bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discussion of the results of the primary introduction of rare and endangered plant species of East Kazakhstan in the Altai Botanical Garden
Authors: Danilova A. N. , Kotukhov Yu. A. , Anufrieva O. A.
Published: August 2022

According to the results of the primary introduction, based on the study of adaptability indicators in cultural conditions, the studied rare and endangered species of the flora of East Kazakhstan are ranked according to three categories proposed by K. A. Sobolevskaya. The 1st category includes 45 species of rare and endangered plants that reacted positively to the conditions of culture. The second category includes 16 species that gave contradictory results of introduction due to insufficient knowledge. The third category consists of 9 highly specialized species that have given a negative result during introduction, which can be preserved only in natural habitats. When studying the adaptive potential in culture of two rare species of orchids - Dactylorhiza incarnata ( L.) Soo and Dactylorhiza maculata (L.) Soo, attracted to the primary introduction from the Kalbinsky Altai, according to the results of phenological observations, instability in the seasonal rhythms of species development associated with the weather conditions of the growing season of 2021 was revealed. When comparing morphometric indicators of D. incarnata and D. maculatа samples in natural cenopopulations and during introduction for 2019-2020, no differences were established.
Chemical elements accumulation specifics in the top of floodplain plants growing in the Yugan river valley of Surgut District, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous District-Yugra
Authors: Kravchenko I. V. , Mulyukin M. A. , Shepeleva L. F.
Published: August 2022

The present article describes the heavy metal content (Ni, Pb, Cd) in the top plant phytomass: blue marsh bog (Eleocharis palustris (L.) Roem. Schult.), furcular Anemonidium (Anemonidium dichotomum (L.) Holub), bayonet rush (Juncus filiformis L.), blue marsh vetchling (Lathyrus palustris L.), carex acuta (Carex acuta L.), reed canary grass (Phalaroides arundinacea L.), clump speedwell (Veronica longifolia L.), silverweed cinquefoil (Potentilla anserina L.), common burnet (Prunella vulgaris L.), and water sedge (Carex aquatilis Wahlenb.) growing in the Yugan River valley, Surgut District, Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Distric t- Yugra. Species, morphological and systematic features of plants were accounted. Field and chemical methods were used in the present research. The plant material was analyzed using MGA 915-MD atomic absorption spectrometer. The study revealed that observed plant species differ in heavy metals accumulation specifics, namely: water sedge accumulates Ni, Pb, Cd more than other plant species, sedge sharp - Ni, marsh bog - Ni, reedgrass - Pb, threadfoot - Pb and Cd. Based on the data obtained, we can conclude that Ni, Pb, Cd content was within standard limits in all the studied plants.
Study of photosynthetic pigments and flavonoid compounds content in Salvia officinalis L. phytomass
Authors: Kravchenko I. V. , Mulyukin M. A. , Samoylenko Z. A. , Makarova T. A. , Gulakova N. M.
Published: August 2022

The study of the pigment apparatus (chlorophylls, carotenoids) and flavonoids will allow to reveal the plants adaptation mechanisms, which subsequently can be used in ecological and biochemical studies. The purpose of the study is to determine the content of the photosynthesis pigments (chlorophylls, carotenoids) and flavonoids in the phytomass of hydroponically grown garden sage (Salvia officinalis L.) compared with the sage grown the open soil. Two varieties of the garden sage were studied: ‘Dobrinya’ and ‘Kubanets’ from two different producers. The plants were grown hydroponically under two lighting regimes (red, blue and white LEDs and white LEDs). The open-soil plant specimens (‘Kubanets’ by Johnsons, ‘Kubanets’ by Gavrish) were studied for comparison. SHIMADZU UV-1900i spectrophotometer was used to determine the pigments and flavonoids content. The study results regarding chlorophylls a, b and carotenoids in the phytomass showed the advantages of the hydroponic cultivation on the mineral wool substratum for ‘Kubanets’ by Johnsons grown under colored LEDs, ‘Kubanets’ by Gavrish grown under white and colored LEDs, and ‘Dobrinya’ variety grown under colored LEDs. In general the colored lighting is found to be more favorable than the white one for chlorophyll accumulation when the plants are cultivated in hydroponic systems. The higher content of carotenoids was observed under white LEDs for ‘Kubanets’ by Gavrish and ‘Kubanets’ by Johnsons. The flavonoids accumulation was more intensive in the open soil and under white LEDs in the hydroponics.
Considerations On The Analysis Of Permanent Deformation In The New Brazilian Asphalt Pavement Design Method
Authors: Morais de Souza Paloma , Dos Santos de Oliveira Fernanda Ligia , Paula de Lima Marcus Vinícius , Fernandes Júnior José Leomar
Published: August 2022

