bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Etude de faisabilité de la liquéfaction du gaz naturel via la réfrigération magnétique
Authors: Belkadi Mustapha , Smaili Arezki
Published: December 2023

Le présent travail porte sur l’étude de faisabilité d’appliquer la technique de réfrigération magnétique (RM) à la liquéfaction du gaz naturel (c’est-à-dire, liquéfacteur magnétique). Il s’agit de modéliser le phénomène de la réfrigération magnétique, de proposer un prototype de liquéfacteur magnétique et d’évaluer les performances du système. Un tel dispositif consiste essentiellement en un régénérateur magnétique, un fluide caloporteur et une source de champ magnétique. La première partie du travail portait sur la modélisation du phénomène de RM à travers l’étude d’un cycle thermomagnétique en considérant les équations d’énergie gouvernant les échanges de chaleur entre le fluide et le solide dans le régénérateur magnétique. La deuxième partie a été consacrée à l’analyse de performance et au dimensionnement du liquéfacteur magnétique. A cet effet, à l’aide du logiciel de simulation Hysys, de nombreuses configurations du liquéfacteur magnétique ont été proposées et étudiées, et ce, afin de déterminer les configurations optimales susceptibles de produire d’appréciables quantités de gaz naturel liquéfié (GNL). Des configurations hautement efficaces ont été trouvées; des performances ayant des valeurs jusqu’à 81% de celle du cycle de Carnot correspondant. Toutefois, en comparaison avec des liquéfacteurs conventionnels à gaz, les débits de GNL trouvés sont limités; des valeurs inférieures à 4.85 kg/jour obtenues sous des hautes pressions d’opération du gaz naturel (de l’ordre 36 bars) et pour un champ magnétique appliqué de 5 T.
Etude technico-économique d’un champ solaire de type stirling dish à tissemsilt
Authors: Zebbar Djallel , Kherris Sahraoui , Mohamed Chérif Naima , Ghabi Bendahmane
Published: December 2023

Le présent travail est consacré à l’étude technico-économique d’une éventuelle implantation de champ solaire de type Stirling-Dish (SD) pour la production d’électricité au niveau de la localité de Tissemsilt. Dans une première étape, l’analyse du potentiel solaire de la localité en question a été effectuée. Ceci a permis d’en déduire sur la base de données sur l’ensoleillement et de la valeur moyenne de la radiation solaire incidente sur la ville de Tissemsilt estimée à 1944 kWh/m2 sur une durée annuelle de 2999 h que l’ensoleillement au niveau de Tissemsilt est favorable pour l’implantation d’un champ SD. L’évaluation de la viabilité économique du champ, réalisée par la suite a permis d’en déduire que l’implantation d’un champ solaire SD au niveau de la localité de Tissemsilt est possible et est économiquement viable et rentable pour des prix de revient du kWh inférieurs au prix de vente unitaire pratiquée sur le marché mondial. Par ailleurs, l’étude a fait ressortir que pour un capital d’investissement allant de 1696 €/kWh, le remboursement du projet est réalisable au bout de 25 années d’exploitation et avec un prix de revient unitaire de 0.114 €/kWh, soit l’équivalent de 12 dinars algériens. Ceci dit que les champs solaires SD sont une alternative réelle et une opportunité à portée de main qu’il faut saisir.
Optimization of osmotic dehydration of tomatoes slices in salt and sucrose solutions using response surface methodology
Authors: Ferradji Ali , Aït Chaouche Feriel Sabrine , Belhachat Djamila , Malek Ali
Published: December 2023

Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to investigate the effect of temperature solution, immersion time, salt concentration and sucrose concentration on the water loss and solid gain during osmotic dehydration of tomatoes slices. The optimum conditions for maximum WL% and SG % are: T=55°C, t =240 min and C=74% for the sucrose and T=55°C, t= 240 min and C= 5% for the salt. The value of water content of the monomolecular layer (Xm),is 17.07 % at 25°C.
Preparation of activated carbon based on synthetic and agricultural wastes: application to the adsorption of methyl orange
Authors: Chennouf-Abdellatif Zefzaf , Cheknane Benamar , Zermane Faïza , Gaigneaux Eric M. , Hadj Sadok Ahmed , Mohammedi Ourida , Bouchenafa-Saib Naïma
Published: December 2023

This study focus on the optimization of operating conditions for activated carbons preparation starting from synthetic waste (tires) and agricultural waste (date pits) by chemical activation. The experimental design was used in order to determinate the optimal conditions for the preparation of a precursor with high properties. The results show that a temperature of 550°C and particle diameter of 800 um are interesting. The specific surface area reached 770 and 1030m2/g respectively for the active carbons obtained from tires and date pits. In order to evaluate the efficiency of these adsorbents, we selected an anionic dye (orange methyl) as a pollutant. Kinetic results show that the adsorption equilibrium is reached at around 60 min with an adsorbed amount of 21.42 mg/ g and 38.83 mg/g for the TAC (Tire Activated Carbon) and the DPAC (Date Pits Activated Carbon) respectively. The different isotherms were well fitting by Freundlich model.
Buckling behavior of wind turbine blade
Authors: Ounis Houdayfa , Balehouane Asma
Published: December 2023

