic cytokines expression levels. Lentiviral constructs were then used to inhibit or overexpress miR-205 and NOTCH2 in isolated ECFCs, after which the angiogenic activity of these cells was evaluated in migration, wound healing, proliferation, tube formation, and chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Autologous ECFCs transfected to knockdown miR-205 and were injected directly into the distraction callus. On days 14, 28, 35 and 42 after surgery, bone density was evaluated via CBCT, and callus samples were collected and evaluated via histological staining to analyze bone regeneration and remodeling.

Results

MiR-205 was identified as being one of the miRNAs that was most significantly downregulated in MDO callus samples. Downregulation of miR-205 was also observed in DO-ECFCs and serum of animals undergoing MDO. Inhibiting miR-205 markedly enhanced angiogenesis, whereas overexpressing miR-205 had the opposite effect in vitro. Importantly, NOTCH2, which is a unique regulator in bone angiogenesis, was identified as a miR-205 target gene. Consistent with this regulatory relationship, knocking down NOTCH2 suppressed angiogenesis, and transduction with a miR-205 inhibitor lentivirus was sufficient to rescue angiogenic activity. When ECFCs in which miR-205 had been inhibited were transplanted into the MDO callus, this significantly bolstered osteogenesis, and remodeling in vivo.

Conclusions

MiR-205 is a significant regulator of the MDO process, and inhibiting this miRNA can accelerate MDO-related mineralization. Overall, these results offer new insights into the mechanistic basis for this procedure, highlighting potential targets for therapeutic clinical intervention.
Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes: therapeutic opportunities and challenges for spinal cord injury
Authors: Liu Wen-zhao , Ma Zhan-jun , Li Jie-ru , Kang Xue-wen
Published: February 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often leads to serious motor and sensory dysfunction of the limbs below the injured segment. SCI not only results in physical and psychological harm to patients but can also cause a huge economic burden on their families and society. As there is no effective treatment method, the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with SCI have become urgent problems to be solved. In recent years, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have attracted more attention in the treatment of SCI. Although MSC therapy can reduce injured volume and promote axonal regeneration, its application is limited by tumorigenicity, a low survival rate, and immune rejection. Accumulating literature shows that exosomes have great potential in the treatment of SCI. In this review, we summarize the existing MSC-derived exosome studies on SCI and discuss the advantages and challenges of treating SCI based on exosomes derived from MSCs.
Perioperative risk factors for recovery room delirium after elective non-cardiovascular surgery under general anaesthesia
Authors: Wu Jiayi , Gao Shaojie , Zhang Shuang , Yu Yao , Liu Shangkun , Zhang Zhiguo , Mei Wei
Published: February 2021

Background

Although postoperative delirium is a frequent complication of surgery, little is known about risk factors for delirium occurring in the post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU). The aim of this study was to determine pre- and intraoperative risk factors for the development of recovery room delirium (RRD) in patients undergoing elective non-cardiovascular surgery.

Methods

RRD was diagnosed according to the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU). We collected perioperative data in 228 patients undergoing elective non-cardiovascular surgery under general anaesthesia and performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression to identify risk factors related to RRD. PACU and postoperative events were recorded to assess the outcome of RRD.

Results

Fifty-seven patients (25%) developed RRD. On multivariate analysis, maintenance of anaesthesia with inhalation anaesthetic agents (OR = 6.294, 95% CI 1.4–28.8, corrected p= 0.03), malignant primary disease (OR = 3.464, 95% CI = 1.396–8.592, corrected p= 0.018), American Society of Anaesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA-PS) III–V (OR = 3.389, 95% CI = 1.401–8.201, corrected p= 0.018), elevated serum total or direct bilirubin (OR = 2.535, 95% CI = 1.006–6.388, corrected p= 0.049), and invasive surgery (OR = 2.431, 95% CI = 1.103–5.357, corrected p= 0.035) were identified as independent risk factors for RRD. RRD was associated with higher healthcare costs (31,428 yuan [17,872–43,674] versus 16,555 yuan [12,618–27,788], corrected p= 0.002), a longer median hospital stay (17 days [12–23.5] versus 11 days [9–17], corrected p= 0.002), and a longer postoperative stay (11 days [7–15] versus 7 days [5–10], corrected p= 0.002]).

Conclusions

Identifying patients at high odds for RRD preoperatively would enable the formation of more timely postoperative delirium management programmes.
Specialized metabolic functions of keystone taxa sustain soil microbiome stability
Authors: Xun Weibing , Liu Yunpeng , Li Wei , Ren Yi , Xiong Wu , Xu Zhihui , Zhang Nan , Miao Youzhi , Shen Qirong , Zhang Ruifu
Published: January 2021

Background

The relationship between biodiversity and soil microbiome stability remains poorly understood. Here, we investigated the impacts of bacterial phylogenetic diversity on the functional traits and the stability of the soil microbiome. Communities differing in phylogenetic diversity were generated by inoculating serially diluted soil suspensions into sterilized soil, and the stability of the microbiome was assessed by detecting community variations under various pH levels. The taxonomic features and potential functional traits were detected by DNA sequencing.

