bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial DNA Variations in Colombian Creole Sheep Confirm an Iberian Origin and Shed Light on the Dynamics of Introduction Events of African Genotypes
Authors: Revelo Herman Alberto , López-Alvarez Diana , Landi Vincenzo , Rizzo Lauden , Alvarez Luz Angela
Published: September 2020

The genetic origins and diversity of Creole sheep from five regions of Colombia were investigated based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variations across 89 sequences from five breeds: one wool Creole sheep (CL) and four hair Creole sheep, including Ethiopian (OPCE), Sudan (OPCS), Pelibuey (OPCP) and Wayúu (OPCW). A global comparison was done using 62 haplotypes from Iberian, African, Indian, Caribbean, Mexican, Caucasian and European sheep based on sequences retrieved from GenBank. This study aimed to identify the maternal origin of Colombian Creole sheep and their genetic relationships at a global level. The results showed 31 different haplotypes from Colombian Creole sheep, which can be assigned to maternal lineage B, the most common lineage found in European sheep breeds and the only one found in several Iberian breed (e.g., Churra, Spanish Merino) that most likely participated in the Creole formation. Additional analyses showed that wool and hair sheep retained a broad genetic identity despite being geographically separated. The global-level phylogenetic analysis revealed that Colombian Creole sheep belong to a distinct and defined genetic lineage that is likely the result of a founder effect with ecotypes of Iberian descent and the subsequent introduction of foreign breeds. This is consistent with historical reports on the presence of sheep in South America and, particularly, Colombia.
Microbes in Our Food, an Ongoing Problem with New Solutions
Authors: Prüβ Birgit M.
Published: September 2020

Despite an increasing number of techniques that are designed to mitigate microbial contamination of food and the resulting food borne disease outbreaks, the United States and many other countries across the world continue to experience impressive numbers of such outbreaks. Microbial contamination can occur during activities that take place in the pre-harvest environment or in the processing facility post-harvest. Current treatments of food that are aimed at reducing bacterial numbers may be only partially effective because of the development of bacterial resistance, the formation of bacterial biofilms, and inactivation of the treatment compound by the food products themselves. This Special Issue will include basic research approaches that are aimed at enhancing our understanding of how contamination occurs throughout the food processing chain, as well as more immediate and applied approaches to the development and use of novel anti-microbials to combat microbes in food. Novel techniques that aim to evaluate the efficacy of novel anti-microbials are included. Overall, we present a broad spectrum of novel approaches to reduce microbial contamination on food at all stages of production.
Virulence Characteristics and Antibiotic Resistance Profiles of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates from Diverse Sources
Authors: Rubab Momna , Oh Deog-Hwan
Published: September 2020

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) is an enteric pathogen that causes several gastrointestinal ailments in humans across the world. STEC’s ability to cause ailment is attributed to the presence of a broad range of known and putative virulence factors (VFs) including those that encode Shiga toxins. A total of 51 E. coli strains belonging to serogroups O26, O45, O103, O104, O113, O121, O145, and O157 were tested for the presence of nine VFs via PCR and for their susceptibility to 17 frequently used antibiotics using the disc diffusion method. The isolates belonged to eight different serotypes, including eight O serogroups and 12 H types. The frequency of the presence of key VFs were stx1 (76.47%), stx2 (86.27%), eae (100%), ehxA (98.03%), nleA (100%), ureC (94.11%), iha (96.07%), subA (9.80%), and saa (94.11%) in the E. coli strains. All E. coli strains carried seven or more distinct VFs and, among these, four isolates harbored all tested VFs. In addition, all E. coli strains had a high degree of antibiotic resistance and were multidrug resistant (MDR). These results show a high incidence frequency of VFs and heterogeneity of VFs and MDR profiles of E. coli strains. Moreover, half of the E. coli isolates (74.5%) were resistant to > 9 classes of antibiotics (more than 50% of the tested antibiotics). Thus, our findings highlight the importance of appropriate epidemiological and microbiological surveillance and control measures to prevent STEC disease in humans worldwide.
Osmotic Dehydration for the Production of Novel Pumpkin Cut Products of Enhanced Nutritional Value and Sustainability
Authors: Dermesonlouoglou Efimia , Paraskevopoulou Eleni , Andreou Varvara , Taoukis Petros
Published: September 2020