The use of composite materials is growing up compared to the traditional materials, in basically all the industrial domains, where we need powerful, lightweight and cost effective structures. An example of a challenging lightweight structure made of composite materials are wind turbine blades. Indeed, the modern wind turbine blades are becoming dramatically bigger, and nowadays a length of a standard one is over 60 m. The wind turbine blades are often facing extremely complex loads due to environmental conditions they are working in. One of the main loading acting on the wind turbine bale are pressure load, which can engender flap wise and edgewise bending. On the other hand, the consequence of optimum design strategy, the wind turbine blades are becoming thin-walled structures, which raise the risk of buckling phenomena. Therefore, the understanding of the wind turbine blade behaviour under this kind of aforementioned load is very crucial. In this study, the buckling behaviour of the spar cap of a wind turbine blade using the finite element method is investigated. For so doing, a generic NACA 634- 421 airfoil section is considered. The spar cap is taken as a multilayer curved cylindrical shell. A parametric study is made in order to study the effect of material choice, stacking sequence and number of layers on the buckling resistance of the spar cap. The results showed that the buckling load is very sensitive to the considered parameters.
USE OF STEEL FIBER AND COPPER SLAG IN CONCRETE PAVEMENT
Authors:   SANKETIKA VIDYA PARISHAD ENGINEERING COLLEGE(Affiliated to Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam AP)P.M. PALEM,  VISAKHAPATNAM -530041, SAITEJA MALLA M.J , JAYAKUMARI K. M ,   SANKETIKA VIDYA PARISHAD ENGINEERING COLLEGE(Affiliated to Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam AP)P.M. PALEM,  VISAKHAPATNAM -530041
Published: December 2023

This study explores the utilization of steel fiber as a reinforcement material in concrete pavement construction. The investigation delves into the mechanical and structural properties of steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) and its impact on the performance of pavement structures. Various proportions of steel fibers are incorporated into the concrete mix, and the resulting mixtures are subjected to comprehensive testing, including compressive strength, flexural strength, and fatigue resistance. The study aims to assess the potential enhancement in the durability and load-bearing capacity of concrete pavements through the incorporation of steel fibers. The findings indicate that the addition of steel fibers contributes to increased tensile strength and crack resistance, addressing common issues such as reflective cracking and fatigue failure in concrete pavements. Moreover, the study investigates the economic viability and sustainability aspects associated with the use of steel fiber in concrete pavements, considering its influence on lifecycle costs and environmental impact. The outcomes provide valuable insights for engineers and practitioners seeking optimized solutions for durable and resilient concrete pavement construction. Keywords: Steel fibers, Concrete pavement, Reinforcement, Mechanical Properties, Durability,Structural Performance, Compressive strength, Flexural Strength,Fatigue resistance, Reflective Cracking,Sustainability.
STUDIES ON ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF SUBGRADE AND SUBBASE
Authors:   SANKETIKA VIDYA PARISHADENGINEERING COLLEGE (Affiliated to Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam AP) P.M. PALEM, VISAKHAPATNAM -530041, MAHALAKSHMI NAIDU PEELA , GOWRI M ,   SANKETIKA VIDYA PARISHADENGINEERING COLLEGE (Affiliated to Andhra University, Vishakhapatnam AP) P.M. PALEM, VISAKHAPATNAM -530041
Published: December 2023

This study looks into the viability of using alternative materials, such as Quarry Dust (QD), Saw Dust, Copper Slag (CS), and Fly Ash (FA), to improve the subgrade and subbase in road construction. The deterioration of conventional subgrade and subbase materials, which frequently result in road failures and costly maintenance, necessitates the investigation of sustainable and cost-effective alternatives. The study evaluates the engineering attributes and performance characteristics of various alternative materials using laboratory experiments, field evaluations, and numerical modelling. The results show that QD can greatly improve subgrade and subbase strength, whereas Saw Dust is a feasible eco- friendly solution for lightweight fill applications. Furthermore, the integration of CS shows promise in improving mechanical qualities and durability while lowering environmental effects.FA from thermal power plants has the ability to efficiently maintain subgrades and reduce excessive settlement. Keywords:Subgrade improvement, Sub base materials, Quarry Dust (QD), Saw Dust, Copper Slag (CS), Fly Ash (FA), Engineering properties, Sustainable construction, Alternative materials, Road infrastructure, Eco-friendly fill materials, Mechanical properties, Durability, Environmental impact, Settlement reduction.
METHOD DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF UV SPECTROSCOPY FOR THE ESTIMATION OF EPHEDRINE HYDROCHLORIDE IN BULK AND PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATION
Authors: Pravalika P. , Jephthah G. , Reddy A. Raja , Rao T. Rama
Published: December 2023