Results

We found that bacterial communities with higher phylogenetic diversity tended to be more stable, implying that microbiomes with higher biodiversity are more resistant to perturbation. Functional gene co-occurrence network and machine learning classification analyses identified specialized metabolic functions, especially “nitrogen metabolism” and “phosphonate and phosphinate metabolism,” as keystone functions. Further taxonomic annotation found that keystone functions are carried out by specific bacterial taxa, includingNitrospiraandGemmatimonas, among others.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into our understanding of the relationships between soil microbiome biodiversity and ecosystem stability and highlights specialized metabolic functions embedded in keystone taxa that may be essential for soil microbiome stability.
In situ acoustic analysis of two twentieth-century heritage carillons
Authors: Orr Scott Allan
Published: February 2021

Carillons are a diverse and global form of musical and civic heritage: musical instruments comprised of a series of 23 or more bells, typically hung in a tower-like structure, tuned chromatically and played from a touch-sensitive manual and pedal console using an elaborate mechanical action. Carillon bells have a distinct series of musical overtones which should be accurately tuned to one another and with other bells they sound alongside. Although these overtones have been previously studied ex situ, this study assesses the acoustic characteristics of two early-twentieth century carillons in Toronto, Canada as a combination of structure, bells, and mechanical action. Thus, the instrument and its context are considered holistically, more accurately reflecting the musical sensitivity of a carillonist. Spectral analysis of audio samples of each bell at different musical dynamic levels enabled the analysis of the acoustic qualities of the bells and the mechanical action of the instruments. The tuning of bells in the instruments varied; most importantly, there was a significant difference between the audial intensity of the bell tones produced by the instruments, demonstrating the importance of the mechanical action as part of the ‘carillon system’. This was represented with a resistive power-law model, that represents the sensitivity of intensity to carillonist musical dynamic level. A discussion of the implications for artistic and heritage practice follows. Understanding the in situ physical acoustics of the carillon as a holistic instrument in its context informs performers, arrangers, and composers of how they can best embrace the instrument’s unique qualities to improve artistic pursuits and support the appreciation of carillons as heritage instruments and function as civic voices.
Analytical technique for stability analyses of the rock slope subjected to slide head toppling failure mechanisms considering groundwater and stabilization effects
Authors: Bowa Victor Mwango , Gong Wenping
Published: February 2021

The contributions of the current analytical models on the prediction of the stability of the slope subjected to slide head toppling failure mechanisms, have always focused on the idealized geometry comprising regular blocks dipping into the slope face. Besides, the influence of groundwater and stabilizations from the lowermost block of the slope have been overlooked in the available literature. In this article, the analytical solutions that incorporates the kinematic mechanisms of the jointed rock slope under the influence of groundwater and stabilizing the lowermost block subjected to slide head toppling are derived based on the limit equilibrium. Furthermore, a real slide head toppling failure case history was studied to illustrate the effectiveness of the presented analytical solutions. The investigation results indicate that the presence of groundwater in the jointed rock slope, lowers the distributions of the normal and shear forces thereby inducing slide head toppling. Reinforcing the lowermost block of the slope, enhances the distributions of the normal and shear forces thus improving the stability of the jointed rock slope. The study results depict that the presented analytical solutions can provide an accurate and efficient stability analyses of the jointed rock slope subjected to slide head toppling failure mechanisms considering the presence of groundwater and stabilization effects.
Determining sample size for progression criteria for pragmatic pilot RCTs: the hypothesis test strikes back!
Authors: Lewis M. , Bromley K. , Sutton C. J. , McCray G. , Myers H. L. , Lancaster G. A.
Published: February 2021

Background

The current CONSORT guidelines for reporting pilot trials do not recommend hypothesis testing of clinical outcomes on the basis that a pilot trial is under-powered to detect such differences and this is the aim of the main trial. It states that primary evaluation should focus on descriptive analysis of feasibility/process outcomes (e.g. recruitment, adherence, treatment fidelity). Whilst the argument for not testing clinical outcomes is justifiable, the same does not necessarily apply to feasibility/process outcomes, where differences may be large and detectable with small samples. Moreover, there remains much ambiguity around sample size for pilot trials.

Methods

Many pilot trials adopt a ‘traffic light’ system for evaluating progression to the main trial determined by a set of criteria set up a priori. We construct a hypothesis testing approach for binary feasibility outcomes focused around this system that tests against being in the RED zone (unacceptable outcome) based on an expectation of being in the GREEN zone (acceptable outcome) and choose the sample size to give high power to reject being in the RED zone if the GREEN zone holds true. Pilot point estimates falling in the RED zone will be statistically non-significant and in the GREEN zone will be significant; the AMBER zone designates potentially acceptable outcome and statistical tests may be significant or non-significant.