The quality and preservability of fresh-cut fruits can be improved by osmotic dehydration (OD). In this study, the impact of Strained Yoghurt Whey (SY Whey) (along with other osmotic solutes) on mass transfer kinetics (water loss, solid gain, water activity decrease), quality attributes (color, texture, sensory characteristics, vitamin C), and microbial stability during OD and subsequent refrigerated storage (5–15 °C) of OD-processed pumpkin cuts was studied. The effect of temperature (35–55 °C), time (10–240 min), and type of osmotic solvent was evaluated to select the optimal processing conditions (55 °C–120 min; WL: 9-99-10.86 g w./g i.d.m. SG: 1.47–1.79 g s./g i.d.m., aw: 0.89). The use of SY Whey vs. water as solvent enhanced the mass transfer phenomena increasing the solids uptake diffusion coefficient by 20%. Water and whey osmosed samples were of similar quality (32–38% increase of hardness, total sensory quality score: 7.9–8.2/9.0, vitamin C content: 77–81 mg/100 g). At all studied storage temperatures, ODSY Whey samples presented lower quality degradation rates compared to the respective ODWater samples (e.g., almost half for hardness change). The shelf life of both OD processed pumpkin cuts exceeded 90 days at 5–15 °C (no microbial growth) supporting the applicability of SY whey as novel osmotic solvent.
Reduced Interhemispheric Coherence after Cerebellar Vermis Output Perturbation
Authors: Georgescu Margarint Elena Laura , Georgescu Ioana Antoaneta , Zahiu Carmen-Denise-Mihaela , Șteopoaie Alexandru Răzvan , Tirlea Stefan-Alexandru , Popa Daniela , Zagrean Ana-Maria , Zagrean Leon
Published: September 2020

Motor coordination and motor learning are well-known roles of the cerebellum. Recent evidence also supports the contribution of the cerebellum to the oscillatory activity of brain networks involved in a wide range of disorders. Kainate, a potent analog of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, can be used to induce dystonia, a neurological movement disorder syndrome consisting of sustained or repetitive involuntary muscle contractions, when applied on the surface of the cerebellum. This research aims to study the interhemispheric cortical communication between the primary motor cortices after repeated kainate application on cerebellar vermis for five consecutive days, in mice. We recorded left and right primary motor cortices electrocorticograms and neck muscle electromyograms, and quantified the motor behavior abnormalities. The results indicated a reduced coherence between left and right motor cortices in low-frequency bands. In addition, we observed a phenomenon of long-lasting adaptation with a modification of the baseline interhemispheric coherence. Our research provides evidence that the cerebellum can control the flow of information along the cerebello-thalamo-cortical neural pathways and can influence interhemispheric communication. This phenomenon could function as a compensatory mechanism for impaired regional networks.
Widespread Reductions of Spontaneous Neurophysiological Activity in Leber’s Disease—An Application of EEG Source Current Density Reconstruction
Authors: Jonak Kamil
Published: September 2020

Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a rare, maternally inherited genetic disease caused by a mutation of mitochondrial DNA. Classical descriptions have highlighted structural abnormalities in various parts of patients’ optic tracts; however, current studies have proved that changes also affect many cortical and subcortical structures, not only these belonging to the visual system. This study aimed at improving our understanding of neurophysiological impairments in LHON. First of all, we wanted to know if there were any differences between the health control and LHON subjects in the whole-brain source electroencephalography (EEG) analysis. Second, we wanted to investigate the associations between the observed results and some selected aspects of Leber’s disease’s clinical picture. To meet these goals, 20 LHON patients and 20 age-matched healthy control (HC) subjects were examined. To investigate the electrophysiological differences between the HC and LHON groups, a quantitative analysis of the whole-brain current source density was performed. The signal analysis method was based on scalp EEG data and an inverse solution method called low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (eLORETA). In comparison with the healthy subjects, LHON participants showed significantly decreased neuronal activity in the alpha and gamma bands; more specifically, in the alpha band, the decrease was mainly found in the occipital lobes and secondary visual cortex, whereas, in the gamma band, the reduced activity occurred in multiple cortical areas. Additionally, a correlation was found between the alpha band activity of the right secondary visual cortex and the averaged thickness of the right retinal nerve fiber layer in the LHON participants. Our study suggests that LHON is associated with widespread cortical de-activation, rather than simply abnormalities of structures constituting the visual system.
Rebuilding Tendons: A Concise Review on the Potential of Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Chu Jin , Lu Ming , Pfeifer Christian G. , Alt Volker , Docheva Denitsa
Published: September 2020

Tendons are vital to joint movement by connecting muscles to bones. Along with an increasing incidence of tendon injuries, tendon disorders can burden the quality of life of patients or the career of athletes. Current treatments involve surgical reconstruction and conservative therapy. Especially in the elderly population, tendon recovery requires lengthy periods and it may result in unsatisfactory outcome. Cell-mediated tendon engineering is a rapidly progressing experimental and pre-clinical field, which holds great potential for an alternative approach to established medical treatments. The selection of an appropriate cell source is critical and remains under investigation. Dermal fibroblasts exhibit multiple similarities to tendon cells, suggesting they may be a promising cell source for tendon engineering. Hence, the purpose of this review article was in brief, to compare tendon to dermis tissues, and summarize in vitro studies on tenogenic differentiation of dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, analysis of an open source Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) data repository was carried out, revealing great overlap in the molecular profiles of both cell types. Lastly, a summary of in vivo studies employing dermal fibroblasts in tendon repair as well as pilot clinical studies in this area is included. Altogether, dermal fibroblasts hold therapeutic potential and are attractive cells for rebuilding injured tendons.
A Role for Caenorhabditis elegans COMPASS in Germline Chromatin Organization
Authors: Herbette Marion , Robert Valérie , Bailly Aymeric , Gely Loïc , Feil Robert , Llères David , Palladino Francesca
Published: September 2020