The motivation for this study comes from the technical-scientific advance, which has increased the theoretical bases of the design of pavements over time and, mainly, because the new Brazilian pavement design method (MeDiNa) proposes the use of the Flow Number from uniaxial repeated load test to verify mechanical properties of the asphalt mixture as sufficient to eliminate other tests related to permanent deformation of the asphalt layer. This paper is a literature review with a collection of studies about the design of asphalt mixtures, results of large-scale paving tests, and the evolution of pavement design methods, regarding the understanding of permanent deformation in the asphalt layer. The information collected indicates that the Flow Number is a good (“it is necessary”) parameter for evaluating the behavior of an asphalt mixture regarding permanent deformation, but, for a better evaluation in MeDiNa, it is necessary to carry out other tests (“it is not sufficient”), including large-scale and long-term evaluation tests.
Endoscopic Incision Therapy for Benign Pyloric Stricture
Authors: Choi Jeongmin
Published: August 2022

We report that an 82-year-old woman with benign pyloric stricture and fibrous scars around the pylorus was safely treated with endoscopic incisional therapy using an insulation-tipped knife. At the 1-year follow-up endoscopy, the pylorus was open.
Effect of allergen-specific immunotherapy on cytokine concentration and sensitization to house dust mite in patients with bronchial asthma
Authors: Sidorenko E. , Vykhrystsenko L.
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the study is assessment of the effect of sublingual-oral and intradermal allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) on sensitization to house dust mite, concentration of class E immunoglobulins (IgE), and levels of interleukins (IL-5, IL-8, TGF-β) in patients with bronchial asthma (BA). Materials and methods. The study involved 80 patients aged 18-60 years with allergic and mixed BA who received standard pharmacotherapy (PT) and low-dose sublingual-oral ASIT (40 patients), PT and high-dose intradermal ASIT (30 patients), only PT (10 patients). The dynamics of skin sensitization and the level of IgE antibodies to the D.pteronyssinus mite, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-5 (IL-5) in blood serum were assessed after 12 months after the start of ASIT. The results of the study. Under the influence of intradermal and sublingual-oral ASIT, but not PT, the level of IL-8 decreased (p=0.007 and p=0.005, respectively) and skin sensitization to the house dust mite allergen D.pteronyssinus (p<0.001 in both ASIT groups), decreased the level of IgE antibodies to house dust mite (p=0.012 and p=0.027, respectively), the level of TGF-β increased with its initially low level (p=0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion. Both ASIT methods induced immunological tolerance in patients, suppressing skin sensitization and reducing the production of specific IgE, and also exerted a modulating effect on the immune response by increasing the level of TGF-β.
Allergic rhinitis as a comorbid disease with Covid-19 infection
Authors: Shchurok I. , Derkach Y.
Published: August 2022