Results

For example, in relation to treatment fidelity, if we assume the upper boundary of the RED zone is 50% and the lower boundary of the GREEN zone is 75% (designating unacceptable and acceptable treatment fidelity, respectively), the sample size required for analysis given 90% power and one-sided 5% alpha would be around n = 34 (intervention group alone). Observed treatment fidelity in the range of 0–17 participants (0–50%) will fall into the RED zone and be statistically non-significant, 18–25 (51–74%) fall into AMBER and may or may not be significant and 26–34 (75–100%) fall into GREEN and will be significant indicating acceptable fidelity.

Discussion

In general, several key process outcomes are assessed for progression to a main trial; a composite approach would require appraising the rules of progression across all these outcomes. This methodology provides a formal framework for hypothesis testing and sample size indication around process outcome evaluation for pilot RCTs.
Postprandial effects of macronutrient composition meals on the metabolic responses and arterial stiffness indices of lean and obese male adults: a protocol of a pilot study
Authors: Firouzi Safieh , Rezvani Reza , Pahlavani Naseh , Jarahi Lida , Navashenaq Jamshid Gholizadeh , Ranjbar Golnaz , Malekahmadi Mahsa , Taherzadeh Zhila , Safarian Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Background

Prior studies have shown that meal composition may affect the metabolic responses and arterial stiffness indices, and these responses may be different in lean and obese adults. The primary objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of conducting a trial to compare the effect of three test meals in lean and obese men. Due to the lack of a comprehensive study that concurrently compares metabolic responses and vascular stiffness indices after receiving three different meals in lean and obese men, this pilot study will be conducted with a three-phase parallel design, aiming to investigate the effects of meal composition on the metabolic parameters and arterial stiffness indices of lean and obese adults.

Methods

This pilot, a parallel clinical trial will be performed on 24 male adults aged 18–35 years since January 2021 and will continue until March 2021 who are disease-free and selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The subjects will complete three interventions at a 1-week interval, including high carbohydrate (70% carbohydrates, 10% protein, 20% fat), high protein (30% protein, 50% carbohydrates, 20% fat), and high-fat meal (50% fat, 40% carbohydrates, 10% protein). Postprandial effects will be assessed within 360 min after each meal, including the energy expenditure component (resting energy expenditure, thermic effects of feeding, respiratory quotient, and substrate oxidation) and arterial stiffness indices (augmentation index and pulse wave velocity). In addition, blood sampling will be performed to measure glucose, insulin, free fatty acids, and lipid profile.

Discussion

The differences in the postprandial responses can affect the metabolic and vascular parameters due to different meal compositions, thereby providing beneficial data for the establishment of new strategies in terms of nutritional education and metabolic/vascular improvement. Also, the results from this pilot study will inform intervention refinement and efficacy testing of the intervention in a larger randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; code: IRCT20190818044552N1; registered on August 26, 2019
Ethical considerations for engaging frail and seriously ill patients as partners in research: sub-analysis of a systematic review
Authors: Ludwig Claire , Graham Ian D. , Lavoie Josee , Gifford Wendy , Stacey Dawn
Published: January 2021

Background

The commitment to engage patients as partners in research has been described as a political, moral and ethical imperative. Researchers feel ill-equipped to deal with potential ethical implications of engaging patients as partners. The aim of this study is to identify the ethical considerations related to engaging frail and seriously ill (FSI) patients as partners in research.

Methods

We conducted a sub-analysis of a prior systematic review of 30 studies that engaged FSI patients as partners in research. Studies were included if they reported ethical considerations associated with partnering. We performed deductive content analysis, data were categorized according to Beauchamp and Childress’ Principles of Biomedical Ethics (2019): autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, and justice.

Results

Twenty-five studies were included. Common ethical considerations reported in relation to the principles were: autonomy – promoting desired level of involvement, addressing relational and intellectual power, facilitating knowledge and understanding of research; non-maleficence – protection from financial burden, physical and emotional suffering; beneficence – putting things right for others, showing value-added, and supporting patient-partners; and, justice – achieving appropriate representation, mutual respect for contributions, and distributing risks and benefits.

Conclusions

When partnering with FSI patients, research teams need to establish shared values and ensure processes are in place to identify and address ethical issues. Researchers and patients should work together to clarify the intent and outcomes of the partnership, actively address power differentials, recognize and minimize the potential for unintended harm, and strive to maximize the benefits of partnership.

Systematic review registration

The protocol for the original systematic review has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews PROSPERO (CRD42019127994).
Immune cell labelling and tracking: implications for adoptive cell transfer therapies
Authors: Galli Filippo , Varani Michela , Lauri Chiara , Silveri Guido Gentiloni , Onofrio Livia , Signore Alberto
Published: February 2021

Background

The understanding of the role of different immune cell subsets that infiltrate tumors can help researchers in developing new targeted immunotherapies to reactivate or reprogram them against cancer. In addition to conventional drugs, new cell-based therapies, like adoptive cell transfer, proved to be successful in humans. Indeed, after the approval of anti-CD19 CAR-T cell therapy, researchers are trying to extend this approach to other cancer or cell types.