Deposition of histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4) methylation at promoters is catalyzed by the SET1/COMPASS complex and is associated with context-dependent effects on gene expression and local changes in chromatin organization. The role of SET1/COMPASS in shaping chromosome architecture has not been investigated. Here we used Caenorhabditis elegans to address this question through a live imaging approach and genetic analysis. Using quantitative FRET (Förster resonance energy transfer)-based fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) on germ cells expressing histones eGFP-H2B and mCherry-H2B, we find that SET1/COMPASS influences meiotic chromosome organization, with marked effects on the close proximity between nucleosomes. We further show that inactivation of set-2, encoding the C. elegans SET1 homologue, or CFP-1, encoding the chromatin targeting subunit of COMPASS, enhances germline chromosome organization defects and sterility of condensin-II depleted animals. set-2 loss also aggravates germline defects resulting from conditional inactivation of topoisomerase II, another structural component of chromosomes. Expression profiling of set-2 mutant germlines revealed only minor transcriptional changes, suggesting that the observed effects are at least partly independent of transcription. Altogether, our results are consistent with a role for SET1/COMPASS in shaping meiotic chromosomes in C. elegans, together with the non-histone proteins condensin-II and topoisomerase. Given the high degree of conservation, our findings expand the range of functions attributed to COMPASS and suggest a broader role in genome organization in different species.
Cytokines Explored in Saliva and Tears from Radiated Cancer Patients Correlate with Clinical Manifestations, Influencing Important Immunoregulatory Cellular Pathways
Authors: Aqrawi Lara A. , Chen Xiangjun , Hynne Håvard , Amdal Cecilie , Reppe Sjur , Aass Hans Christian D. , Rykke Morten , Hove Lene Hystad , Young Alix , Herlofson Bente Brokstad , Westgaard Kristine Løken , Utheim Tor Paaske , Galtung Hilde Kanli , Jensen Janicke Liaaen
Published: September 2020

Although radiotherapy is a common form of treatment for head and neck cancer, it may lead to tissue damage in the salivary and lacrimal glands, possibly affecting cytokine expression in the gland fluid of treated individuals. Cytokine profiles in saliva and tear fluid of 29 radiated head and neck cancer patients and 20 controls were screened using a multiplex assay. Correlations between cytokine expression and clinical oral and ocular manifestations were examined, and cellular pathways influenced by these cytokines were assessed using the Functional Enrichment Analysis Tool. Significantly elevated cytokines identified in patient saliva were CCL21, IL-4, CX3CL1, CCL2, CXCL1 and CCL15. Many of these cytokines correlated positively with objective signs of oral dryness, and reduced saliva production in the patients. Although CCL21 and IL-4 levels were significantly lower in patient tear fluid, they correlated with subjective ocular symptoms. These increased salivary cytokines affected pro-inflammatory and apoptotic cellular pathways, including T cell signalling, several interleukin signalling pathways, TNF and TGF-β receptor signalling, and the apoptotic p53 pathway. In conclusion, the upregulated salivary cytokines identified suggest an interplay between innate and adaptive immunity, affecting immunoregulatory cellular pathways. Whether this is due to late effects of radiotherapy or tissue repair remains to be investigated.
Signalling, Metabolic Pathways and Iron Homeostasis in Endothelial Cells in Health, Atherosclerosis and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bosseboeuf Emy , Raimondi Claudio
Published: September 2020

Endothelial cells drive the formation of new blood vessels in physiological and pathological contexts such as embryonic development, wound healing, cancer and ocular diseases. Once formed, all vessels of the vasculature system present an endothelial monolayer (the endothelium), lining the luminal wall of the vessels, that regulates gas and nutrient exchange between the circulating blood and tissues, contributing to maintaining tissue and vascular homeostasis. To perform their functions, endothelial cells integrate signalling pathways promoted by growth factors, cytokines, extracellular matrix components and signals from mechanosensory complexes sensing the blood flow. New evidence shows that endothelial cells rely on specific metabolic pathways for distinct cellular functions and that the integration of signalling and metabolic pathways regulates endothelial-dependent processes such as angiogenesis and vascular homeostasis. In this review, we provide an overview of endothelial functions and the recent advances in understanding the role of endothelial signalling and metabolism in physiological processes such as angiogenesis and vascular homeostasis and vascular diseases. Also, we focus on the signalling pathways promoted by the transmembrane protein Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) in endothelial cells, its recently discovered role in regulating mitochondrial function and iron homeostasis and the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and iron in atherosclerosis and neurodegenerative diseases.
Spin State Behavior of A Spin-Crossover Iron(II) Complex with N,N′-Disubstituted 2,6-bis(pyrazol-3-yl)pyridine: A Combined Study by X-ray Diffraction and NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Melnikova Elizaveta , Aleshin Dmitry , Nikovskiy Igor , Denisov Gleb , Nelyubina Yulia
Published: September 2020

