bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test Methodologies for Evaluating the Effectiveness of sUAS Communication Links for Operation in Indoor and Subterranean Environments
Authors: Meriaux Edwin , Weitzen Jay , Yoni Naye , Norton Adam
Published: June 2023

This article presents a set of nondestructive test methodologies designed to evaluate and compare performance of the communication links used for control and telemetry of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) (drones) that are operating indoors and in subterranean environments. Such a set of standardized test methodologies does not yet exist. Indoor and subterranean operation requires sUAS to operate without global positioning system and often in a spatially constrained non-line-of-sight (NLOS) communication environment. Operating in constrained indoor environments puts additional constraints on the communication links and requires a set of tests to allow evaluation and comparison of different units in typical scenarios that will be encountered. Tests to measure and compare communication link performance and ability to pilot in tunnels and office type buildings with doors, walls, and other obstructions, as well as stairwells are described. The test methods consist of measuring and comparing the NLOS radio range between the sUAS and the ground control station or operator control unit (OCU), observing the sUAS behavior with partial or total communication failure. Near the edge of coverage, correlated packet loss can lead to difficulties in piloting. A methodology for evaluating video latency that is critical for remote piloting by camera only is presented. Finally, a test methodology for characterizing the effects of interference and jamming by waveforms such as Wi-Fi often encountered in buildings is described. These test methodologies described here extend standards developed for ground robots to three dimensions. The test methodologies described in this article are part of a multifaceted project that evaluates many essential elements of drone operation indoors. These include communication, navigation, collision tolerance, mapping, trust, and automation. The test methodologies are designed to be reproduced in user facilities.
Two Ascending Thermosensory Pathways from the Lateral Parabrachial Nucleus That Mediate Behavioral and Autonomous Thermoregulation
Authors: Yahiro Takaki , Kataoka Naoya , Nakamura Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

Thermoregulatory behavior in homeothermic animals is an innate behavior to defend body core temperature from environmental thermal challenges in coordination with autonomous thermoregulatory responses. In contrast to the progress in understanding the central mechanisms of autonomous thermoregulation, those of behavioral thermoregulation remain poorly understood. We have previously shown that the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB) mediates cutaneous thermosensory afferent signaling for thermoregulation. To understand the thermosensory neural network for behavioral thermoregulation, in the present study, we investigated the roles of ascending thermosensory pathways from the LPB in avoidance behavior from innocuous heat and cold in male rats. Neuronal tracing revealed two segregated groups of LPB neurons projecting to the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO), a thermoregulatory center (LPB→MnPO neurons), and those projecting to the central amygdaloid nucleus (CeA), a limbic emotion center (LPB→CeA neurons). While LPB→MnPO neurons include separate subgroups activated by heat or cold exposure of rats, LPB→CeA neurons were only activated by cold exposure. By selectively inhibiting LPB→MnPO or LPB→CeA neurons using tetanus toxin light chain or chemogenetic or optogenetic techniques, we found that LPB→MnPO transmission mediates heat avoidance, whereas LPB→CeA transmission contributes to cold avoidance.In vivoelectrophysiological experiments showed that skin cooling-evoked thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue requires not only LPB→MnPO neurons but also LPB→CeA neurons, providing a novel insight into the central mechanism of autonomous thermoregulation. Our findings reveal an important framework of central thermosensory afferent pathways to coordinate behavioral and autonomous thermoregulation and to generate the emotions of thermal comfort and discomfort that drive thermoregulatory behavior.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCoordination of behavioral and autonomous thermoregulation is important for maintaining thermal homeostasis in homeothermic animals. However, the central mechanism of thermoregulatory behaviors remains poorly understood. We have previously shown that the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB) mediates ascending thermosensory signaling that drives thermoregulatory behavior. In this study, we found that one pathway from the LPB to the median preoptic nucleus mediates heat avoidance, whereas the other pathway from the LPB to the central amygdaloid nucleus is required for cold avoidance. Surprisingly, both pathways are required for skin cooling-evoked thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue, an autonomous thermoregulatory response. This study provides a central thermosensory network that coordinates behavioral and autonomous thermoregulation and generates thermal comfort and discomfort that drive thermoregulatory behavior.
Brief Temporal Perturbations in Somatosensory Reafference Disrupt Perceptual and Neural Attenuation and Increase Supplementary Motor Area–Cerebellar Connectivity
Authors: Kilteni Konstantina , Houborg Christian , Ehrsson H. Henrik
Published: June 2023