Development and validation of simple, rapid, accurate, precise and sensitive UV-Spectrophotometric method for the estimation of Ephedrine hydrochloride in bulk drug and Injection dosage form was performed in the current research. Quantitative determination of Ephedrine hydrochloride was done using distilled water as a solvent. λmax of Ephedrine hydrochloride in distilled water was measured at 270 nm. Linearity range for Ephedrine hydrochloride was 2-10 μg/mL and coefficient of correlation for Ephedrine hydrochloride was 0.999. Accuracy was performed and the percentage recovery of Ephedrine hydrochloride was found to be in the range of 98.6-99.17. The % relative standard deviation (RSD) for precision was less than 2%, LOD & LOQ was 0.079 μg/mL and 0.24 μg/mL respectively. The results suggest that method can be employed for routine analysis of Ephedrine hydrochloride in bulk drug and in pharmaceutical Dosage form.
A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON PRESCRIBING PATTERN IN LIVER TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS
Authors: Mungi Rama Krishna , Samhitha Mekala , Shirisha Mallethula , Nafey Md Abdul , K.N. Chandan Kumar
Published: December 2023

The liver transplant is a surgical procedure in which the diseased liver of recipient is replaced with the healthy liver of donor. Our research involved 70 patients who underwent liver transplant and it was single centered. This study’s objective was to evaluate the medications used in liver transplantation. In our study we found that most common cause for liver transplantation is cryptogenic and second most cause is alcoholic related.

Immunosuppressants and prophylaxis antimicrobials were primarily prescribed. In immunosuppressants, triple drug regimen was given for 74.28% and Quadruple regimen was prescribed for 18.5%. TDM immunosuppressants were performed during hospital stay. Meropenem is the major antibiotic used as prophylactic therapy, Valganciclovir is regularly prescribed antiviral whereas Fluconazole is usually prescribed antifungal. Immunosuppressants: 74.28% patients were prescribed with tacrolimus + mycophenolate mofetil + prednisolone (Triple therapy); Tacrolimus + Mycophenolate mofetil + prednisolone + Everolimus/Cyclosporine (18.5%). Antibiotics: 78.57% of patients were prescribed with Meropenem. Antiviral: 88.57% of patients were prescribed with Valganciclovir. Antifungal: 94.28% of patients were prescribed with Fluconazole. The length of hospital stay for many patients was 16-20 days.
IMPACT OF HEMODIALYSIS ON HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE OF THE PATIENT
Authors: Evangileen B. , Meenakshi Gundala , Kumar Jannu Umesh , Priyanka Vemula , Dhanalakshmi G.
Published: December 2023

Hemodialysis is a procedure used to clean the blood of people whose kidneys are not functioning properly. Duration of dialysis is 4-6 hours, twice or thrice a week. Hemodialysis cleans the kidneys of waste products including urea and creatinine along with free water extracorporeal, which slows the progression of kidney failure. The observational study included 80 patients who received hemodialysis.Our study was conducted on 80 patients out of which were found to be males (61.25%) and were found to be females (38.75%). The majority of the patients there (28.75%) were between the ages of 51 and 60. Among 80 patients, complications were reported in 64 (80%) patients. Commonly reported complications were weakness, muscle cramps and fever. Out of 80 patients, 16 patients (20.0%) were having long-term hypertension and 12 patients (15%) were having both hypertension and diabetes as co-morbidity. Participants in our study reported that the above-mentioned problems significantly lower the life quality in terms of the health.
ISOLATION OF POTENTIAL ENTOMOPATHOGENIC FUNGI FROM TEA SOIL OF DIBRUGARH AND TINSUKIA DISTRICT OF ASSAM
Authors: Ekka Preety , Ram Saikia Lakhi , Azariah Babu
Published: December 2023

Tea garden soil extensively supports monoculture plantation of tea plant and there is comparatively little informationabout the distribution of spores of entomopathogenic fungi within the studied site. The entomopathogenic fungi arepromising natural agents that can parasitize a wide range of insect species and most entomopathogenic fungi have severalvariants and each strain is adapted to various hosts, causing natural infections among insects of many different species.Hence, soil samples from selected tea gardens were qualitatively analysed to find the occurrences of entomogenous fungiin the tea plantation areas which can be used as a bio-control agent against tea pests.
School Heads’ Commitments in Practicing Six Characteristics of Clinical Supervision in Tanzania: Views of Male and Female Teachers
Authors: CHAULA Linus
Published: December 2023

This study aimed at examining teachers’ perceptions on school heads’ practices of six characteristics of clinical supervision through interviewing 28 and surveying 94 secondary school teachers in public secondary schools in Tanzania. In this mixed concurrent and cross-sectional case study design, school heads respecting teachers as professionals was a first dominant practice in clinical supervision and academic mentorships was a last dominant practice. Despite of dominance, school heads’ commitments in practicing six characteristics of clinical supervision was positively perceived by male and female teachers and no statistically significant difference (p<0.05) was observed among them. Due to school heads’ commitments in undertaking six characteristics of clinical supervision, teachers’ sense of teaching professional competence grew sufficiently. The study found a positive correlation and statistical significance (p<0.01) between school heads’ commitments in practicing six characteristics of clinical supervision and teachers’ sense of teaching professional competence development. The study concludes that through six characteristics of clinical supervisor, male and female teachers were equally supervised by school heads. It also concludes that six characteristics of clinical supervision are positive predictors for developing teachers’ sense of teaching professional competences.
Treatment of spontaneous hemopneumothorax in a 16-year-old child
Authors: Mustakimov Boris K. , Rostovcev N. M.
Published: December 2023