A series of three different solvatomorphs of a new iron(II) complex with N,N′-disubstituted 2,6-bis(pyrazol-3-yl)pyridine, including those with the same lattice solvent, has been identified by X-ray diffraction under the same crystallization conditions with the metal ion trapped in the different spin states. A thermally induced switching between them, however, occurs in a solution, as unambiguously confirmed by the Evans technique and an analysis of paramagnetic chemical shifts, both based on variable-temperature NMR spectroscopy. The observed stabilization of the high-spin state by an electron-donating substituent contributes to the controversial results for the iron(II) complexes of 2,6-bis(pyrazol-3-yl)pyridines, preventing ‘molecular’ design of their spin-crossover activity; the synthesized complex being only the fourth of the spin-crossover (SCO)-active kind with an N,N′-disubstituted ligand.
Estimated View of Renewable Resources as a Sustainable Electrical Energy Source, Case Study
Authors: Al-Najjar Heyam , Pfeifer Christoph , Al Afif Rafat , J. El-Khozondar Hala
Published: September 2020

Renewable energy resources for energy generation in the Gaza Strip (GS) emerge as a complementary resource, not only to meet the need of society for energy in various forms, but also to find available, sustainably, and less costly resources for institutions as with individuals. These resources could provide safety in use, increase energy security, and address environmental concerns. This work aimed to assess the renewable energy potential in the GS, which has few natural resources and a real crisis in energy supply. Therefore, an integrated evaluation methodology is assumed for renewable energy potential; the methodology comprises mathematical as well as software programming to assess the renewable energy. The results reveal the assessment of the existing four renewable energy sources: solar, wind, wave, and biomass. The estimations exhibit that the solar and biomass resources are dominant. The methodology consists of mathematical models for calculating the energy outputs from different resources in the study area. ArcGIS 10.1 software used for calculating solar radiation, WindSim 9.0.0 software for estimating wind energy and OpenWEC software tool for evaluating the force stored in coastal waves. The potential of each energy and the integration of all are depicted in individual maps by ArcGIS. It was found that if anaerobic digestion technology is applied, 65.15 MW electric power could be produced from about one-and a third million tons/year of biomass. Depending on the available statistical data due to the specified annual time period and the household electric demand that is about 120 MW at the corresponding time, this means that the energy from biomass can cover more than half of the demand. In addition, solar energy potentials were estimated to reach 1195 GWh/year. Therefore, the existing power may be replaced by biomass and solar energy. It also demonstrates that the energy potential maps can be used as metrics for possible sustainability projects in the GS.
Modeling, Simulation, and Reconstruction of 2-Reservoir Heat-to-Power Processes in Finite-Time Thermodynamics
Authors: Muschik Wolfgang , Hoffmann Karl Heinz
Published: September 2020

The connection between endoreversible models of Finite-Time Thermodynamics and the corresponding real running irreversible processes is investigated by introducing two concepts which complement each other: Simulation and Reconstruction. In that context, the importance of particular machine diagrams for Simulation and (reconstruction) parameter diagrams for Reconstruction is emphasized. Additionally, the treatment of internal irreversibilities through the use of contact quantities like the contact temperature is introduced into the Finite-Time Thermodynamics description of thermal processes.
Population Genetic Structure and Demography of the Critically Endangered Chequered Blue Butterfly (Scolitantides orion) in a Highly Isolated Part of Its Distribution Range
Authors: Czajkowska Magdalena , Dawidowicz Łukasz , Borkowska Anetta , Dziekańska Izabela , Sielezniew Marcin
Published: September 2020

Scolitantides orion is a butterfly species threatened in many European countries. In Poland, it survived in a single highly isolated area (Vistula River valley), which is an example of the dramatic decline in the population number. We studied the two largest remaining populations inhabiting opposite banks of the river. Mark-release-recapture studies showed that both populations were small, and they fluctuated in numbers, but adult individuals were twice as numerous on the western site. Genetic analyses were carried out using a mitochondrial (COI, ND5) and nuclear markers (Wgl, EF-1α, and microsatellite loci). We found out that genetic variation was low at both sites but higher in the smaller eastern population. This pattern is likely to be better explained by past distribution, when the butterfly, as a continental species used to be much more widespread in the east. However, the genetic differentiation between populations was low. This could suggest that the existing gene flow is facilitated by dominant regional wind direction, which may also contribute to a better genetic condition of the western population. Finally, a comparison of the obtained COI sequences with others available enabled us to reveal the phylogeographic pattern of the S. orion from different localities within its range.
Characterization of Two Complete Mitochondrial Genomes of Ledrinae (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) and Phylogenetic Analysis
Authors: Huang Weijian , Zhang Yalin
Published: September 2020