Main body

This review focuses on the different approaches to non-invasively monitor the biodistribution, trafficking and fate of immune therapeutic cells, evaluating their efficacy at preclinical and clinical stages. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for published articles on the imaging of cell tracking in humans and preclinical models.

Conclusion

Labelling specific immune cell subtypes with specific radiopharmaceuticals, contrast agents or optical probes can elucidate new biological mechanisms or predict therapeutic outcome of adoptive cell transfer therapies. To date, no technique is considered the gold standard to image immune cells in adoptive cell transfer therapies.
Unstimulated whole salivary flow in Sjögren’s Syndrome: systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Martínez-Ceballos María Alejandra , Aguilera Natalia , Garzón-González Kenny Carolina , Cajamarca-Baron Jairo , Alzate-Granados Juan Pablo , Rojas-Villarraga Adriana
Published: February 2021

Background

Sjögren’s Syndrome compromises the exocrine function, producing xerostomia and xerophthalmia. It can appear as an isolated condition or associated with other autoimmune diseases (polyautoimmunity). The Unstimulated Salivary Flow rate (UWSF) is used to quantify saliva production. There is no objective evidence to differentiate the values in patients with Sjögren’s versus healthy people or patients with non-Sjögren’s sicca. The objective of the present review was to evaluate the UWSF in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome in comparison to controls (healthy and non-Sjögren’s sicca patients).

Methods

A systematic literature review was carried out (PRISMA guidelines). Analytical observational studies of cases and controls, cross-sectional studies, cohort studies and randomized clinical trials (including healthy controls) were considered. The Medline/OVID, Lilacs, Embase, and Cochrane/OVID databases were consulted. MeSH, DeCS, keywords, and Boolean operators were used. The meta-analysis (RevMan 5.2) was done through the random-effects model [mean difference (MD)]. Level and quality of evidence were evaluated by the Oxford Center Levels of Evidence and Joanna Brigs list respectively.

Results

Thirty-two articles were included (20 were case-control studies, 6 were cross-sectional, 2 prospective cohort, 2 retrospective cohort, and 2 studies were abstracts) and 28 were meta-analyzed. The unstimulated whole salivary flow rate in the Sjögren’s group was lower than in controls (healthy and patients with non-Sjögren Sicca syndrome) (MD-0.18 ml/min; 95% CI, − 0.24 to − 0.13; chi2-P-value < 0.00001). Heterogeneity was 97% and there was publication bias (funnel plot). The level of evidence was mostly 3 or 4. The quality of evidence was met (97% of items valued).

Conclusion

For the first time, the unstimulated whole salivary flow rate is found to be lower in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome compared to controls (healthy and non-SS sicca) through a meta-analysis.

Trial registration

PROSPERO CRD42020211325.
Development and rapid evaluation of services to support the physical health of people using psychiatric inpatient units during the COVID-19 pandemic: study protocol
Authors:   IMPHS group, Williams Julie , Fairbairn Elli , McGrath Ray , Clark Amy , Healey Andy , Bakolis Ioannis , Gaughran Fiona , Sadler Euan , Khadjesari Zarnie , Sevdalis Nick
Published: February 2021

Background

People diagnosed with a serious mental illness have worse physical health and lower life expectancy than the general population. Integration of mental and physical health services is seen as one service development that could better support this. This protocol describes the evaluation of the provision of a Virtual Physical Health Clinic (VPHC) and Consultant Connect (CC) services to one UK-based mental health Trust.

Methods

Prospective, formative, pragmatic evaluation using both quantitative and qualitative techniques and driven by implementation science theoretical frameworks. The VPHC and CC are described along with the methodology being used to rapidly evaluate their implementation, effectiveness and potential economic impact in order to inform future roll out. We will assess the implementation process through quantitative data on uptake and reach and through self-reported data to be collected from interviews and the use of validated implementation outcome assessment measures. We will assess implementation strategies using the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) strategies as a framework. We will assess the health economic impact of both services using established health economic methods including cost comparison scenarios and health service utilisation analyses.