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the most common disease (28.3%) among allergic pathology. Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is characterized by a variety of clinical conditions ranging from mild symptoms to severe pneumonia and death. Nasal and ocular manifestations are included in the number of possible manifestations of Covid-19, therefore differential diagnosis of AR and coronavirus infection is important. The penetration of the Sars-CoV-2 virus occurs through the nasal and oral mucosa; scientists have paid close attention to the local immunity of these mucous membranes. Respiratory allergies have not been reported as risk factors for SARS- CoV-2 infection. Intranasal corticosteroids have a dose- dependent suppression of the expression of both ACE2 and the transmembrane protease, serine 2. Respiratory allergy (AR, asthma) and controlled exposure to allergens are associated with a significant decrease in ACE2 expression. Patients with Covid-19 infection need to continue intranasal corticosteroid treatment at the recommended dose for AR, as more frequent sneezing after cessation means more spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The importance of adhering to inhaled and intranasal corticosteroid therapy, which will achieve optimal control of upper and lower respiratory tract diseases, and may also provide protection against viral triggers, including SARS-CoV-2. Allergic rhinitis is not a contraindication for Covid-19 vaccination.
Role of Kupfer cells in development of the immune response in liver transplantation cytokines in viral infection
Authors: Ziamko V. , Okulich V. , Dzyadzko A.
Published: August 2022

Kupffer cells are a large collection of resident tissue macrophages derived from monocytes and producing pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, proteases and oxygen radicals that promote the induction and stimulation of immunity to various pathogens, but at the same time can lead to liver damage. This review provides a better idea of the mechanism of graft rejection due to hyperactivation of Kupffer cells. Possible methods of inhibition of Kupffer cells without the subsequent development of hepatotoxicity are considered that may have a potential to prevent a hyperimmune response and organ rejection.
Peculiarities of innate immunity factors and cytokine profile in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Yudina S. , Rusanova T. , Kiseleva V. , Arkhipova A. , Ivanova I. , Makeevа I.
Published: August 2022

Аtopic dermatitis is considered a multifactorial disease, with immune disfunction playing the main role in the development and chronic course of the disease. The aim of this study was the assessment of the functional activity of neutrophils and the peculiarities of the cytokine profile in patients with uncomplicated and complicated forms of atopic dermatitis. Materials and methods . All patients with atopic dermatitis were divided into two groups: the first group included patients with an uncomplicated form of atopic dermatitis, and the second group included patients whose disease was complicated by secondary pyoderma. The functional activity of neutrophils was studied using the chemiluminescence method, the quantitative content of α-defensins and cytokines in the peripheral blood by the ELISA method. Results. Comparison of the functional activity of neutrophils revealed a decrease in their chemiluminescence in patients with complicated pyoderma form of the disease in relation to uncomplicated form of atopic dermatitis. The production of alpha-defensins was significantly increased in both variants of the disease, but was 1.5 times lower in the complicated form. The level of IL-4, one of the cytokines that determine the development and course of allergic inflammation, exceeded on average 2.5 times the indicators of donors, the content of IL-2, a key cytokine of adaptive immunity, was 2 times lower than the control values, which indicates a lack of adaptive immunity in these patients. Similar changes were found in the IFN-gamma indices, the level of which was 1.4 times lower than normal in both forms of the disease. Conclusions. Thus, in patients with complicated and uncomplicated forms of AD, significant differences were revealed in the functional activity of neutrophils, production of α-defensins and cytokine profile, more pronounced in patients with complicated pyoderma form of the disease. Determination of the level of α-defensins (HNP 1-3), IL-2 and TNF-alfa can serve as a prognostic criterion for the severity of the course of blood pressure and a personalized approach to treatment.
Pandemic of vitamin D deficiency
Authors: Albanova V.
Published: August 2022

Vitamin D (VD) comes only in a small amount externally, since the main source is synthesis in the skin. Its activation also occurs in the body, it has its own nuclear receptors and is essentially a prohormone. In addition to the "classic" action on calcium-phosphorus metabolism, VD regulates the expression of genes that control functions such as proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, ion transport, DNA repair, protection against reactive oxygen species, and apoptosis through its receptors in many cell types. This is associated with participation in the immune response, angiogenesis, aging, detoxification, and suppression of inflammation. The majority of the world's population is deficient of VD. The treatment and maintenance of optimal blood levels affect not only the probability of occurrence and severity of certain malignant tumors, autoimmune, infectious, cardiovascular, allergic, nervous, bronchopulmonary and skin diseases, but also their outcome and life expectancy.
Seguir en lo mismo: representaciones de paz y conflicto de jóvenes del Catatumbo ¿Paz imperfecta o paz imposible?
Authors: Urbina Cárdenas Jesús Ernesto , Díaz Camarón Julia Johanna , Pérez Fernández Blanca Johanna
Published: August 2022