Introduction. Spontaneous hemopneumothorax is a life-threatening rare disease that requires emergency measures aimed at eliminating pneumothorax, stopping bleeding, as well as controlling vital functions of the body.
Purpose. To describe a rare clinical case with successful application of minimally invasive technologies.
Description of the clinical case. A case of successful treatment of spontaneous hemopneumothorax in a 16-year-old child is presented. The patient was admitted to the hospital with complaints of fainting, lethargy, weakness, chest pain. Multispiral computed tomography (MSCT) of the chest was immediately performed and revealed a total right-sided strained hydropneumothorax. The pleural cavity was drained; up to 2000 ml of blood was obtained. After that procedure, the child’s blood pressure dropped and was restored with the infusion of crystalloid solutions. Over the next 2 hours, another 200 ml of blood were discharged. Hemotransfusion of freshly frozen plasma and erythrocyte mass was performed. Upon further observation, the discharge stopped, there was no air flow. After patient’s condition was stabilized, thoracoscopy was made next day. In the pleural cavity , a large number of blood clots was revealed; the cavity was sanitized. Blebs up to 0.5 cm in diameter were found on the top of the right lung; no other organic pathology and any sources of ongoing bleeding were detected. A typical resection of the apical segments of the lung was made. The patient was discharged on day 7.
Conclusion. Successful treatment of a patient with spontaneous hemopneumothorax has been demonstrated. With this complication of spontaneous pneumothorax, early surgical treatment is indicated, with a stable condition, thoracoscopy is performed. The resulting recurrence of pneumothorax raises the question of performing a pleurectomy first.
Compositional, structural and stylistic paradigms in the suite for marimba and six double-basses Rural sketches by Igor Iachimciuc
Authors: Girbu Ecaterina
Published: December 2023

The article is dedicated to the analysis of a work signed by Igor Iachimciuc, composer and cymbal-player from Edinet, Republic of Moldova. Established for several years in the USA, the artist is distinguished by various stylistic and genre creations. One of these is the Rural Sketches Suite for marimba and six double-basses. The author reveals multiple compositional aspects of the musical language, pointing also to the folkloric and jazz filiations that constitute the elements of stylistic cohesion that give originality to the musical discourse. The work is analyzed for the first time in the musicology of the Republic of Moldova.
Hourglass for accordion, cello and piano by Vlad Burlea: compositional aspects and the treatment of the accordion
Authors: Mirzac Sergiu
Published: December 2023

Vlad Burlea is one of the most famous composers in the Republic of Moldova of the present day, who originally approaches various and interesting artistic themes. The Hourglass is a premiere in the national composition, being analyzed in this article for the first time. In this creation are gathered several innovative aspects, such as: the instrumental composition that includes the accordion alongside the cello and piano, the extensive application of several contemporary compositional, artistic and interpretation techniques, in the accordion part. Following an interview with the composer, the author of the article reveals aspects related to the compositional concept and the form of the creation, exposes data from the history of its appearance and carries out an interpretative analysis of the accordion part, from the point of view of implementing innovative performing techniques.
Premises of the appearance of the Romanian musical: pages of history
Authors: Postolache Inga
Published: December 2023

The musical is a genre of the musical theater of non-academic orientation, which syncretically combines literature, theater, music, dance, scenography, light design, thus creating a show for audiences of all ages. The purpose of the article is to analyze the premises of the appearance of the musical on the Romanian stage, as well as to reveal the first attempts to create the national musical.
Some teaching aspects of pop and jazz vocal duo
Authors: Munteanu Angelica
Published: December 2023

The article examines some aspects of the Pop and Jazz Vocal Duet teaching in a musical educational institution. The author deals with such issues as working on a poetic and musical text, creating a stage image. In addition, recommendations are given on the choice of the duet’s repertoire at different stages of training. The article presents examples from a number of compositions that are of interest from the point of view of studying by beginner singers.
Vitaly Sechkin: in memoriam
Authors: Hatipova Inna
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the article is to elucidate the contribution of Vitaly Sechkin, a renowned pianist, composer and pedagogue, to the development of the musical culture of Moldova of the late 1980s. A member of a musical dynasty that is well- known in Ukraine, V. Sechkin became one of the remarkable musical figures who combined the talents of a performer, composer and pedagogue. The author presents the major milestones of his life and artistic path, shows the role of his family, school and conservatory in the acquisition of his professional knowledge and skills. The author shows the significance of the piano and composition lessons given to V. Sechkin by the professors Nadezhda Landesman, Mikhail Tits and Yakov Zak, that gave him basic knowledge in these areas. Based on the analysis of factual material and the statements of his colleagues, prominent figures in the cultural life, the author concludes that Vitaly Sechkin played an important role in the development of the musical art of the Republic of Moldova.
Semiotic research perspectives of musical genres
Authors: Sedih Inessa
Published: December 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the musical genre in the semiology context, a domain of the contemporary science, which treats cultural objects as sign systems and communication phenomena. From the point of view of semiology, the genre, being an important carrier of the semantics of the musical piece reveals its most important semiotic functions.
The paradigms of artistic communication: particulars of constitution
Authors: Curchi Veronica , Comendant Tatiana
Published: December 2023