Discussion

Supporting the physical health management of people in psychiatric inpatient units is important in improving the physical health of this population. Integration of mental and physical health can help this to happen effectively. This initiative provides one of the first service evaluation protocols of its kind to be reported in the UK at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Teaching Lebanon’s Politics in Times of the Uprising
Authors: Mouawad Jamil
Published: February 2021

This article looks at Lebanon’s October 17 uprising from the vantage point of teaching in academia when classes were suspended and students were no longer meeting in the classroom to participate in a course of high relevance aiming to address and unpack the unfolding events on the streets. It argues that an engaged academic should not only preach to the converted but, more importantly, should account for those who feel disempowered or estranged, indifferent to “politics in action,” alienated for political reasons, or opposed to the protests.
Can Structural Changes Fix the Supreme Court?
Authors: Hemel Daniel
Published: February 2021

Proposals for structural changes to the US Supreme Court have attracted attention in recent years amid a perceived “legitimacy crisis” afflicting the institution. This article first assesses whether the court is in fact facing a legitimacy crisis and then considers whether prominent reform proposals are likely to address the institutional weaknesses that reformers aim to resolve. The article concludes that key trends purportedly contributing to the crisis at the court are more ambiguous in their empirical foundations and normative implications than reformers often suggest. It also argues that prominent reform proposals—including term limits, age limits, lottery selection of justices, and explicit partisan balance requirements for court membership—are unlikely to resolve the institutional flaws that proponents perceive. It ends by suggesting a more modest (though novel) reform, which would allocate two lifetime appointments per presidential term and allow the size of the court to fluctuate within bounds.
iCAT: diagnostic assessment tool of immunological history using high-throughput T-cell receptor sequencing
Authors: Rajeh Ahmad , Wolf Kyle , Schiebout Courtney , Sait Nabeel , Kosfeld Tim , DiPaolo Richard J. , Ahn Tae-Hyuk
Published: February 2021

The pathogen exposure history of an individual is recorded in their T-cell repertoire and can be accessed through the study of T-cell receptors (TCRs) if the tools to identify them were available. For each T-cell, the TCR loci undergoes genetic rearrangement that creates a unique DNA sequence. In theory these unique sequences can be used as biomarkers for tracking T-cell responses and cataloging immunological history. We developed the immune Cell Analysis Tool (iCAT), an R software package that analyzes TCR sequencing data from exposed (positive) and unexposed (negative) samples to identify TCR sequences statistically associated with positive samples. The presence and absence of associated sequences in samples trains a classifier to diagnose pathogen-specific exposure. We demonstrate the high accuracy of iCAT by testing on three TCR sequencing datasets. First, iCAT successfully diagnosed smallpox vaccinated versus naïve samples in an independent cohort of mice with 95% accuracy. Second, iCAT displayed 100% accuracy classifying naïve and monkeypox vaccinated mice. 

Finally, we demonstrate the use of iCAT on human samples before and after exposure to SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind the COVID-19 global pandemic. We were able to correctly classify the exposed samples with perfect accuracy. These experimental results show that iCAT capitalizes on the power of TCR sequencing to simplify infection diagnostics. iCAT provides the option of a graphical, user-friendly interface on top of usual R interface allowing it to reach a wider audience.
Interactive SARS-CoV-2 mutation timemaps
Authors: Warren René L. , Birol Inanc
Published: February 2021

As the year 2020 came to a close, several new strains have been reported of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the agent responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that has afflicted us all this past year. However, it is difficult to comprehend the scale, in sequence space, geographical location and time, at which SARS-CoV-2 mutates and evolves in its human hosts. To get an appreciation for the rapid evolution of the coronavirus, we built interactive scalable vector graphics maps that show daily nucleotide variations in genomes from the six most populated continents compared to that of the initial, ground-zero SARS-CoV-2 isolate sequenced at the beginning of the year.

Availability: The tool used to perform the reported mutation analysis results, ntEdit, is available from GitHub. Genome mutation reports are available for download from BCGSC. Mutation time maps are available from https://bcgsc.github.io/SARS2/.
A Nenets vocabulary from the archive of Vladimir Evladov in Salekhard
Authors: Lyublinskaya Marina
Published: February 2021

The archive of the Salekhard District Museum and Exhibition Complex named after I. S. Šemanovskij hosts a Tundra Nenets word list which was compiled for a practical dictionary by the topographer and land surveyor Vladimir Petrovič Evladov. Evladov collected this material between 1926 and 1935 during three expeditions to the Yamal Peninsula. He also consulted with students of the Institute of Northern Peoples in Leningrad. The material consists of two word lists, a Nenets-Russian and a Russian- Nenets one. The material reflects Tundra Nenets pronunciation and the meaning of lexemes around these years. It is important for studies on the period of language construction in Soviet Russia. We publish here the Nenets-Russian vocabulary in the Unified Northern Alphabet.

Kokkuvõte. Marina Ljublinskaja: Neenetsi sõnastik Vladimir Evladovi arhiivist Salehardis. Salehardi I. S. Šemanovskij nimelises ringkonnamuuseumis ja näitusekompleksis asub tundraneenetsi sõnaloend, mille koostas praktilise sõnastikuna topograaf ja maamõõtja Vladimir Petrovič Evladov, kes kogus selle jaoks materjali oma ekspeditsioonil 1926. ja 1935. aasta vahel. Ka konsulteeris ta Leningradis Põhjarahvaste Instituudi üliõpilastega. Andmestik koosneb kahest sõnaloendist: üks neenetsi-vene suunal ja teine vene-neenetsi suunal. Materjal kajastab tolleaegset tundraneenetsi hääldust ja lekseemide tähendusi ja on oluline uurimaks keelekonstrueerimise perioodi Nõukogude Venemaal. Uurimus sisaldab neenetsi-vene sõnastikku ühtses põhjarahvaste tähestikus.