Intrinsic delays in sensory feedback can be detrimental for motor control. As a compensation strategy, the brain predicts the sensory consequences of movement via a forward model on the basis of a copy of the motor command. Using these predictions, the brain attenuates somatosensory reafference to facilitate the processing of exafferent information. Theoretically, this predictive attenuation is disrupted by (even minimal) temporal errors between the predicted and actual reafference; however, direct evidence of such disruption is lacking as previous neuroimaging studies contrasted nondelayed reafferent input with exafferent input. Here, we combined psychophysics with functional magnetic resonance imaging to test whether subtle perturbations in the timing of somatosensory reafference disrupt its predictive processing. Twenty-eight participants (14 women) generated touches on their left index finger by tapping a sensor with their right index finger. The touches on the left index finger were delivered close to the time of contact of the two fingers or with a temporal perturbation (i.e., 153 ms delay). We found that such a brief temporal perturbation disrupted the attenuation of the somatosensory reafference at both the perceptual and neural levels, leading to greater somatosensory and cerebellar responses and weaker somatosensory connectivity with the cerebellum, proportional to the perceptual changes. We interpret these effects as the failure of the forward model to predictively attenuate the perturbed somatosensory reafference. Moreover, we observed increased connectivity of the supplementary motor area with the cerebellum during the perturbations, which could indicate the communication of the temporal prediction error back to the motor centers.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTOur brain receives somatosensory feedback from our movements with a delay. To counteract these delays, motor control theories postulate that the brain predicts the timing of somatosensory consequences of our movements and attenuates sensations received at that time. Thus, a self-generated touch feels weaker than an identical external touch. However, how subtle temporal errors between the predicted and actual somatosensory feedback perturb this predictive attenuation remains unknown. We show that such errors make the otherwise attenuated touch feel stronger, elicit stronger somatosensory responses, weaken cerebellar connectivity with somatosensory areas, and increase this connectivity with motor areas. These findings show that motor and cerebellar areas are fundamental in forming temporal predictions about the sensory consequences of our movements.
Tmem117 in AVP neurons regulates the counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia
Authors: Gaspari Sevasti , Labouèbe Gwenaël , Picard Alexandre , Berney Xavier , Rodriguez Sanchez‐Archidona Ana , Thorens Bernard
Published: June 2023

The counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia (CRR), which ensures a sufficient glucose supply to the brain, is an essential survival function. It is orchestrated by incompletely characterized glucose‐sensing neurons, which trigger a coordinated autonomous and hormonal response that restores normoglycemia. Here, we investigate the role of hypothalamic Tmem117, identified in a genetic screen as a regulator of CRR. We show that Tmem117 is expressed in vasopressin magnocellular neurons of the hypothalamus. Tmem117 inactivation in these neurons increases hypoglycemia‐induced vasopressin secretion leading to higher glucagon secretion in male mice, and this effect is estrus cycle phase dependent in female mice. Ex vivo electrophysiological analysis, in situ hybridization, and in vivo calcium imaging reveal that Tmem117 inactivation does not affect the glucose‐sensing properties of vasopressin neurons but increases ER stress, ROS production, and intracellular calcium levels accompanied by increased vasopressin production and secretion. Thus, Tmem117 in vasopressin neurons is a physiological regulator of glucagon secretion, which highlights the role of these neurons in the coordinated response to hypoglycemia.
Estrategias de enseñanza y aprendizaje para maximizar el currículo operacional en el aprendizaje de una lengua extranjera: dos casos de estudio de estudiantes con discapacidad auditiva
Authors: Rojas Pinto Jennifer Kristine , Cubillo Ramírez Deyanira , Ramos Cordero Ivannia
Published: June 2023

This paper gathers the personal and academic experiences of theinclusion of a deaf and a hard-of-hearing students who took the integrated English courses for other majors I and III offered by the Service Courses Area of the School of Literature and Language Sciences (ELCL Spanish acronym) of the Universidad Nacional in Costa Rica. For this purpose, the professors share the practices and transformation processes of teaching and learningexperienced with these students and their interaction with their peers in the classroom as well as the required class management. According to the experiences evidenced, it is concluded that more information is required about the process of learning and teaching English as a foreign language for the deaf and hardof-hearing learners to achieve the transformation and flexibility of the operational and hidden curriculum in a more effective way to maximize an inclusive living, healthy and successful class living.
Modification of sugarcane bagasse with acetic anhydride and butyric anhydride in ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride
Authors: Chen Di , Zhang Ai-Ping , Liu Chuan-Fu , Sun Run-Cang
Published: June 2023

Bagasse acetate butyrates were prepared homogeneously in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([C4mim]Cl) ionic liquid from ball-milled sugarcane bagasse by acylation with acetic anhydride and butyric anhydride. The parameters, including reaction temperature, reaction time, feeding method of adding anhydrides, the dosage of total anhydrides to SCB, and the molar ratio of acetic anhydride to butyric anhydride, were considered, and the extent of acylation was measured by weight percent gain (WPG). The results showed the positive effects of reaction duration and total anhydride dosage on WPG and the negative effects of reaction temperature and molar ratio of AA/BA on WPG. The feeding method of acetylation after butyrylation resulted in the increased WPG compared with acetylation before butyrylation. FT-IR and 1H–13C correlation 2D NMR (HSQC) studies provided evidence for acylation. The bagasse acetate butyrates showed increased thermal stability after acylation. This study provides a new way for high value-added utilization of renewable lignocellulosic biomass.
Presence of water-soluble compounds in thermally modified wood: Carbohydrates and furfurals
Authors: Karlsson Olov , Torniainen Petteri , Dagbro Ola , Granlund Kurt , Morén Tom
Published: June 2023