El presente artículo constituye una aproximación a la comprensión de las representaciones sociales de paz y conflicto de un grupo de estudiantes de un centro educativo del Catatumbo, territorio ubicado en el Departamento Norte de Santander en la frontera con Venezuela y caracterizado por la presencia de grupos ilegales y el aumento de cultivos ilícitos. La investigación se fundamenta en el enfoque procesual de la teoría de las representaciones sociales a partir de las dimensiones de actitud, información y campo de representación. Estas representaciones se entienden como constructos objetivados y anclados en las prácticas sociales de esta población. Los hallazgos muestran una visión dual sobre la paz: una paz en apariencia imposible que se preserva como imaginario de esperanza, una especie de escepticismo que actúa subrepticiamente como factor de sobrevivencia; y una visión de temor y rechazo al conflicto armado, a los actores armados y al olvido del Estado. Se concluye, que frente a estas representaciones de una paz indeleble pero motivadora, y un conflicto asociado a la perversidad y a la muerte, solo se puede sobrevivir con la imaginación representada en lo que los jóvenes llaman malicia indígena.
El género como cuestión de clase en las trayectorias intergeneracionales en Buenos Aires
Authors: Seid Gonzalo
Published: August 2022

En el presente artículo se analiza la intersección entre clase social y género en trayectorias biográficas de varones y mujeres de Buenos Aires nacidos en las décadas del sesenta y setenta. Se analizan 35 relatos de vida basados en entrevistas en profundidad, que relevaron información ocupacional, educativa y familiar, así como sobre eventos y transiciones biográficas. Las trayectorias de clase y los condicionamientos derivados de la posición social adoptan modalidades específicas según género y están sujetas a mecanismos específicos del ámbito doméstico en los que interviene la dimensión de género.
La formación técnica y tecnológica como apuesta de desarrollo local. El programa Universidad al Barrio en Barranquilla
Authors: Zuñiga Romero Adolfo Mario , Pineda Duque Javier Armando
Published: August 2022

Este artículo tiene como finalidad entender la contribución de la educación técnica y tecnológica en la generación de empleo y emprendimiento, como elementos importantes en el desarrollo local, al evaluar la eficacia del programa Universidad al Barrio en el Distrito de Barranquilla. Esto se logra bajo un enfoque mixto tanto de análisis documental como de consulta a algunos de los actores principales, para valorar su eficacia a partir del alcance, la calidad, empleabilidad y emprendimiento del programa. Los resultados muestran que el programa logra altos niveles de cobertura y empleabilidad en jóvenes de estratos socioeconómicos bajos, sin embargo, tiene grandes desafíos en términos de calidad.
Programa sobre movilidad segura en entornos ferroviarios. Una aproximación desde el compromiso social al cambio de comportamientos para la prevención
Authors: Carrascosa Laura Lorenzo , Liberal Liberal José Manuel , Táuler Alcaraz Ángeles
Published: August 2022

Las significativas consecuencias humanas, sociales, económicas, de salud pública y de impacto en la opinión pública que tienen ciertas conductas imprudentes, justifica que la seguridad en los espacios ferroviarios sea de interés no sólo para las empresas ferroviarias, sino también para administraciones y la sociedad en general. La FFE promueve un Programa sobre Movilidad Segura en Entornos Ferroviarios en España cuyo fin es fomentar la cultura de la seguridad mediante la información y la sensibilización, potenciando un mayor compromiso social en materia de seguridad vial ferroviaria. Este programa surge de la certeza de que la educación para la prevención es una herramienta útil para promover actitudes y comportamientos seguros entre la población. El objetivo de esta comunicación es definir una serie de estrategias de educación y sensibilización dentro de los espacios ferroviarios.
Grenzüberschreitende Information zum Umweltrecht
Authors: Hantsche Louisa
Published: August 2022