The research represents an analytical study on the paradigms of artistic communication, a field very little researched by the scientific community. The author, referring to the works and theories put forward by researchers, representatives of several socio-humanistic sciences, tries to identify and determine the particularities of constituting artistic communication paradigms. In the conceptualization process, the following paradigms were examined: functionalist, alternative, unilateral, interpretative that directly targets the cultural and communicational-artistic values of the society.
Management of the Contract Claim Presentation and Response in Ethiopia: The Case of Addis Ababa
Authors: Aschalew Biniyam
Published: December 2023

This research aimed to investigate the difficulties interrelated to contract claim management from the client, contractor, and consultant’s perspective by studying the claim process in public housing construction projects in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Both primary and secondary data were collected based on the survey strategy through 72 questionnaires and 250 organizational documents. The data were analyzed using Relative Importance Index, Spearman’s correlation Coefficient, framework analysis, and linear multiple regression model. The research findings showed that the most potential sources of claims were: delays in the supply of input materials; design change; weather conditions; undue delay in the release of payment; and failure to give written instruction. In addition, the contractors' main problems in the contract claim management process are high project managers’ workload, lack of contract knowledge, late notification of claims, poor communication, and unorganized project office administration. The variables of claim notification, identification, and presentation are positive and significantly affected the project claim management process, whereas claim examination and documentation haven’t significance to the project claim management process. The researcher recommended that the three major parties client, the Contractors, and the Consultants shall prevent disputes and minimize claims in the project by attaching through seeking legal advice early, setting up the Disputes Adjudication Board, and improving contract knowledge.
Integrating Environmental Education in the National Education Policy of India: A Path to Sustainable Citizenship
Authors: Ramesh S.
Published: December 2023

This article explores the significance of incorporating environmental education into the National Education Policy (NEP) of India. It delves into the principles of the NEP and emphasizes the role of environmental education in fostering holistic development, multidisciplinary approaches, and sustainable citizenship. The article examines the historical context, identifies bottlenecks in the current education system, and highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address environmental issues. By analyzing these aspects, the article advocates for the integration of environmental education to prepare students for responsible and informed citizenship in the face of global environmental challenges.
Greening Growth: A Study on the Environmental Impact of Narendra Modi Government's Initiatives - Make in India, Atma Nirbhar Bharat, and Beyond
Authors: Ramesh Dr. S.
Published: December 2023

This article presents a comprehensive study evaluating the environmental implications of key initiatives under the Narendra Modi government, with a particular focus on Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat. Through an in-depth analysis, the study explores the historical context, examines the implications for green commerce, identifies bottlenecks, and delineates the merits and potential side effects. The research aims to provide insights into the environmental sustainability of these policies and contribute to informed policy discussions.
Adviseren over ingrijpende wijzigingen
Authors: Nap M.
Published: December 2023

Adviseren over ingrijpende wijzigingen

Onder omstandigheden moet de Raad van State gevraagd worden om zich nogmaals over een wetsvoorstel of ontwerp voor een algemene maatregel van bestuur te buigen. In deze aflevering van ‘Legisprudentie’ wordt de advisering over deze plicht tot herhaald adviseren onder de loep genomen.
Event-related current density in primary insomnia
Authors: Szelenberger W , Niemcewicz S
Published: December 2023

Using Low Resolution Electromagnetic Tomography (LORETA), event-related current density was investigated in 14 patients with primary insomnia and 14 controls matched for age, gender and education level. All subjects were rated on the Athens Insomnia Scale, the Hyperarousal Scale, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Beck Depression Inventory. They also completed the Selective Reminding Test and the Continuous Attention Test. Only minor elevations on depression scales were found in patients. The Continuous Attention Test did not reveal any between group differences. However, insomniacs required more trials before all the Selective Reminding Test items were learned. Insomniacs showed less event-related current density in orbitofrontal, medial prefrontal and anterior cingulate cortex, i.e. brain regions of relevance for cognition and affect. Earliest group differences
appeared in the P1 time range and then were observed at the N1, N2 and P3 stages of stimulus processing. These stimulus processing differences correlated most consistently with severity of insomnia. Neuropsychological impairment correlated most strongly with less current density in Brodmann area 10.
Correlation between long latency evoked potentials from amygdala and evoked cardiac response to fear conditioned stimulus in rats
Authors: Kuniecki Michał , Coenen Anton M L , Kaiser Jan
Published: December 2023

We investigated relation between activity of central nucleus of amygdala (CE) and phasic heart rate deceleration during differential fear conditioning. We found that P2 component of long-lasting event potential (EP) to CS+ but not to CS- correlated strongly with HR deceleration in the 1st second after stimulus onset. The obtained results are discussed in the light of LeDoux's and Kapp's findings showing crucial role of amygdala in processing of emotionally relevant stimulation and it's involvement in initiating autonomic responses.
Bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Update
Authors: Bradley Ray
Published: December 2023

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is a zoonosis being the origin of variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and an important cattle disease in its own right. Countries have been slow to learn the importance of protecting, not only their cattle populations, but also their human populations. Since 2000, several additional European countries have reported BSE in native-born stock and this has led to a concern about the BSE status of countries that have imported cattle and cattle products from infected countries. Extensive feed and offal bans and application of newly-developed, 'Rapid' tests for prion protein in central nervous tissue of targeted, high-risk animals and slaughter cattle over 30 months old now provides the tools whereby the public are fully protected and BSE can be eradicated.
Dynamics of expression of the mRNA for cytokines and inducible nitric synthase in a murine model of the Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ciesielska Agnieszka , Joniec Ilona , Przybyłkowski Adam , Gromadzka Grażyna , Iwona  , Członkowska Anna , Członkowski Andrzej
Published: December 2023