With thermal modification, changes in properties of wood, such as the presence of VOC and water-soluble carbohydrates, may occur. Thermal modifications under saturated steam conditions (160 °C or 170 °C) and superheated steam conditions (170, 185, and 212 °C) were investigated by analysing the presence of water-soluble 5-(hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF), furfural, and carbohydrates in heat-treated wood. The influence of thermal modifications on Scots pine, Norway spruce, and silver birch was also studied. Furfurals were analysed using HPLC at 280 nm, while monosaccharides and water-soluble carbohydrates were determined by GC-FID as their acetylated alditiols and, after methanolysis, as their trimethylsilylated methyl-glycosides, respectively. The amount of furfurals was larger in boards thermally modified under saturated steam conditions than those treated under superheated steam conditions. Generally, more of HMF than furfural was found in the thermally modified boards. In process water, in which saturated steam conditions had been used, furfural and only traces of HMF were found. Higher content of water-soluble carbohydrates was found in boards treated in saturated steam rather than in superheated steam. After modification in saturated steam, substantial parts of the water-soluble carbohydrates were due to monosaccharides, but only traces of monosaccharides were found in boards treated under superheated steam conditions.
Alkaline peroxide mechanical pulping of novel Brazilian Eucalyptus hybrids
Authors: dos S. Muguet Marcelo C. , Colodette Jorge L. , Jääskeläinen Anna-Stiina
Published: June 2023

Eucalyptus wood is among the most important biomass resource in the world. Wood mechanical defibration and fibrillation are energy-intensive processes utilized not only to produce pulp for papermaking, but also to produce reinforcement fibers for biocomposites, nanocellulose, or pretreat lignocellulosic material for biofuels production. The structural features of different Eucalyptus hybrids affecting the refining energy consumption and produced fiber furnish properties were evaluated. The defibration and fiber development were performed using an alkaline peroxide mechanical pulping (APMP) process, which included chelation followed by an alkaline peroxide treatment prior to wood chip defibration. Despite the similar wood densities and chemical compositions of different Eucalyptus hybrids, there was a clear difference in the extent of defibration and fibrillation among the hybrids. The high energy consumption was related to a high amount of guaiacyl lignin. This observation is of major importance when considering the optimal wood hybrids for mechanical wood defibration and for understanding the fundamental phenomena taking place in chemi-mechanical defibration of wood.
Substrate characteristic analysis for anaerobic digestion: A study on rice and triticale straw
Authors: Teghammar Anna , Chandra Richard , Saddler Jack N. , Taherzadeh Mohammad J. , Sárvári Horváth Ilona
Published: June 2023

Different substrate characteristic analyses have been studied on rice and triticale straw pretreated with NMMO (N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide) prior to biogas production. Simons’ stain, water retention value (WRV), and enzymatic adsorption were used to measure the change in the accessible surface area of the lignocellulosic substrates. FTIR was used to measure the change in cellulosic crystallinity and Time-of-Flight-Secondary-Ion-Spectroscopy (ToF-SIMS) to measure the ratio of cellulose to lignin on the sample surface. All methods showed increased accessible surface area and a decrease in crystallinity after the pretreatments. These qualities were linked to improved biogas production. In the future, the tested methods could replace the time-consuming methane potential analysis to predict the methane production of lignocellulosic materials. Simons’ stain, enzymatic adsorption, and crystallinity measurement by FTIR can be regarded as the recommended methods for the prediction of the improved biogas production as a result of the pretreatment.
Dietary fiber production from sweet potato residue by solid state fermentation using the edible and medicinal fungus Schizophyllum commune
Authors: Wu Jianguo , Wang Hongxun , Yang Xialu , Wan Jilin , Liu Ping , Xu Qiwu , Tang Yong , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: June 2023

Dietary fiber (DF) has attracted increasing interest from nutritionists. The yield of DF by traditional extraction methods, however, is very low. This paper aims to increase the yield of DF by solid state fermentation using the edible and medicinal fungus Schizophyllum commune. Sweet potato residue (SPR) was selected as raw material for producing DF. Results showed that SPR was a good feedstock for DF production by solid state fermentation. Optimized conditions of solid state fermentation of SPR for DF were obtained as follows: material particle size = 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, water moisture at 65%, natural lighting radiation, and temperature at 27 °C. Under the optimal conditions, the yield and DF content in fermented SPR were more than 80% and 70%, respectively. The increased DF yield was mainly attributable to increased cellulose and hemicelluloses conversion. Swelling capacity, water-holding capacity, oil-holding capacity, and glucose absorption capacity of the fermented SPR were also determined, and the data indicated that the fermented SPR could be considered as a new good DF. Therefore, this work showed us a novel bioconversion method to produce high-quality DF, and the yield of DF increased 4-fold compared with traditional extraction methods.
Adsorption of toluene onto bleached eucalyptus pulp treated with ultrasound
Authors: Urruzola Iñaki , Andrés Maria Angeles , Serrano Luis , Labidi Jalel
Published: June 2023