Der Zugang zu Recht ist in jedem EU‑Staat anders geregelt. Wer Informationen oder Rechtsschutz sucht, findet sich häufig in einem dichten Regelungsdschungel wieder. Das Europäische Justizportalwill dem entgegenwirken. Neben den klassischen Rechtsgebieten spielt auch das Umweltrecht eine besondere Rolle.
Evaluation of dried Khat (Catha Edulis) leaf as natural additives on egg quality, embryonic mortality, and chick quality of white leghorn layers
Authors: Asfaw A. G. , Abebe M. G. , Senbeta E. K.
Published: August 2022

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of supplementation of Khat leave as a natural feed additive on egg quality, fertility, embryonic mortality, hatchability, and chick quality of White Leghorn (WL) layers. One hundred fifty-six hens and twenty-four cocks of WL at twenty-four weeks of age were randomly dis-tributed to four treatments, each replicated three times with thirteen layers and two cocks per replication and kept on a deep litter system. Treatment rations were formulated by the addition of Khat leave on layers ration with the proportion of 0% (T1), 0.2% (T2), 0.4% (T3), and 0.6% (T4). All data were subjected to analysis of variance. The egg weight of layers in T3 (54.1) was higher (P<0.05) than that of layers in T4 (51.5) and T1 (51.8). Roche color reading was significantly higher for T4 (4.7±0.19) than T3 (3.4±0.19), T2 (2.2±0.19), and T1 (1.7±0.19). There were no significant differences (P > 0.05) among treatments in yolk height, yolk index, yolk diameter, albumen height, Haugh unit, fertility, hatchability, chick weight, and visual score. Embryonic mortality percentage was significantly (P<0.05) higher for T1 than for other treatments. Chick length was significantly (p<0.05) higher in T2, T4, and T3 than in T1. Finally, this study can be concluded that the use of dried Khat leaves as an additive up to 0.6% in ration of White Leghorn layers increased eggshell weight and yolk coulor and reduced embryonic mortality.
The association of prolactin gene polymorphism with egg production traits in Alabio and Mojosari ducks
Authors: Damayanti I. , Sudaryati S. , Maharani D.
Published: August 2022

Prolactin (PRL) affects egg production in duck as it induces broodiness and promotes follicles development. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between polymorphism of PRL gene and egg production traits in Alabio and Mojosari Ducks. Genomic DNA were isolated from 111 blood samples (51 Alabio and 60 Mojosari). PCR and sequencing were performed to identify poly-morphisms and genotype of the animals. Data recording of the ducks including body weight at 16 weeks of age and at first egg, average weight of three first eggs laid and egg number laid up to 3, 6 and 12 months production were collected. Data were analyzed using independent sample t-Test. As a result, two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were detected in intron 4. Both SNP C-5796A and SNP T-5817C were found to have association with egg number laid up to three months (P<0,005). The CA/TC genotype had higher egg number than CC/TT. These suggested that SNP C-5796A and SNP T-5817C could be potential markers for marker assisted selection to increase egg number in duck.
Analiza projektów studenckich dotyczących pracy dydaktycznej z uczniami o specjalnych potrzebach edukacyjnych w klasie włączającej i zdigitalizowanym środowisku – odpowiedź na czasy pandemii COVID-19
Authors: Król-Gierat Werona , Rak Katarzyna
Published: August 2022

The 2020/21 academic year proved to be unprecedented in many ways for students and lecturers alike. The need to move from traditional education to a virtual classroom during the Covid-19 pandemic became a stimulus to seek new ways to work and expand knowledge. The aim of this paper is to present the outcome of project work completed by university students of a teaching specialization, which included ways of teaching and ICT tools suitable for working with learners with Special Educational Needs (SEN) in a traditional classroom and in a digital environment. With the increase in remote learning, the challenge of meeting the needs of learners with SEN is considerable. Therefore, inclusive classrooms should be designed with remote learning in mind, so that the teachers are ready to substitute or enrich traditional resources with educational technologies. With the right solutions, teachers can innovate and redefine their classrooms, remodelling them into a mix of face-to face and online delivery. However, different categories of SEN require different solutions. The analysis of the projects confirms that when students are involved in problem-solving and focusing on solutions, they learn more about how to contribute to effective learning in a meaningful way.
The Pontic Princess Calligone, the Queen Themisto, and the Amazons in the Black Sea (P.Oxy. 5355 and PSI 981)
Authors: López Martínez María
Published: August 2022