Аннотация. Марина Люблинская: Ненецкий словарь из архива В. П. Евладова в Салехарде. В архиве музейно-выставочного комплекса в городе Салехарде (ЯНАО) хранятся списки слов на ненецком языке, собранные топографом и землеустроителем В. П. Евладовым. Слова были записаны в 1926–35 годах во время исследовательских экспедиций по Ямалу для составления практического словаря. Между поездками Евладов обсуждал материал с ненецкими студентами института Народов Севера в Ленинграде. Готовилось два словаря – ненецко-русский и русско-ненецкий, которые так и не были изданы. Записи Евладова передают произношение и значене ненецких слов в начале XX века. Также материал значим для изучения периода языкового строительства в Советской России. Ниже публикуется ненецко-русская часть словаря, записанная Единым Северным алфавитом.
Comparative assessment of agility in girls aged 11–13 years who practise or do not practise sports
Authors: Stamm Raini , Stamm Meelis , Van Dajana
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to test and assess agility of young girls aged 11–13 years and to find whether agility differs in girls who practise sports and in those who do not. The subjects of the study were 60 girls 30 of whom practised sports or attended workouts and 30 did not. To conduct the study, six agility tests taken from J. Dawes and M. Roozen’s book Developing Agility and Quickness were used. The study revealed differences in agility between the girls who practised sports and who did not. The comparison of mean results showed that in all six agility tests statistically significant differences existed between athletes and nonathletes. The mean results of girls who practised sports were statistically significantly better than those of the girls who did not. The greatest differences in comparison of the mean results of nonathletes and athletes were revealed in T-test and four corners jump test. Therefore, we recommend using them for assessment of agility in different physical ability test complexes, as they were the most informative among the tests studied. Based on our results, we can recommend to young people and their coaches that, although agility is believed to be an inborn ability, it should be developed by means of sports, motion and workouts. The results show that the girls who practise sports are more agile than those who do not.
Intra-articular administration of glucocorticosteroids in the practice of a rheumatologist
Authors: Panina Elena
Published: February 2021

Intra-articular and periarticular use of drugs for the purpose of relieving inflammation of the synovial membrane or periarthritis is an integral part of the complex pathogenetic treatment of joint diseases. Effectiveness of local therapy with glucocorticosteroids (GCS )there is no doubt and depends on a number of factors, which should include the correct assessment of indications and contraindications, the correct choice of the drug, its dosage and technique of manipulation. The use of this method can significantly reduce the time of industrial and/or household disability in this extensive category of patients.However, the doctor's ignorance or disregard of the mandatory conditions and requirements for performing this minor surgical manipulation can lead to undesirable, including severe, discrediting consequences of the valuable method. Postgraduate training of doctors helps to solve the problem of non-professional approach to the appointment and conduct of intra-articular and periarticular manipulations using GCS.
Multivariable Branching: A 0-1 Knapsack Problem Case Study
Authors: Yang Yu , Boland Natashia , Savelsbergh Martin
Published: February 2021

We explore the benefits of multivariable branching schemes for linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithms for the 0-1 knapsack problem—that is, the benefits of branching on sets of variables rather than on a single variable (the current default in integer-programming solvers). We present examples where multivariable branching has advantages over single-variable branching and partially characterize situations in which this happens. Chvátal shows that for a specific class of 0-1 knapsack instances, a linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithm (employing a single-variable branching scheme) must explore exponentially many nodes. We show that for this class of 0-1 knapsack instances, a linear-programming-based branch-and-bound algorithm employing an appropriately chosen multivariable branching scheme explores either three or seven nodes. Finally, we investigate the performance of various multivariable branching schemes for 0-1 knapsack instances computationally and demonstrate their potential; the multivariable branching schemes explored result in smaller search trees (some in search trees that are an order of magnitude smaller), and some also result in shorter solution times.