Bleached kraft semichemical eucalyptus pulp was used as raw material to adsorb an organic compound, toluene, from aqueous solution. The pulp was sonicated with different powers and different times to obtain smaller cellulose fibers. The adsorption capacity for toluene of sonicated fibers and bleached eucalyptus pulp was measured by ultraviolet spectroscopy. The absorption capacity for toluene was increased considerably when cellulose nanofibres were obtained. The adsorption capacity of bleached eucalyptus pulp was 36 μmol/g, while sonicated fibres at 30 W and 20 hours increased the adsorption by 47% and at 50 W and 20 h increased it by 67% compared with untreated fibres. Visual examination and optical microscopy were used to observe the reduction of fibers width and the dispersion increase. Contact angle measurements were used to analyze the variation of hydrophilic character of cellulose. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to study variations introduced by the ultrasound treatments on the chemical structure of the samples. The adsorption capacity studies showed that the treatment with ultrasound improved the retention capacity of the fibres, increasing considerably the adsorption capacity when the fiber width approached the nanoscale.
Improving the bleachability of whole cotton stalk chemimechanical pulp with depectinization agents
Authors: Yang Huanlei , Li Qun , Niu Liping , Zhang Yujia
Published: June 2023

The effects of pretreatment agents on pectin removal and chemical compositions in cotton stalk bark were studied. The results showed that the reaction rates of the depectinization agents reacting with calcium pectinate were VNa2C2O4 > VNa5P3O10 > VNaOH . The ratio of pectin removal reached 53.73% after pretreatment with 3% sodium oxalate. When the parameters of precondition were 3% sodium oxalate, 90 °C, and bleaching with 6.5% NaOH and 11% H2O2, the brightness of chemimechanical pulp from whole cotton stalk reached 76.18% ISO.
Combined application of gamma radiation, cleaning and chemical sanitizers in decontamination of vehicle air conditioning filters
Authors: Aquino Simone , Alves de Lima José Eduardo , Borrely Sueli Ivone
Published: June 2023

This work aimed to analyze the fungal contamination of air-conditioning filter waste (n=15) as an indicator of Quality Air Indoor from different car models in São Paulo city in São Paulo State, Brazil, during the period from October 2018 to July 2019. Three different treatments were used for the decontamination of car air conditioning filters, such as mechanical vacuum cleaning (I), vacuum cleaning and use of sanitizing product (II), and sanitizing product associated with radiation treatment at a dose of 17 kGy (III). After the treatments, microbiological analyses were performed and samples were plated in Petri dishes containing Sabouraud agar transferred by Swabs, and incubated for 7 days at 25 °C. The Petri dishes were stored in a standard Biochemical Oxygen Demand incubator, for the growth of fungal cultures. After incubation, the fungal cultures were evaluated, and the fungal counting was expressed in unit-forming colonies (UFC) and frequency in samples (%). The fungi were examined by lactophenol blue solution staining for microscopy. All samples of treatment I and II were contaminated with various fungal genera and high bioburden, namely (treatment I) Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Cladosporium spp., Fusarium spp., Mucor spp., Nigrospora spp., Not Sporulated Fungi (NSF), Penicillium spp., Rhizopus spp., Rhodotorula spp., Trichoderma spp. and yeasts. Treatment II showed Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. ochraceus, Cladosporium spp., Mucor spp., NSF, Penicillium spp., Phoma spp., Rhizopus spp., Rhodotorula spp., Trichoderma spp., and yeasts. Treatment III presented NSF and yeasts, with 80% of material decontamination.
CONSUMPTION OF BROCCOLI SPROUTS INCREASED THE ACTIVITY OF GLUTATHIONE-DEPENDENT ANTIOXIDANT ENZYMES IN MURINE LIVER
Authors:   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, IVANOCHKO M.V.
Published: June 2023