The inflammatory reaction and oxidative stress has been linked with PD. Proinflammatory cytokines promote neurodegeneration or neuroprotection in different animal models. In addition, these cytokines have been reported to increase iNOS expression. With the RT-PCR method we evaluated mRNA levels for IL1β, IL6, TNF, IFNγ, IL-10 and iNOS in the striatum of C57BL/6 mice after MPTP intoxication. The IL1β mRNA expression rapidly increased and peaked at 6 h. The first increase of mRNA for TNFα and IFNγ was noticed at 6-24 h and the second at the 7th day after MPTP intoxication. Two peaks of IL10 mRNA were seen, immediately (6 h) and at the 3rd day post MPTP injection. The peak of mRNA level for IL6 was observed at the 7th day. Expression of mRNA for iNOS peaked at 24h, started decreasing on the 3rd day, but was still present till the 14th day. Those findings suggest that cytokine network and iNOS may be involved in the development of immune changes accompanying degeneration of the nigrostriatal system.
Fragment C tetanus toxin: A putative activity-dependent neuroanatomical tracer
Authors: Miana-Mena Francisco , Muñoz Maria , Ciriza Jesus , Soria Joaquin , Brûlet Philippe , Zaragoza Pilar , Osta Rosario
Published: December 2023

The non-toxic C fragment of tetanus toxin fused to the β-galactosidase enzyme was analysed as a neuroanatomical tracer. After intramuscular injection in rat tongue, its location in the hypoglossal network was compared with other classic tracers such as neurotropic viruses. The hybrid protein reached second and higher-order neurons after crossing several synapses. It appears to be a powerful tool to map neuronal circuits since the protein is easy to handle and detect and its transsynaptic transport is potential activity-dependent.
Frontal cortex, laterality, and memory: encoding versus retrieval
Authors: Kavcic Voyko , Zhong Jianhui , Yoshiura Takashi , Doty Robert
Published: December 2023

The cerebral hemispheres differ in their capabilities and response to verbal versus nonverbal visual material. A priori, it might thus be expected that the right hemisphere would be best activated during a mnemonic task with fMRI when using nonverbalizable images, and the left hemisphere with verbal material. However, previous psychological tests had shown a high degree of similarity in measures of memory for these disparate items. It was thus hypothesized that extensive commonality in the areas activated would prevail when this previously tested material was employed with fMRI. Six subjects underwent fMRI with four types of trials in blocks: fixating; passively viewing 12 words and 12 nonverbalizable images; endeavoring to remember (encoding) another set of 12 words and images; endeavoring to recognize (retrieve) previously viewed words or images. Passive viewing produced small islands of activation in left versus right frontal cortex for words and images, respectively. Endeavoring to remember enlarged the areas of activation and produced some bilaterality. Retrieval greatly augmented activation as well as bilaterality, and some 20% of the activated frontal volume was shared by words and images. Thus, on the one hand, the distribution of activation upon retrieval differed substantially for words versus images, but on the other, as predicted, there was considerable commonality. Predominant laterality of activation in some areas shifted between encoding and retrieval (HERA), importantly involving different regions for words versus images. Of course, processes other than memory per se are undoubtedly involved in these distributions of fMRI activation in frontal cortex, yet the nature of the to-be-remembered items is clearly a major factor, in accord with the asymmetric lateralization in their basic representation.
Effect of unilateral ibotenate lesions of the ventral tegmental area on cortical and hippocampal EEG in freely behaving rats
Authors: Jurkowlaniec Edyta , Tokarski Juliusz , Trojniar Weronika
Published: December 2023

It was found previously that unilateral destruction of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) facilitated behavioral responses (exploration, eating) induced by electrical stimulation of the contralateral VTA. The same effect occurred after unilateral injections of pharmacological agents, which led to a decrease in dopaminergic transmission in the VTA. While trying to explain the mechanism behind this "contralateral facilitation effect" in the present experiment we examined whether augmentation of function of the contralateral hemisphere would be reflected in cortical and hippocampal EEG changes in conscious rats. Unilateral, cytotoxic lesion of the VTA caused a bilateral decrease in neocortical and hippocampal EEG power during both exploratory sniffing and eating. Depression involved all the frequency bands in the prefrontal cortex, mainly in the hemisphere contralateral to the VTA lesion. In the hippocampus the depression was slightly more intense ipsilaterally, also involving all the frequency bands although to different degrees. The results indicate that the VTA is involved in the regulation of cortical and hippocampal activity during VTA-dependent behavioral activation, and that the "contralateral facilitation effect" is concomitant with lateralized changes in EEG activity.
The role of metabotropic glutamate receptors in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lee Hyoung-gon , Zhu Xiongwei , O'Neill Michael , Webber Kate , Casadesus Gemma , Marlatt Michael , Raina Arun , Perry George , Smith Mark
Published: December 2023