Summary of Contribution: As a powerful modeling tool, mixed-integer programming (MIP) is ubiquitous in Operations Research and is usually solved via the branch-and-bound framework. However, solving MIPs is computationally challenging in general, where branching affects the performance of solvers dramatically. In this paper, we explore the benefits of branching on multiple variables, which can be viewed as a generalization of the standard single-variable branching. We analyze its theoretical behavior on a special instance introduced by Chvátal, which is proved to be hard for single-variable branching. We also partially characterize situations in which branching on multiple variables is superior to its single-variable counterpart. Lastly, we demonstrate its potential in reducing the overall computational time and possible memory usage for storing unexplored nodes through numerical experiments on 0-1 knapsack problems.
Nitrogen Test Tool in Rice Leaves Based on Android Application
Authors: Darso Muhammad , Yudhana Anton
Published: February 2021

This study aims to make an application for measuring nitrogen requirements in rice leaves based on an android application. The method used is the On Touch Motion Event. The onTouch method will be used when a touch will be sent to be displayed, then MotionEvent contains information about the touch made. System testing is carried out to display images using the Open Camera button using a smartphone camera, after that look for the RGB value then convert it to the BWD scale. This research has succeeded in building an application that can determine nitrogen levels in rice leaves through leaf color and provide recommendations for the amount of fertilization according to the desired results. The results of tests that have been carried out on 6 samples of rice leaves with 60 samples of RGB value data produce an accuracy rate of using the application of 78.33% and the remaining 21.66% is an error value. And how to calculate the land area, the results obtained from the need for urea per plant in 1 ha are 120 kg, where the BWD table shows the value of leaf color on a scale of 2-3 and requires a urea measurement of 100 which is estimated to get a yield rate of 6 t / ha.
Research on the Beam Damage Diagnosis Method for a High-Speed Transplanter Based on the Strain Mode
Authors: Ji Jiangtao , Chen Kaikang , Jin Xin , Pang Jing , Chen Xing , Wang Zhaoyang , Fan Jingyuan
Published: February 2021

Abstract.

The vibration of agricultural machinery significantly influences driving comfort and operation reliability. In recent years, research on the vibrational characteristics of agricultural machinery has gradually expanded. To solve the problem of the obvious vibration of a high-speed transplanter under operating conditions, this article examines the method of beam damage diagnosis for high-speed transplanters based on the strain mode. Based on the modal theory, the displacement and strain modal analysis of the beam of the high-speed transplanter is performed. The analysis shows that the relative deviation of the modal frequencies of the same order before and after the beam is damaged is small. There is no obvious abrupt change in the displacement mode shape, while the strain mode shape has a sudden change peak after the beam is damaged. Thus, the strain mode change rate is constructed as a diagnostic index for beam damage. The analysis results show that the strain mode change rate increases with the increase in beam damage degree. Finally, the least squares method is used to fit the corresponding relationship between the two quantities. The results show that the strain mode change rate is sensitive and reliable as an index of damage diagnosis, which can better determine the location and degree of damage to the beam. Keywords: Beam, Damage, Diagnosis, Rice transplanter, Strain mode.
Development of a Wireless Sensor Network for Field Level Strawberry Disease Alert Systems
Authors: Onofre Thiago Borba , Fraisse Clyde W. , McNair Janise , Judge, Jasmeet , Zotarelli Lincoln , Peres Natalia A.
Published: February 2021

Highlights

Fungal diseases are considered a major challenge for strawberry farmers.

Disease risk monitoring systems can be improved with increased spatial coverage of environmental conditions.

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) with customized nodes can efficiently collect site-specific data inputs for disease risk models.

WSN providing disease risk levels with increased spatial and temporal resolution opens the opportunity for site-specific control actions.

Abstract. The United States is the world’s largest producer of strawberries, harvesting over 680 million metric tons in 2017, valued at approximately $3.2 billion. Fungal diseases are considered a major challenge for strawberry farmers. Even in well-managed fields, losses from fungal diseases can exceed 50% when environmental conditions favor disease development. Anthracnose fruit rot (AFR), caused by Colletotrichum acutatum and Botrytis fruit rot (BFR), caused by Botrytis cinerea, are the most significant diseases monitored (or present) during strawberry production in Central Florida and worldwide. The Strawberry Advisory System (SAS) was developed by researchers at the University of Florida to alert strawberry growers of infection risk of AFR and BFR. SAS also recommends control actions when necessary. In Florida, the SAS uses leaf wetness duration and temperature observed at Florida Automated Weather Network (FAWN) stations and private weather stations to estimate strawberry disease risk. A good representation of local conditions is crucial, but unfortunately uncommon in modern fungal disease warning systems (FDWS), such as the SAS. In this study, we developed and deployed an in-field Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) with customized nodes (WetBerry). WetBerry is a distributed mesh network of wireless mini weather stations equipped with leaf wetness, temperature, and relative humidity sensors developed to monitor in-field environmental conditions related to the risk of fungal diseases in strawberry production. The WSN mini weather stations were installed and tested in a strawberry field during the 2017/2018 strawberry season, and the results were validated against a standard agrometeorological weather station. The WSN provided high spatial and temporal density of weather data for agricultural applications, thereby has the potential to improve the capabilities of site-specific fungal disease warning tools and control actions. Keywords: Decision making, Fungal disease, Leaf wetness, Precision agriculture, Site-specific, WSN.
An Open-Sourced Web Application for Aerial Applicators to Avoid Spray Drift Caused by Temperature Inversion
Authors: Huang Yanbo , Fisher D. K.
Published: February 2021

Highlights

A web application for guiding data calculated from distributed weather data through open-source cloud service.