Aim. The purpose of this work was to investigate effects of the consumption of broccoli sprouts on the activity of antioxidant defense enzymes in the liver of. GPx isoforms. After photo fixation of gels, we determined activity of each isoform densitometrically using ImageJ software. Results were statistically analyzed by ANOVA followed by post-hoc Tukey's test. Data are presented as mean±SEM. Methods. Frozen tissue was homozeniged in lysis buffer, centrifuged and resulted supernatants were used for analysis. Activities of enzymes were determined by using electrophoresis in polyacrylamide gel. After electrophoresis we conducted dyeing of separate gels for detection of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) or glutathione peroxidase (GPx) isoforms. After photo fixation of gels, we determined activity of each isoform densitometrically using ImageJ software. Results were statistically analyzed by ANOVA followed by post-hoc Tukey's test. Data are presented as mean±SEM. Results. In the hepatic tissue of all four groups of mice, two isoforms of SOD (SOD1 and SOD2) were detected in gels. The intensity of the bands of both isoforms was not significantly different between groups. Three isoforms of GST (GST1, GST2, GST3) were detected in the liver samples. The activity of GST1 did not significantly differ between the experimental groups. Activities of GST2 and GST3 forms were significantly higher in the group “Broccoli” compared to Control and Cafeteria Diet groups. We identified three isoforms of glutathione peroxidase (GPx1, GPx2, GPx3) in liver samples. The activity of GPx isoform 1 was not significantly different between the experimental groups. The activity of GPx2 was significantly higher in the group of mice that consumed Broccoli and Cafeteria Diet + Broccoli compared to Control. GPx2 activity was significantly higher in the Broccoli group compared to the Cafeteria Diet group. Activity of GPx3 was significantly higher in the Broccoli group compared to the Control and Cafeteria Diet group. Conclusions. Cafeteria diet did not significantly affect the activity of SOD isoforms, but led to redistribution of in the activity of GST and GPx isoforms in murine liver. Feeding with broccoli spouts significantly increased the activity of 2 and 3 isoforms of GST and GPx in murine liver compared to values in control mice and mice fed with cafeteria diet. Combination of Broccoli + Cafereria diet had small activating effects on antioxidant enzyme acivity, compared with cafeteria diet.
EFFECTS OF IMIDOPYRAN AND PREDNISONE IN THE TREATMENT OF BABESIOSIOSIS-ASSOCIATED ANEMIA IN DOGS
Authors:   Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, Ukraine, NEVIDNYK-PRAVDA A.Y.
Published: June 2023

Aim. To investigate the development and treatment with imidopyran and prednisolone of hemolytic anemia in dogs caused by the protozoan parasite Babesia canis. Methods. 17 domestic dogs weighing 5-10 kg aged 2-5 years were used for the study. The parameters of the general blood analysis were determined using the MicroCC-20 Plus automated hematology analyzer (HTI, USA). Microscopy with a Leica DM4 electric microscope (Germany) was carried out to study the condition of erythrocytes, counting the number of leukocytes and platelets. Results. The main indicator of the development of anemia in animals is the number of erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and hematocrit. Development of babesiosis lead to the hemolytic anemia investigated in dogs before treatment: the number of erythrocytes lower than normal by 20-30%, the level of hemoglobin 40-55%, the average concentration of hemoglobin in erythrocytes 10- 18%, hematocrit 20-30% and the number of platelets 40-50%. Conclusions. The results of the study showed that treatment with imidopyran and prednisolone is effective in cases of babesiosis for dogs caused by the protozoan parasite Babesia canis. Moreover, such treatment decreases the risks of the anemic state development for these animals.
Ex vivo STUDY OF THE ACTION OF INTEGRIN RECEPTORS ANTAGONIST FROM ECHIS MULTISQUAMATIS SNAKE VENOM ON PLATELETS OF PREGNANT WOMEN WITH COMPICATIONS DURING GESTATION
Authors:   Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, PLATONOV O. M.
Published: June 2023

Aim. In our work, we studied platelet aggregation in blood plasma of pregnant women and estimated the possibility of ex vivo normalization of aggregation rate using a polypeptide from the Echis multisquamatus snake venom. Previous reports demonstrated that it directly interacts with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptors on the surface of platelets, preventing their adhesion, thereby affecting the degree of aggregation. Methods. chromatography followed by size-exclusion chromatography on Superdex 75 using the FPLC system (ӒKTA, GE Healthcare, USA). Analysis of molecular weight of protein components was performed using SDS-PAGE. The concentration of protein was measured using spectrophotometer Optizen POP (Korea) at 280 nm. The ability of obtained protein to inhibit platelet aggregation was measured directly by aggregometry. Blood samples of women with placental disfunction during pregnancy (n = 28) were kindly provided by “Perinatal Center of Kyiv”. This study was approved by the Ethics Commission of the Shupyk National Medical Academy of Postgraduate Education and the Ethics Commission of the Kyiv Perinatal Center (# 3 from 05/05/2020). Aggregation of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) induced by ADP was investigated using aggregometry on the AP 2110 (Solar, Belarus). We compared the rate of platelet aggregation in the presence vs absence of platelet aggregation inhibitor. Results. Two-step chromatography protocol allowed us to obtain the polypeptide from the venom of Echis multisquamatus that possessed the anti-aggregatory action. SDS-PAGE analysis confirmed the homogeneity of obtained polypeptide with apparent molecular weight 14 kDa that corresponds to the platelet aggregation inhibitor reported earlier. Initial studies of ADPinduced platelet aggregation allowed selecting active concentration for the effective inhibitory action as 0.02 mg/ml. Conclusions. Platelet aggregation inhibitor from Echis multisquamatis snake venom of can be assumed as the effective agent that reduce the rate of platelet aggregation. We demonstrated it efficacy in platelet rich plasma of pregnant women that had placenta dysfunction. The use of direct antagonist of platelet integrin receptors was assumed as the prospective approach for suppressing of platelet reactivity in particular during complicated pregnancy.
STARVATION DURING DEVELOPMENT AFFECTS METABOLISM IN DROSOPHILA
Authors:   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine, STEFANYSHYN N. P.
Published: June 2023