While glutamatergic transmission is severely altered by early degeneration of cortico-cortical connections and hippocampal projections in Alzheimer's disease (AD), the role of glutamate receptors in the pathogenesis of AD is not yet defined clearly. Nonetheless, as reviewed here, the topographical distribution of different types of receptors likely contributes to the regional selective nature of neuronal degeneration. In particular, metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR) may contribute the pathogenesis of many neurological conditions and also regulate neuronal vulnerability against cytotoxic stress. Thus, we here discuss the possible role of mGluR in the pathogenesis of AD based on the results from other neurodegenerative diseases that may give us clues to solve the mysterious selective neurodegeneration evident in AD.
Differential effects of nicotine on the activity of substantia nigra and ventral tegmental area dopaminergic neurons in vitro
Authors: Teo Min-Yau , Wyk Michiel , Lin John , Lipski Janusz
Published: December 2023

Despite resembling each other in many respects, dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) exhibit dissimilar responses to nicotine in vivo. To investigate this in an in vitro model, the acute effects of nicotine on the firing of SNc and VTA neurons were compared in transverse juvenile rat midbrain sections (300-350 µm) using extracellular recording. Levels of nicotine comparable with those encountered in smokers (0.2-1.0 µM, 3 min) not only increased firing rate, but also evoked prolonged irregular firing, as indicated by the increase in the coefficient of variation of discharge frequencies. Pre- and postsynaptic nicotinic cholinergic receptors (nAChRs) were involved, as both effects persisted, although at an attenuated level, in low Ca2+/high Mg2+. Only the nicotine-induced elevation of firing rate was sensitive to the glutamate receptor antagonists APV and CNQX, implying that enhanced glutamate release and glutamate receptor activation are involved in the effects of nicotine on discharge frequency but not pattern. Furthermore, nicotine (1.0 µM) exerted a greater increase in the firing frequency of VTA neurons relative to SNc neurons, suggesting that the differential effects on the two populations previously reported in vivo were due to a difference in the postsynaptic nAChR response and/or local synaptic circuits. Low concentrations of nicotine can thus profoundly modulate the activity of dopaminergic mesencephalic neurons through a local action within the ventral midbrain in vitro, and, similarly to in vivo conditions, evoke stronger effects in the VTA.
Evoked oscillations in unit recordings from the thalamo-cortical auditory system: an aspect of temporal processing or the reflection of hyperpolarized brain states?
Authors: Cotillon-Williams Nathalie , Edeline Jean-Marc
Published: December 2023

Since the beginning of the 90's several lines of research have brought new insights concerning the temporal aspects of sensory processing. Initial observations showing that sensory stimuli can trigger evoked, or induced, oscillations has generated a large number of studies where, explicitly or implicitly, the large-scale rhythmic activity of thalamo-cortical neurons was viewed as a key factor to synchronize neurons responding to different dimensions of a given stimulus, and therefore to solve the so-called "binding problem" (for reviews see Eckhorn 2000, Singer 1990, 1999). This line of research contrasts with the rate coding concept which has been used over the last 40 years to describe the functional properties of neurons in sensory systems and the plasticity of sensory systems both during development and in adulthood. We review here results obtained in the thalamo-cortical auditory system. After a characterization of the oscillatory events, we determined their origins by inactivating each component of the thalamo-cortical loop. Then we compared, within the same animals, the oscillations obtained in anesthetized and unanesthetized conditions. Our data strongly suggest that to clarify the functional roles of evoked oscillations, and more generally of any aspects of temporal coding, we need to study them on awake animals.
Superimposition of illusory patterns with contrast variations
Authors: Bulatov Aleksandr , Bertulis Algis
Published: December 2023

In psychophysical experiments, a perceived length matching task was performed. The stimuli were made of two spatially superimposed illusory figures that differed in structure and luminance contrast but had the same length and coincided precisely, with their ends matched. The contrast of one of the figures was fixed, and that of the other varied. In experiments with stimuli viewed monocularly, the combined patterns produced illusions of perceived length, the strength of which varied with alterations of contrast of one of the figures. If the figures were presented separately to different eyes of the same subject, changes of contrast did not have a noticeable influence on the illusion’s strength. When the two stimulus components were displaced spatially and shown side by side, the monoptic and dichoptic stimuli yielded different results as well. The illusion’s strength increased with an increase of the distance between the figures when viewed monocularly, but remained invariable if the figures were presented separately to each eye. The results obtained in experiments with dichoptic stimuli suggest that stimulus length distortions may occur in the monocular retinocortical pathways.
Does electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) affect cognitive components of auditory evoked P300?
Authors: Griskova Inga , Dapsys Kastytis , Andruskevicius Sergejus , Ruksenas Osvaldas
Published: December 2023