Mitochondrial genomes are widely used for investigations into phylogeny, phylogeography, and population genetics. More than 70 mitogenomes have been sequenced for the diverse hemipteran superfamily Membracoidea, but only one partial and two complete mtgenomes mitochondrial genomes have been sequenced for the included subfamily Ledrinae. Here, the complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of two additional Ledrinae species are newly sequenced and comparatively analyzed. Results show both mitogenomes are circular, double-stranded molecules, with lengths of 14,927 bp (Tituria sagittata) and 14,918 bp (Petalocephala chlorophana). The gene order of these two newly sequenced Ledrinae is highly conserved and typical of members of Membracoidea. Similar tandem repeats in the control region were discovered in Ledrinae. Among 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) of reported Ledrinae mitogenomes, analyses of the sliding window, nucleotide diversity, and nonsynonymous substitution (Ka)/synonymous substitution (Ks) indicate atp8 is a comparatively fast-evolving gene, while cox1 is the slowest. Phylogenetic relationships were also reconstructed for the superfamily Membracoidea based on expanded sampling and gene data from GenBank. This study shows that all subfamilies (sensu lato) are recovered as monophyletic. In agreement with previous studies, these results indicate that leafhoppers (Cicadellidae) are paraphyletic with respect to the two recognized families of treehoppers (Aetalionidae and Membracidae). Relationships within Ledrinae were recovered as (Ledra + (Petalocephala + Tituria)).
First-Order Comprehensive Adjoint Method for Computing Operator-Valued Response Sensitivities to Imprecisely Known Parameters, Internal Interfaces and Boundaries of Coupled Nonlinear Systems: I. Mathematical Framework
Authors: Cacuci Dan
Published: September 2020

This work presents the first-order comprehensive adjoint sensitivity analysis methodology (1st-CASAM) for computing efficiently the first-order sensitivities (i.e., functional derivatives) of operator-valued responses (i.e., model results) of general models of coupled nonlinear physical systems characterized by imprecisely known or and/or uncertain parameters, external boundaries, and internal interfaces between the coupled systems. The explicit mathematical formalism developed within the 1st-CASAM for computing the first-order sensitivities of operator-valued response to uncertain internal interfaces and external boundaries in the models’ phase–space enables this methodology to generalize all of the previously published methodologies for computing first-order response sensitivities. The computational resources needed for using forward versus adjoint operators in conjunction with spectral versus collocation methods for computing the response sensitivities are analyzed in detail. By enabling the exact computations of operator-valued response sensitivities to internal interfaces and external boundary parameters and conditions, the 1st-CASAM presented in this work makes it possible, inter alia, to quantify the effects of manufacturing tolerances on operator-valued responses of physical and engineering systems.
In Situ Synchrotron X-ray Study of the Mechanical Properties of Pure Mg Produced by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Li Li , Wang Leyun , Wang Jie , Zhang Huan , Zhu Qingchun , Li Zhiqiang , Zeng Xiaoqin
Published: September 2020

In this study, in situ synchrotron X-ray experiments with wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) detectors were performed on two pure magnesium materials produced by powder metallurgy. According to SAXS analysis, each of the two materials has a porosity of less than 0.5%. Line broadening analysis was performed on diffraction patterns collected by WAXS to analyze the dislocation evolution during material deformation. In both materials, -type dislocation activities dominate the tensile deformation. The influence of grain size and texture on the different tensile behaviors of these two materials is also discussed.
Numerical Investigation of Arc-Pool-Metal Vapor Behavior in GTAW with an External Magnetic Field
Authors: Han Yu , Chen Ji , Li Linqi , Wang Lin , Wu Chuansong
Published: September 2020

Gas tungsten arc welding with an external magnetic field is proven to suppress weld defects while improving welding speed. A three-dimensional numerical model that considers interactions among the arc plasma, weld pool, metal vapor, and external magnetic field is developed. The influences of the external magnetic field and metal vapor on arc and weld pool behaviors are investigated. The external magnetic field has an important influence on the arc shape and the weld pool flow field. The metal vapor increases the arc radiation loss but decreases the conductivity and local current density.
Microstructural Evolution of Multi-Pass Caliber-Rolled Mg–Sn and Mg–Sn–Mn Alloys
Authors: Yu Jinyeong , Liao Hongxin , Lee Jeong Hun , Moon Young Hoon , Yoon Hyun Sik , Kim Jonghyun , Lee Taekyung
Published: September 2020

Multi-pass caliber rolling has proven its vast potential for ultrafine-scale grain refinement and mass production of various metals. Nevertheless, the studies related to Mg alloys have primarily focused only on a few commercial materials, such as AZ31 and ZK60 Mg alloys. This is the first study to investigate caliber-rolled Mg–1Sn (TM10) and Mg–1Sn–1Mn (TM11) alloys. Specifically, this work aims to elucidate the microstructural characteristics of these alloys, including grain refinement, recrystallization, and texture development. Such features were discussed from the viewpoints of alloying effects (i.e., Sn and Mn) and mechanical effects (i.e., caliber-rolling strains). The combination of the addition of Mn and high-redundant strain results in effective grain refinement of the caliber-rolled TM11 Mg alloys. In addition, both TM10 and TM11 Mg alloys exhibit a unique split basal texture, wherein the basal poles are tilted in the plane normal to the rolling direction.
Simultaneous Quantification and Pharmacokinetic Study of Five Homologs of Dalbavancin in Rat Plasma Using UHPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Zhu Difeng , Ping Li , Hong Yawen , Shen Jiale , Weng Qinjie , He Qiaojun
Published: September 2020