Only two papyri (P.Oxy. 5355 and PSI 981) are preserved of the lost Greek novel known as Calligone, whose female protagonist goes to war as an ally of the Amazons. Here, I propose new hypotheses concerning the historical events which may have inspired the action of the novel and suggest a reconstruction of the plot.
Interlaboratory comparison study of immunosuppressant analysis using a fully automated LC-MS/MS system
Authors: Zahr Noël , Duce Helen , Duffy Joanne , Webster Craig , Rentsch Katharina M.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

All guidelines recommend LC-MS/MS as the analytical method of choice for the quantification of immunosuppressants in whole blood. Until now, the lack of harmonization of methods and the complexity of the analytical technique have prevented its widespread use in clinical laboratories. This can be seen in international proficiency schemes, where more than half of the participants used immunoassays. With the Cascadion SM Clinical analyzer (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Oy, Vantaa, FI) a fully automated LC-MS/MS system has been introduced, which enables the use of LC-MS/MS without being an expert in mass spectrometry.

Methods

To verify the interlaboratory comparison of the immunosuppressant assay on this type of instrument, three centers across Europe compared 1097 routine whole blood samples, each site sharing its own samples with the other two. In other experiments, the effects of freezing and thawing of whole blood samples was studied, and the use of secondary cups instead of primary tubes was assessed.

Results

In the Bland–Altman plot, the comparison of the results of tacrolimus in fresh and frozen samples had an average bias of only 0.36%. The respective data for the comparison between the primary and secondary tubes had an average bias of 1.14%. The correlation coefficients for patient samples with cyclosporine A (n=411), everolimus (n=139), sirolimus (n=114) and tacrolimus (n=433) were 0.993, 0.993, 0.993 and 0.990, respectively.

Conclusions

The outcome of this study demonstrates a new level of result harmonization for LC-MS/MS based immunosuppressant analysis with a commercially available fully automated platform for routine clinical application.
Performance of machine learning techniques on prediction of esophageal varices grades among patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Bayani Azadeh , Asadi Farkhondeh , Hosseini Azamossadat , Hatami Behzad , Kavousi Kaveh , Aria Mehrad , Zali Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2022

Objectives

All patients with cirrhosis should be periodically examined for esophageal varices (EV), however, a large percentage of patients undergoing screening, do not have EV or have only mild EV and do not have high-risk characteristics. Therefore, developing a non-invasive method to predict the occurrence of EV in patients with liver cirrhosis as a non-invasive method with high accuracy seems useful. In the present research, we compared the performance of several machine learning (ML) methods to predict EV on laboratory and clinical data to choose the best model.

Methods

Four-hundred-and-ninety data from the Liver and Gastroenterology Research Center of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in the period 2014–2021, were analyzed applying models including random forest (RF), artificial neural network (ANN), support vector machine (SVM), and logistic regression.

Results

RF and SVM had the best results in general for all grades of EV. RF showed remarkably better results and the highest area under the curve (AUC). After that, SVM and ANN had the AUC of 98%, for grade 3, the SVM algorithm had the highest AUC after RF (89%).

Conclusions

The findings may help to better predict EV with high precision and accuracy and also can help reduce the burden of frequent visits to endoscopic centers. It can also help practitioners to manage cirrhosis by predicting EV with lower costs.
Extracellular hemin is a reverse use-dependent gating modifier of cardiac voltage-gated Na+ channels
Authors: Gessner Guido , Jamili Mahdi , Tomczyk Pascal , Menche Dirk , Schönherr Roland , Hoshi Toshinori , Heinemann Stefan H.
Published: August 2022