Aim. To investigate how starvation during early stage of fly development affects carbohydrate metabolism in imago flies and their progeny of F1 generation. Methods. Wild-type Canton-S strain Drosophila melanogaster flies were used in all experiments. Flies of parental and offspring generations were used for the determination of glycogen and glucose content using the diagnostic kit Glucose-Mono-400-P according to the manufacturer's instructions. Results represent as the mean ± SEM of 3-4 replicates per group. According Student's t-test significant difference between groups was P<0.05. Graphing and statistical analysis were performed by using GraphPad Prism. Results. Starvation during development significantly influenced the level of hemolymph and body glucose in imago flies of parental generation. Hemolymph glucose concentration was lower by 34% (P=0.008) and 32% (P=0.033) in experimental females and males, respectively, as compared to control groups. Starvation during development led to lower level of body glucose in adult parental flies of both sexes. Adult males F1, generated by parents that were starved during development, showed 3-fold lower glycogen content, as compared to control. Conclusions. Starvation at early stage of development led to lower hemolymph glucose and body glucose level in imago flies. Moreover, parental starvation decreased glycogen pool in F1 males.
Fundamental problems and achievements of mineral fluidology in the works of Professor Volodymyr Antonovych Kalyuzhnyi (based on the materials of the Memorial Academy on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the birth)
Authors: Naumko Ihor , Pavlyuk Myroslav , Zynyuk Oleh , Galamay Anatoliy , Yakovenko Myroslavа , Matviishyn Zoryana
Published: June 2023

The fundamental problems and achievements of mineralofluidology in the works of the outstanding Ukrainian scientist-geologist, mineralogist-geochemist, laureate of the State Prize of Ukraine in the field of science and technology, laureate of the International Gold Medal named after the outstanding English researcher of fluid inclusions H. C. Sorby (the H. C. Sorby medal), recipient of the State Scholarship for Outstanding Scientists of Ukraine, Doctor of Sciences (Geology, Mineralogy), Professor Volodymyr Antonovych Kalyuzhnyi – one of the founders of the fundamental science on fluid inclusions, the creator of the world-famous scientific school of geochemistry and thermobarometry of mineral-forming fluids are discussed. The Memorial Academy on the occasion of celebrating a significant date – the 100th anniversary of the birth of Volodymyr Kalyuzhnyi was held on October 25, 2022, at the Institute of Geology and Geochemistry of Combustible Minerals (IGGCM) of the NAS of Ukraine within the framework of the Department of Earth Sciences of the NAS of Ukraine at the visiting meeting of the Earth Sciences Section of the Western Science Center (WSC) of the NAS of Ukraine and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine. Members of the Council and Executive Committee of the WSC, employees of the Institute and neighboring scientific institutions took part in its work. Head of the Institute, Аcademician of the NAS of Ukraine Myroslav Pavlyuk opened the Memorial Academy with an opening speech, greetings from the WSC of the NAS of Ukraine and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine were delivered by the deputy head of the WSC, director of the WSC, PhD (Technic), Аssociate Professor Oleh Zynyuk. Scientific reports were given by: Head of the Department of Geochemistry of Deep Fluids of the Institute, Corresponding Member of the NAS of Ukraine Ihor Naumko and Head of the Department of Geochemistry of Sedimentary Strata of Oil and Gas-bearing provinces, PhD (Geology), Senior Research Fellow Anatoliy Galamay. Scientific Secretary of the Institute, PhD (Geology), Senior Researcher Myroslava Yakovenko read the greetings that were sent or personally delivered to Members of the Organizing Committee and participants of the Memorial Academy. Warm memories of Volodymyr Kalyuzhny were shared by his son Yuriy, Myroslav Bratus, and Myroslav Pavlyuk. The apotheosis of a worthy commemoration and celebration of a significant date – the 100th anniversary of the birth of an outstanding Scientist, Teacher, Patriot, Citizen, and Man being were the prophetic words: “We remember, they will remember us too! Ukraine is and will be!”
Ukrainian Rallies in Paris: Functions and Folklore
Authors: Koval-Fuchylo Iryna
Published: June 2023