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), as a treatment tool for psychiatric disorders, is believed to be safe and effective. Nevertheless, it has a negative impact on cognitive functioning, especially on memory, causing both retrograde and anterograde amnesia. However, ECT effects on more subtle stages of information processing are not studied enough. Event-related potentials, and especially P300, are thought to reflect physiology of cognition. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of ECT treatment on parameters of endogenous components (N2, P3) of the P300 potential. Seventeen patients suffering from schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and recurrent depressive disorder participated at the study. After the course of ECT, significant increase of N2 amplitude in parietal midline region and prolongation of P3 latency in frontal midline region, of which the magnitude positively correlated with the number of ECT procedures, have been obtained.
Plasma levels of Aβ peptides are altered in amnestic mild cognitive impairment but not in sporadic Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sobów Tomasz , Flirski Marcin , Kłoszewska Iwona , Liberski Paweł P.
Published: December 2023

Plasma Aβ levels have been examined in sporadic Alzheimer’s disease yielding conflicting results; both no difference and an increase in plasma concentrations of Aβ42 and Aβ40 in sporadic cases of AD as compared to controls have been reported. Elevated plasma Aβ42 levels may be detected several years before the onset of symptoms (in mild cognitive impairment stadium). Levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42 were measured in plasma from 54 patients with AD, 39 subjects with MCI and 35 controls using a commercially available ELISA. Mean plasma Aβ42 levels were significantly higher in MCI as compared to both AD (P
Visualisation of the extent of damage in a rat spinal cord injury model using MR Microscopy of the water diffusion tensor
Authors: Krzyżak Artur , Jasiński Andrzej , Węglarz Władysław , Adamek Dariusz , Sagnowski Piotr , Baj Monika
Published: December 2023

Magnetic Resonance Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) of the control and traumatic injured spinal cord of a rat in vitro is reported. Experiments were performed on excised spinal cords from 10 Wistar rats, using a home-built 6.4 T MR microscope. MRI and histopathological results were compared. Presented results show that DTI of the spinal cord, perfused with formalin 10 minutes after the injury, can detect changes in water diffusion in white matter (WM) and in gray matter (GM), in areas extending well beyond the region of direct impact. Histology of neurons of the GM shows changes that can be attributed to ischemia. This is in agreement with the observed decrease of diffusion in the injured regions, which may be attributed to the cytotoxic edema due to ischemia. However, the diffusion changes in highly anisotropic WM seem to be caused by a direct action of mechanical force of impact, which significantly distorts the nerve fibers.
Jerzy Konorski on brain associations [With comments by R. Thompson, E.R. John, M. Mishkin, W.J. Wilson, J. Brennan, and P.J. Jastreboff]
Authors: Zielinski Kazimierz
Published: December 2023

Jerzy Konorski (1903-1973) exerted a vital influence on the development of physiological psychology and neurobiology. Konorski and his friend and collaborator, Stefan Miller, distinguished instrumental conditioned reflexes as a separate type of acquired behavior, different from classical (Pavlovian) conditioned reflexes. In a series of pioneering studies Konorski demonstrated basic differences between the two types of conditioned reflexes. After the Second World War, he reinterpreted the results of research on conditioned reflexes on the basis of the mechanisms of Sherringtonian neurophysiology and introduced the term plasticity of the nervous system. His work, "Conditioned reflexes and neuron organization", published in 1948, signaled Konorski's place as one of the founders of contemporary neuroscience. He contributed significantly to the understanding of complex interactions of various classes of behaviors: innate and acquired, those driven by opposite motivations, and those elicited by cues signaling different contingencies. In his book "Integrative activity of the brain" (1967), Konorski analyzed the brain as a complex system directing the functioning of the organism as a whole.
Gliomas: association of histology and molecular genetic analysis of chromosomes 1p, 10q, and 19q
Authors: Gresner Sylwia , Rieske Piotr , Wozniak Krystyna , Piaskowski Sylwester , Jaskolski Dariusz , Skowronski Wieslaw , Sikorska Beata , Papierz Wielislaw , Liberski And
Published: December 2023

The aim of our study was to evaluate the frequencies of loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on chromosomes 1p, 10q, and 19q in gliomas and to correlate them with the histological diagnosis and with patient age and gender. We found deletions within chromosome 1p to be significantly associated with the histological subtype of glial tumor (P
Da omissão aos povos originários: uma análise do estado de direito na república brasileira
Authors: Da Silveira Carolini Guedes Barros , Simão Maria Olívia de Albuquerque Ribeiro
Published: December 2023

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi identificar, no corpo do texto legal, as diferentes nomenclaturas atribuídas aos povos indígenas e demais populações tradicionais, ao longo de mais de 130 anos, demonstrando a visão dispensada a esses grupos humanos do Estado de Direito, nos diferentes contextos históricos durante a República brasileira. A metodologia utilizada nesta pesquisa foi a do método dedutivo; quanto aos meios, a pesquisa foi bibliográfica e documental, com o uso da doutrina correspondente a temática e da norma jurídica republicana, iniciada com a Proclamação da República do Brasil, em 15 de novembro de 1889, até o mês de setembro de 2023; quanto aos fins a pesquisa foi qualitativa. Conclui-se que apesar da mudança do ordenamento jurídico brasileiro muitas normas anteriores a Constituição Federal de 1988, ainda em vigor, adotam a visão integracionista muito enraizada na cultura, bem como designações equivocadas dos povos indígenas, que precisam ser atualizadas. Em comparação ao povo indígena, população tradicional é um conceito recentemente trabalhado pela norma jurídica, ambos os casos expressando definições muito simplificadas do universo que envolve cada termo.