A design scheme of portable weather stations built from inexpensive open-source electronics.

Integration of open-source hardware and software for online guiding data to avoid drift caused by temperature inversion.

Abstract. It is important for agricultural chemical applicators to follow proper spray procedures to prevent susceptible crops, animals, people, or other living organisms from being injured far downwind. Spraying during stable atmospheric conditions should be avoided to prevent surface-temperature inversion-induced off-target drift of crop protection materials. Previous statistical analysis determined times of high likelihood of stable atmospheric conditions, which are unfavorable for spraying, during the day under clear and cloudy conditions in hot summer months in the Mississippi Delta. Results validated the thresholds of temperature increase in the morning and temperature drop in the afternoon with wind speeds and the transition between stable and unstable atmospheric conditions. With this information, an algorithm was developed to calculate if atmospheric conditions were favorable for spraying based on field temperature and wind speed at any instant. With this algorithm, a web application was built to provide real-time determination of atmospheric stability and hourly online recommendation of whether aerial applications were appropriate for a location and time in the Mississippi Delta. This study further developed another web application specifically for Stoneville, Mississippi, with data measured from weather stations constructed from inexpensive open-source electronics, accessories, and software for more accurate online guidance for site-specific drift management. The web application is adapted for accessing on mobile terminals, such as smartphones and tablets, and provides timely guidance for aerial applicators and producers to avoid spray drift and air quality issues long distances downwind in the area. Keywords: Open-source hardware, Open-source software, Spray drift, Temperature inversion, Web application.
Evaluation of Low-Cost Optical Particle Counters for Agricultural Exposure Measurements
Authors: Olegario Justine M. , Regmi Swastika , Sousan Sinan
Published: February 2021

Highlights

The OPC-N3, developed by Alphasense, may be useful in measuring occupational exposure in agricultural settings based on the agreement with mass concentrations measured by gravimetrical filter analysis.

The AirBeam2 is better suited for environmental exposure measurements rather than occupational measurements.

Particle sizing by the GRIMM Mini-WRAS 1371 and the OPC-N3 show many aerosols that agricultural workers are exposed to follow a bimodal curve and are above 0.1 µm, thereby the respirator used as personal protective equipment is effective in filtering out aerosols in this occupation.

Abstract. Prolonged exposure to dust has been shown to have adverse health effects in agricultural workers, primarily with the development of respiratory diseases. Low-cost sensors may be cost-effective tools for farmers to determine when they are exposed to harmful levels of dust during their workday. The purpose of this study was to identify low-cost sensors that may be reliably used in occupational settings to help workers and employers identify respirable particle matter exposure. The study utilized two different low-cost optical particle counters (OPCs) to collect data on dust exposure, which were worn on a belt by the participant: the OPC-N3 developed by Alphasense and the AirBeam2 developed by HabitatMap. Additionally, an AirChek TOUCH air sampling pump fit with a respirable dust aluminum cyclone allowed for the collection of respirable particulate matter (PM4) to determine the true concentration of exposure. Results show that the PM4 measurements made by the OPC-N3 are similar to the gravimetrical filter measurement at concentrations of < 50 µg/m3. In addition, the data analysis suggests that the AirBeam2 may be significantly underestimating the amount of particulate matter that farmworkers are exposed to and therefore may not be suitable for occupational exposure measurements compared to the OPC-N3. Keywords: Aerosols, Agriculture, AirBeam2, Dust, Exposure, Low-cost, Occupational, Optical particle counter, OPC-N3.
Generating Nitrate and Nitrite on Green Oak Lettuce in Hydroponic Farming by Plasma System
Authors: Leksakul Komgrit , Vichiansan Norrapon , Kaewkham Pisit , Hattaphasu Boonprathan , Boonyawan Dheerawan
Published: February 2021

Highlights

Abstract. In this study, we developed an effective methodology to determine the suitable plasma-based generating system of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) targeting hydroponic farming systems using a full factorial design with center points and blocking. A 2k with 2 blockings plus 2 center points design was employed in the experiment to develop an efficient analytical model for nitrogen solution concentration and hydroponic vegetable growth incorporating the plasma discharge system process parameters, including water flow rate, plasma discharge duration, and air flow rate. This study designed and constructed an air plasma discharge system with DC power supply. Thereafter, nitrogen solution was generated under a parameter conditions setting by the design of experiments (DOE) method. RNS solution, which contained nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) ions with P and K added, was passed through the hydroponic system for growing green oak lettuce. The most promising plasma-generated nitrogen solution parameters were obtained for this set up at a water flow rate of 6 L/min, discharge duration of 60 min, and activated air flow rate of 60 mL/min. Keywords: Nitrate, Nitrite, Plasma discharge, Reactive nitrogen species.