The results of included observation of the features of street meetings in Paris to support Ukraine are submitted in the article. The research has lasted about four months (November 2022 – February 2023). Pro-Ukrainian rallies have taken place twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. They have the form of a procession: people gather on one of the central squares of Paris and go to another square. On the way they chant anti-war slogans, where they ask to help Ukraine to win victory, and condemn Russian military aggression. Speakers have reports at every rally. The speeches are held in French and Ukrainian. The rallists use posters, banners actively. Short texts are written in French, rarely in English, Ukrainian on them. There are many Ukrainian, as well as French, sometimes Polish, Lithuanian, Georgian and other flags at the rallies. The main purpose of the rallies is to attract attention of Parisians and visitors of the city to the war in Ukraine, to support Ukraine’s struggle for de-occupation, and to make the Ukrainian community in Paris visible. The rally participants use military terminology (front, battalion, counter-propaganda), as well as special chevrons with the inscription Mitynhari (Rallists) for self-presentation of their activity, raising its status. Source material is attached to the study: folklore of the protest (verbal slogans and graphic inscriptions on posters). The deciphered texts of the interviews with the organizers and participants of the rallies are being prepared for publication.
Biochemical parameters of blood and tissue of the gastrocnemius muscle in chronically alcoholized rats under oral administration of C(60) fullerene aqueous solution
Authors:   Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, Lutsk, Ukraine, Motuziuk O. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine;, Nozdrenko D. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine;, Prylutska S. ,   National University of Life and Environmental Science of Ukraine, Kyiv, Bogutska K. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine;, Korotkyi O. ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine;, Prylutsky Yu. y ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine;
Published: June 2023

Biochemical indices of blood and tissue of the gastrocnemius muscle chronically alcoholized (for 3, 6 and 9 months) rats were studied. С60 fullerene aqueous solution (C60FAS) was administered orally as a pharmacological agent at a dose of 1 mg/kg daily throughout the experiment in a three routes: 1 h before alcohol intake (preventive regimen), together with alcohol (therapeutic regimen I) and 1 h after alcohol intake (therapeutic regimen II). Creatine phosphokinase (CPK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and the level of creatinine, lactate, hydrogen peroxide, reduced glutathione were estimated with clinical diagnostic kits. A pronounced upward trend in creatinine and lactate content, CPK and LDH activity with increasing degree of alcoholic myopathy during experiment was detected. Administration of C60FAS was shown to reduce the biochemical indices of muscle injury and to reduce oxidative processes by maintaining the balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant systems. The maximum positive effect was observed when C60FAS was administered together with alcohol (therapeutic regimen I). The results indicate on C60 fullerene ability to correct the pathological condition of the muscular system arising from alcohol intoxication. Keywords: alcohol intoxication, antioxidant system, C60 fullerene, creatine phosphokinase, gastrocnemius muscle, lactate dehydrogenase
The FATHER Model of Loss and Grief After Child’s Life-Limiting Illness
Authors: Postavaru Gianina-Ioana , Hamilton Jenny , Davies Sian , Swaby Helen , Michael Anastasia , Swaby Rabbi , Mukaetova-Ladinska Elizabeta B.
Published: June 2023

CONTEXT

Loss of a child to a life-limiting condition (LLC) is 1 of the most traumatic life events for parents. Research focusing on fathers’ experiences is in its infancy.

OBJECTIVES

Using a meta-ethnographic approach, we systematically reviewed the literature around fathers’ predeath and postdeath experiences of loss and grief.

DATA SOURCES

We searched Medline, Scopus, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Science Direct, and used the meta-ethnography reporting guidelines; the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses; and sampling strategy, type of study, approaches, range of years, limits, inclusion and exclusions, terms used, and electronic sources recommendations.

STUDY SELECTION

We used the Guide to Children’s Palliative Care and the directory of LLCs to select qualitative articles published up until the end of March 2023 that described fathers’ predeath and postdeath experiences of loss and grief after their child’s LLC. We excluded studies that failed to differentiate outcomes between mothers and fathers.

DATA EXTRACTION

Extracted data included study details, participants’ characteristics, response rate, source of participants, method and time of data collection, children’s characteristics, and quality assessment. First-order and second-order data were also extracted.

RESULTS

Forty studies informed a FATHER model of loss and grief. This highlights both similarities (ambivalence, trauma responses, fatigue, anxiety, unresolved grief, guilt) and distinct features defining the predeath and postdeath experiences of loss and grief.

LIMITATIONS

There was a bias toward greater mother participation in research. Specific categories of fathers remain underrepresented in palliative care literature.

CONCLUSIONS

Many fathers experience disenfranchised grief and deterioration in mental health after a child’s diagnosis and postdeath. Our model opens possibilities for personalized clinical support in the palliative care system for fathers.
Extracranial facial nerve imaging in parotid surgery candidates. Could 1.5 T MRI be beneficial?
Authors: Motamedi Omid , Mohebbi Saleh , Samimi Kaveh , Borjian Mohammad Amin
Published: June 2023

Background and aim

Despite improvements in the imaging modalities, the optimal protocol for extracranial facial nerve imaging using 1.5 T MRI is still debatable. Pre-operative mapping of the facial nerve could provide valuable information for surgeons. The current study aimed to evaluate and choose proper 1.5 T MRI protocols for the extracranial segment of facial nerve pre-op imaging.

Patients and methods

Extracranial facial nerves on the tumoral and normal side of 19 patients (38 nerves) were imaged by 1.5 T MRI, using five sequences including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, T1-weighted-fat-saturated with contrast, Three-dimensional (3D) T1-weighted and 3D T2-weighted. The visibility of each of the three segments of the extracranial facial nerve (the main trunk, cervicofacial and temporofacial divisions and terminal branches) in each sequence was assessed.