Dalbavancin is a novel semisynthetic glycopeptide antibiotic that comprises multiple homologs and isomers of similar polarities. However, pharmacokinetic studies have only analyzed the primary components of dalbavancin, namely B0 and B1. In this study, an ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed to simultaneously determinate and investigate the five homologous components of dalbavancin, namely, A0, A1, B0, B1, and B2, in rat plasma. In this method, methanol was used to precipitate plasma, and a triple-bonded alkyl chromatographic column was used for molecule separation, using 0.1% formic acid-acetonitrile as the mobile phase for gradient elution. Targeted homologs were analyzed by a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer using positive electrospray ionization in multiple reaction monitoring mode. The linearity range was 50–2500 ng/mL with a high correlation coefficient (r2 > 0.998). This method was successfully applied in the pharmacokinetic analysis of dalbavancin hydrochloride to investigate dalbavancin components in rats.
Well-Defined Thermo-Responsive Copolymers Based on Oligo(Ethylene Glycol) Methacrylate and Pentafluorostyrene for the Removal of Organic Dyes from Water
Authors: Zuppardi Federica , Malinconico Mario , D’Agosto Franck , D’Ayala Giovanna Gomez , Cerruti Pierfrancesco
Published: September 2020

Thermo-responsive copolymers based on oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (OEGMA, Mn = 300 g/mol) and pentafluorostyrene (PFS), coded PFG, were synthesized by RAFT polymerization, using a trithiocarbonate (CTTPC) as controlling agent. Different molar masses were targeted and dispersities lower than 1.51 were obtained. The thermally triggered self-assembly of the resulting PFG copolymers in water was investigated by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The lower critical solution temperature (LCST) slightly increased with the molecular weight in the 26–30 °C temperature range, whereas the sizes of the intermicellar aggregates formed upon self-assembly tended to decrease with increasing molecular weights (ranging from 1415 to 572 nm). The resulting thermally-induced polymer aggregates were then used to encapsulate and remove organic contaminants from water. Nile Red (NR) and Thiazole yellow G (TYG) were employed as hydrophobic and hydrophilic model contaminants, respectively. Experimental results evidenced that higher molecular weight copolymers removed up to 90% of NR from aqueous solution, corresponding to about 10 mg of dye per g of copolymer, regardless of NR concentration. The removal of TYG was lower with respect to NR, decreasing from about 40% to around 20% with TYG concentration. Finally, the copolymers were shown to be potentially recycled and reused in the treatment of contaminated water.
Using Sulfobutylated and Sulfomethylated Lignin as Dispersant for Kaolin Suspension
Authors: Hopa Derya Yesim , Fatehi Pedram
Published: September 2020

Kraft lignin is an abundant natural resource, but it is underutilized. In this study, sulfoalkylated lignin derivatives with similar charge densities but with different alkyl chain length were produced via sulfobutylation and sulfomethylation reactions. The contact angle studies revealed that sulfobutylated lignin (SBL) with longer alkyl chains had a higher hydrophobicity than sulfomethylated lignin (SML) did. The adsorption behavior of sulfoalkylated lignins was studied using a Quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM-D) on Al2O3 coated surface as representative of positively charged sites of kaolin particles. The results of adsorption studies showed that SBL deposited more greatly than SML did on the Al2O3 surface, and it generated a thicker but less viscoelastic adlayer on the surface. The adlayer thickness and configuration of molecules on the surface were also related to the zeta potential and stabilization performance of the polymers in the kaolin suspension system. The results also confirmed that both lignin derivatives were very effective in dispersing kaolin particles at neutral pH, and their effectiveness was hampered under alkaline or acidic pH.
Construction and Evaluation of an Educational Video: Nursing Assessment and Intervention of Patients’ Spiritual Needs
Authors: Rodrigues Juliane Cristina , Miranda Talita Prado Simão , Fulquini Francine Lima , Guilherme Caroline , Caldeira Sílvia , Campos de Carvalho Emilia
Published: September 2020

Spirituality is particularly important in health and illness transitions and is a fundamental dimension of healthcare. However, nurses often feel underprepared to provide spiritual care and the use of dynamic and interactive strategies, such as educational videos, can facilitate the development of this competency in undergraduate education. This study aimed to construct and evaluate an educational video lasting 10 min and 52 s for nursing students concerning the assessment of patients’ spiritual needs. The methodological study was based on the pre-production, production, and post-production phases of the video with an evaluation of the comprehension and comprehensiveness of the content. The results demonstrated the pre-production phase was considered appropriate by the judges and allowed the phase of production of the educational video, considered an educational resource by 100% the experts. Nursing students were enrolled in the evaluation and 75% considered the content and the learning experience useful for their future roles as nurses. So, the educational video was considered a tool that facilitated deepening knowledge about spirituality and motivated students to assess spirituality in clinical practice.
Advanced Therapeutics, Vaccinations, and Precision Medicine in the Treatment and Management of Chronic Hepatitis B Viral Infections; Where Are We and Where Are We Going?
Authors: Duraisamy Ganesh Selvaraj , Bhosale Dattatry , Lipenská Ivana , Huvarova Ivana , Růžek Daniel , Windisch Marc P. , Miller Andrew D.
Published: September 2020