Heme (Fe2+-protoporphyrin IX) is a well-known protein prosthetic group; however, heme and hemin (Fe3+-protoporphyrin IX) are also increasingly viewed as signaling molecules. Among the signaling targets are numerous ion channels, with intracellular-facing heme-binding sites modulated by heme and hemin in the sub-µM range. Much less is known about extracellular hemin, which is expected to be more abundant, in particular after hemolytic insults. Here we show that the human cardiac voltage-gated sodium channel hNaV1.5 is potently inhibited by extracellular hemin (IC
50 ≈ 80 nM), while heme, dimethylhemin, and protoporphyrin IX are ineffective. Hemin is selective for hNaV1.5 channels: hNaV1.2, hNaV1.4, hNaV1.7, and hNaV1.8 are insensitive to 1 µM hemin. Using domain chimeras of hNaV1.5 and rat rNaV1.2, domain II was identified as the critical determinant. Mutation N803G in the domain II S3/S4 linker largely diminished the impact of hemin on the cardiac channel. This profile is reminiscent of the interaction of some peptide voltage-sensor toxins with NaV channels. In line with a mechanism of select gating modifiers, the impact of hemin on NaV1.5 channels is reversely use dependent, compatible with an interaction of hemin and the voltage sensor of domain II. Extracellular hemin thus has potential to modulate the cardiac function.
NanoParticle Flow Reactor (NanoPFR): a tested model for simulating carbon nanoparticle formation in flow reactors
Authors: Juan Neil A. , Naseri Ali , Kholghy M. Reza , Thomson Murray J.
Published: August 2022

Flow reactors are widely used to study the formation of various nanoparticles, such as carbon black, soot, nickel, titania, and silica. Such reactors provide well-controlled conditions, making them a favored laboratory tool to investigate the details of particle formation. Here we present NanoParticle Flow Reactor (NanoPFR), a detailed model to simulate nanoparticle synthesis in flow reactors. The model predicts the agglomerate fractal-like morphology and size distribution with a 2-variable sectional population balance model coupled with gas-phase chemistry. The particle formation processes employed in the code are tested using detailed discrete element modeling simulations and then used to predict carbon black formation from ethylene pyrolysis experiments from the literature. The code is a robust flow reactor predictive tool with a strong foundation that can serve as a basis for further development, including the simulation of other nanoparticles formation.
The value(s) of English as global linguistic capital: a dialogue between linguistic justice and sociolinguistic approaches
Authors: Codó Eva , Riera-Gil Elvira
Published: August 2022

Theorists of linguistic justice tend to assume that English (particularly its native varieties) has paramount and stable value as a global communicative tool. From this alleged value they identify several injustices for non-native speakers, like unequal opportunities and lower dignity, related to the instrumental and identity-related values of languages. In this article we challenge assumptions about the real-life value of English by engaging in an interdisciplinary dialogue that connects normative theories and sociolinguistic theories of value. Through the analysis of ethnographic case studies, we conclude that the value of English (and nativeness in English) as linguistic capital is highly context-dependent, to the extent that possessing native skills may have no positive effects for an English speaker. Both language-centred factors (linguistic awareness and adaptive skills) and non-language centred factors (markets and social indexicalities) determine this value. We highlight that normative approaches to languages cannot address instrumental and identity-related values separately, because identity is instrumental to communicative interactions. We conclude that multilingualism fulfils better than monolingualism (either in English or in state majority languages) the goals of linguistic justice traditionally associated with the latter. Finally, we engage in a critical reflection about the suitability and conditions of possibility of interdisciplinary research.
Linguistic justice and global English: theoretical and empirical approaches
Authors: Soler Josep , Morales-Gálvez Sergi
Published: August 2022

The global spread of English and its impact on the pursuit of linguistic justice has been a topic of concern for scholars in a wide range of different fields in the humanities and social sciences. Firmly convinced of the usefulness of cross-field collaboration to advance our understanding of the expansion of English globally, in this special issue we bring together experts in sociolinguistics and political theory with two goals in mind: (1) to illustrate, empirically, its consequences for speakers in situated contexts; and (2) to propose potential normative responses to the global spread of English. In order to frame the overarching theme of the special issue, and to show our stance as guest editors in connection to global English, in this opening piece we develop a critique to Philippe Van Parijs’ notion of linguistic justice. In particular, we take issue with his vision that promoting English as a global lingua franca is a good idea in order to enhance everyone’s equality of opportunities (e.g., in the labour market). We question such an assumption from both a theoretical and empirical point of view, and argue that having equal access to English is not sufficient to equalize everyone’s opportunities.
Germination ecology of three Asteraceae annualsArctotis hirsuta,Oncosiphon suffruticosum, andCotula duckittiaein the winter-rainfall region of South Africa: A review
Authors: Oliver Roger Clive , Jimoh Muhali Olaide , Laubscher Charles Petrus
Published: August 2022