Results

On the normal side, segments 1 and 2 of the nerve were identifiable in all patients and segment 3 was identifiable in 89.5% of patients in both 3D T1-weighted and 3D T2-weighted sequences. On the tumoral side, segments 1, 2 and 3 were identifiable in 89.5, 84.2 and 68.4% of patients, respectively, in 3D T1-weighted and T2-weighted sequences. 3D sequences showed significant improvement in visualizing extracranial facial nerve and its branches compared to routine T1-weighted and T2-weighted sequences.

Conclusions

Our protocol showed favourable results in visualizing the extracranial facial nerve and its branches. We believe the protocol used in this study could be used as a pre-operative facial nerve mapping method using 1.5 T MRI.
Religious Education's Relevance in Nigeria's Tertiary Institutions
Authors: Ottuh Peter O. O. , Ihwighwu Jonathan O.
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to determine how important religious education is in Nigerian schools, especially in tertiary institutions in the Delta State of Nigeria. To reach this goal, eleven colleges and universities in Delta State were chosen for the research. Research questions and hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The data for the study was collected from primary sources using a structured questionnaire. Twenty-two questionnaires were administered to the selected institutions' twenty-two heads (and deputies). Means and Standard Deviations (M & SD) were used to answering the research questions, and the hypotheses were tested using the t-test statistical method. The findings of this study led to the conclusion that there are significant differences in tertiary institutions' heads' perceptions of the relevance of religious education in tertiary institutions in Delta State for the effective curbing of moral decadence in the state and the Nigerian society as a whole.
Investigation of the Siderophore Production and Associated Heavy Metal Accumulation Potential of Brevibacillus laterosporus 301/İK3-2
Authors: ÖZDEMİR Fatma İnci , AYDIN Bahadır , TÜLEK Ahmet
Published: June 2023

Siderophores are secondary metabolites released into the environment by various microorganisms, fungi, and plants to chelate iron from the surrounding environment. It is known that siderophores bind to other metals besides iron. Today, heavy metals, which are released as an undesirable result of industrial development, accumulate at high rates and pose a significant threat to biological living things. In this sense, remediation of heavy metal-contaminated sites is an urgent requirement. Siderophores are promising agents for the removal of heavy metals from natural habitats with the role of bioremediation.

In this study, the effect of heavy metals on the growth and siderophore production of Brevibacillus laterosporus was investigated. Maximum siderophore production was determined as 50 % at 48 h in the metal-free growth media. In addition, maximum siderophore production was determined for various heavy metals including 5 μM Hg2+, 0.5 mM Ni2+, 0.1 mM Co2+, and 2.5 μM Fe2+. Intracellular uptake of the mercury was also measured using optical emission spectroscopy and compared with siderophore production values of the B. laterosporus. The maximum biosorption of mercury was measured to be 40% in 5 μM Hg2+-containing media at 48 h of incubation. The results show that siderophore production is affected by uptake of various metals, and are usable for removing of heavy metals from environmental habitats.
Conceptual model of the process of formation of immobilization contractures
Authors: Tyazhelov Olexiy , Khasawneh Ayham Adli Mohammad , Karpinska Olena , Karpinsky Mykhaylo , Bitsadze Marianna
Published: June 2023

Contractures — limitation of passive movements in the joint — are a fairly frequent complication after immobilization or limitation of mobility and loading of the limb due to injuries, but the exact cause of their formation has not been clarified. Objective. Based on the meta-analysis of the results of experimental modeling and clinical studies of immobilization contractures, create a conceptual model of their formation. Methods. Literature sources from scientific bases were analyzed: Cochrane Library, Scopus, National Library of Medicine, ReLAB-HS Rehabilitation Resources Repository, Mendeley Reference Manager, The Physiological Society library, Google Scholar. Results. A conceptual model of the development of contractures was created. It is shown that immobilization of the joint of the injured limb blocks the execution of the signal of motor impulses. The lack of movement in the joint leads to a decrease in muscle strength and a slowdown in blood circulation. These processes are interrelated: hypotonia of the muscle is due to the restriction of nutrition through the blood supply, and the lack of contractile activity of the muscles leads to the rearrangement of the blood vessels. Articular cartilage is nourished through the subchondral bone and due to osmosis from the synovial fluid during movements. The lack of movement limits nutrition, protein synthesis is disrupted, the surface of the cartilage, synovial membrane and fluid begins to be rebuilt, the joint capsule, ligaments, and tendons thicken. At the same time, the structure of the muscles changes, they shorten and become denser. With long-term immobilization, degenerative processes in the tissues of the joint worsen its general condition, which can eventually lead to complete immobilization. Conclusions. The created conceptual model of the formation of immobilization contractures of joints takes into account the morphological changes of tissues as a result of immobilization. Immobilization affects all components of the joint and adjacent tissues from the first days, the changes progress over time. The use of the model will allow the development of a system of treatment measures to prevent the development of contractures.