The management of chronic hepatitis B virus (CHB) infection is an area of massive unmet clinical need worldwide. In spite of the development of powerful nucleoside/nucleotide analogue (NUC) drugs, and the widespread use of immune stimulators such as interferon-alpha (IFNα) or PEGylated interferon-alpha (PEG-IFNα), substantial improvements in CHB standards of care are still required. We believe that the future for CHB treatment now rests with advanced therapeutics, vaccination, and precision medicine, if all are to bring under control this most resilient of virus infections. In spite of a plethora of active drug treatments, anti-viral vaccinations and diagnostic techniques, the management of CHB infection remains unresolved. The reason for this is the very complexity of the virus replication cycle itself, giving rise to multiple potential targets for therapeutic intervention some of which remain very intractable indeed. Our review is focused on discussing the potential impact that advanced therapeutics, vaccinations and precision medicine could have on the future management of CHB infection. We demonstrate that advanced therapeutic approaches for the treatment of CHB, in the form of gene and immune therapies, together with modern vaccination strategies, are now emerging rapidly to tackle the limitations of current therapeutic approaches to CHB treatment in clinic. In addition, precision medicine approaches are now gathering pace too, starting with personalized medicine. On the basis of this, we argue that the time has now come to accelerate the design and creation of precision therapeutic approaches (PTAs) for CHB treatment that are based on advanced diagnostic tools and nanomedicine, and which could maximize CHB disease detection, treatment, and monitoring in ways that could genuinely eliminate CHB infection altogether.
Assessing Inter-Administrative Cooperation in Urban Public Services: A Case Study of River Municipalities in the Internal Border Area between Aragon and Catalonia (Spain)
Authors: Santasusagna Riu Albert , Galindo Caldés Ramon , Tort Donada Joan
Published: September 2020

The proper management of urban public services (UPS) ensures that a territory functions efficiently, since it guarantees optimal waste disposal, water supply, and the maintenance of communication infrastructure, among other things. In areas of high urban density located close to metropolitan cities, UPS are usually provided properly and efficiently. However, in less populated territories, lying in the periphery, significant problems and deficiencies are often encountered, being most evident in rural areas located on the administrative limits of a state or region. This paper seeks to analyze the management of UPS in the internal border area between two Spanish regions, Aragon and Catalonia. A total of 72 stakeholders (mayors and town clerks) from 49 river municipalities were involved in this study that employs a quantitative methodology (questionnaire). The perception that there are deficiencies to correct and a clear will to reach agreements and establish cooperation mechanisms is detected in many of the municipalities in the border area. A clear need to cooperate is also apparent in a series of priority UPS, including the promotion of river tourism, town access roads, urban collective passenger transport, and environmental protection.
The effectiveness of use of enterosorbent Shelltic Es when rearing of young pigs
Authors: Grikshas S. , Kulmakova N. , Spitsyna K. , Dar’in A. , Mittelshtein T.
Published: September 2020

Mycotoxins have been formed in feed are secondary metabolites of fungi and are quite stable substances that have teratogenic, mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. An effective way to combat mycotoxins in feed is the use of feed additives that adsorb toxins, prevent their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract of the animal and are excreted from the body. The infl uence of coconut enterosorbent Shelltic Es on fattening and meat qualities of young pigs has been studied. It has been found in the process of fattening that the highest feed digestibility was in pigs of the experimental group, in the diet of which enterosorbent has been added. The results of studies of the chemical composition and technological properties of pork have been provided. The positive eff ect of enterosorbent on precocity, absolute average daily gain of live weight and reduction of feed expenditures per 1 kg of gain has been revealed. In pigs from the experimental group the average thickness of the fat was higher and the area of the “muscle eye” was lower compared with animals of the control group, which indicates that higher rates of carcass yield have been obtained due to faster accumulation of fat tissue. The weight of internal organs of pigs indicates the intensity of metabolic processes in the body. In experimental animals the weight of the lungs was 0,1 kg lower, and the liver and heart were higher by 0,13 and 0,01 kg, respectively. Enterosorbent had no effect on the content of vitamins in the liver of pigs of the compared groups. The content of impurities of organochlorine toxicants and toxic elements in the meat and liver of animals of the experimental group was lower than that of control analogues. Therefore, the use of enterosorbent Shelltic Es promotes more active excretion of them from the body.
The use of sorbents in the diets of pregnant sows
Authors: Ermolova E. , Bochkarev A. , Ermolov C.
Published: September 2020

Pig breeding in Russia is one of the most important branches of animal husbandry. The share of pig breeding currently accounts for about 20 % of the total gross livestock production of the country. The profitability of this type of animal husbandry is determined by several factors, the main of which is the expenditures of feed, which is an important indicator of any agricultural enterprise engaged in the production of pork. The purpose of the work was to study the use of sorbents in the diets of pregnant sows. Scientific and economic experiment has been carried out on 3 groups of pregnant sows of Large White breed for 19 heads into each on the base of CJSC “Uralbroiler” pig complex “Rodnikovsky” in the Krasnoarmeysky district in the Chelyabinsk region. The digestibility of crude protein in the 2nd experimental group was 75,46 % the differences between the 1st control and 2nd experimental groups for this indicator were at the level of 1,41 %. The digestibility of crude fiber in sows of the 2nd experimental group exceeded of analogues of the 1st control group by 4,97 %, crude fat by 5,24 %, amounting to 41,09 (Р ≤ 0,001) and 60,47 % (Р ≤ 0,05). The feed additive glauconite in the diets of sows of the 3rd experimental group also had a positive influence on the digestibility of the main nutrients of the diet. If in the 1st control group the digestibility of dry matter was 69,23 %, in the 3rd experimental group it has increased to 72,92 % (Р ≤ 0,01) or 3,69 %, and the difference in the digestibility of organic matter was 2,08 % reaching the value of 75,51 %. The best results in the digestibility of nutrients in the diet of sows have been observed in the 2nd experimental group when using the feed additive Nabikat.
Implementation of non-traditional feed additives in cattle breeding of Yakutia
Authors: Chernogradskaya N. , Grigorev M. , Grigoreva A. , Kyundyaytseva A. , Shadrin A. , Popova A.
Published: September 2020

The results of research and production experiment on the use of local non-traditional feed additives in the feeding of Simmental first-calf heifers in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) have been presented in the article. A series of scientific and economic experiments have already been conducted to determine the norms for including local non-traditional feed additives in the rations of cattle, but they The results of research and production experiment on the use of local non-traditional feed additives in the feeding of Simmental first-calf heifers in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) have been presented in the article. A series of scientific and economic experiments have already been conducted to determine the norms for including local non-traditional feed additives in the rations of cattle, but they were not sufficient for the rational use of these feed additives. In order to determine the effectiveness of the use of local feed additives a scientific and economic experiment has been carried out under the environments of the APC “Krestyakh” in the Suntarsky district. Two groups of first-calf heifers have been selected per 50 heads in each. The groups have been formed by using the method of analogues. The environments of housing in all groups have been the same. The difference was that the experimental group of first-calf heifers have received from the local unconventional feed additives (zeolite khongurin, sapropel and Kempendyaskay salt). The results of the production test have shown that the experimental group of first-calf heifers exceeded the control group’s analogues in terms of milk yield by 233,4 kg or 9,4 %. Experimental group of first-calf heifers has had more high content of fat in milk 0,17 abs.%. When recalculating the content of fat in milk for 4 %, the difference in gross milk yield between the groups was 16,73 t or 14,3 % in favor of the experimental group. Economic analysis of the results of research and production experiment has shown that there was a significant difference in profit between the groups. So, in the control group it was 462 247,46 rubles, and in the experimental group 528 444,43 rubles. Additional profit in the experimental group was equal to 66 196,97 rubles, while the level of profitability was 8,2 %. Thus, the results of the research have shown that first-calf heifers of Simmental breed that received local non-traditional feed additives had higher milk productivity.
Mechanisms of violation of metabolic processes in the body of cows under the environments of technogenic agroecosystems
Authors: Pauli A. , Kokshanov E. , Vetrovaya E. , Fatkullin R. , Ermolova E.
Published: September 2020

In recent decades there has been an increase in the eff ects of technogenic factors, but this period can not be compared with the period of evolution of the world of animals. Frequent exposure of animals to inadequate biological and chemical factors separately and most often in a complex and in various combinations leads to a stress reduction in resistance, which is manifested in a variety of violations of all processes in the body, the activities of individual organs and systems. The purpose of this work was to study the mechanism of metabolic disorders in the body of cows in the current environmentally unfavorable situation. The high concentration of immunosuppressors, which causes a weakening of the immune function, aff ects the processes associated with the division of immunocompetent cells and in our studies this has been confi rmed by a decrease in the concentration of γ2 -globulins in the body of cows of both groups. Long-term exposure to adverse environmental factors activates functional systems specifi cally responsible for adaptation, as has shown by the analysis of the protein spectrum of cow’s blood serum. This occurs through releasing hormones, through which the hypothalamus communicates the nervous system with the endocrine system. Adaptive restructuring is accompanied by high energy costs and the development of the process as a rule ends with a decrease in resistance, because glucocorticoids inhibit protein biosynthesis, which has been confi rmed by the results obtained and activate the breakdown of tissue proteins, and as a result the level of free amino acids increases as evidenced by the activity of transaminases. The decrease in the blood glucose concentration of the studied cows to 2,71±0,08–3,10±0,09 mmol/l also confi rms the above information.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PEDAGOGICAL TECHNOLOGIES OF PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF GRAPHIC DESIGNERS IN UNIVERSITIES OF LEADING COUNTRIES OF THE WORLD
Authors: Bykhovets Inna
Published: September 2020

The worldwide trend in education is to train a professional who is able to respond quickly to the rapid development of information technologies that extend the graphic designer from the master of illustration, visual systems, advertising, and exhibition design to such areas of graphic design as moving graphics, interaction design, design animation, interactive design.
The study found that the peculiarity of such training is the collaboration of educational institutions with enterprises, firms and institutions to make sure that the educational programs offered for students training meet the needs of production, and students really acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies that are modern requirements for competitive graphic design specialist.