Asteraceae annuals from South Africa’s winter-rainfall region often exhibit poor germination, and it is a challenge to establish a garden display using fresh seeds from the wild.Arctotis hirsuta(Harv.) Beauvard is a popular ornamental,Oncosiphon suffruticosum(L. Bolus) K. Bremer & Humphries is important in traditional medicine, andCotula duckittiae(L. Bolus) K. Bremer & Humphries has a vulnerable (VU) status on the red list of South African plants.C. duckittiaeis teetering on the brink of extinction in a few localities on severely threatened ecosystems due to continued pressure on land for housing developments and invasive aliens. At present, there is no knowledge ofO. suffruticosumbeing cultivated exclusively for its healing properties. The successful cultivation of this species may allow it to fulfil not only a more acute medicinal role in society but also in the economy to create precious job opportunities. The potential to develop or improve certain plant breeding lines ofA. hirsutacommercially, besides just normal wild forms of these species at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, is huge. This, in addition to the ongoing pressure exerted on wild populations ofC. duckittiae, warrants investigations into aspects of germination ecology of this VU species of the West Coast.
Autosomal dominant sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy associated with a novel mutation of KCNT1
Authors: Lu Jinyu , Zhao Gaohua , Lv Dayao , Cao Lanxiao , Zhao Guohua
Published: August 2022

Autosomal dominant sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy (ADSHE) is characterized by severe sleep-related rigid hypermotor seizures. The pathogenic genes of ADSHE include genes encoding subunits of the neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, KCNT1, DEPDC5, NPRL2/3, CABP4, and CRH. Individuals with KCNT1-related ADSHE are more likely to develop seizures at a younger age, have cognitive comorbidity, and display psychiatric and behavioral problems. In this study, a 12-year-old Chinese girl was referred for genetic evaluation of grand mal seizures. She had paroxysmal convulsions of the limbs and loss of consciousness just after falling asleep without obvious triggers. A novel heterozygous missense mutation c.2797C > T (p.Arg933Cys) in exon 24 of the KCNT1 was identified in the proband by whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing, and the clinical symptoms were compatible with ADSHE. The proband’s father has been showing similar symptoms for more than 20 years and had the same site mutation. Her mother and sister were physically and genetically normal. The study revealed a novel variant in the KCNT1 and expanded the mutation spectrum for this clinical condition. Our results provide further evidence supporting a causative role in KCNT1 variants in ADSHE.
Class tutoring in Russian schools as a part of social education: The analysis of educational studies
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University, Andrienko Elena Vasilevna , Popova Oksana Sergeevna ,   Republican Institute for Vocational Education, Romm Tatyana Aleksandrovna ,   Novosibirsk State Pedagogical University
Published: August 2022

Introduction. The author examines the development of the institute of class tutorship as an element of social education in Russia, taking into account the current problems of socialization of children and youth, as well as theoretical pedagogical concepts of Russian and international school education. The purpose of the article is to conduct a comparative analysis of approaches to moral and social education within various educational systems and identify the characteristic features of class tutoring in the comparative context. Materials and Methods. The research is theoretical in nature, including analysis, comparison and generalization of Russian and international conceptions of social education as a part of school education. The methodological basis of the research includes historical, socio-cultural, cross-cultural and axiological approaches which enable to consider the specifics of the development of class tutorship on the basis of historical analysis, taking into account social changes, the influence of changing requirements of the state and society, as well as the transformation of value orientations in the process of education development. Results. The paper describes the characteristic features of class tutorship as an element of social education within school education system on the basis of the identified trends in the development of this process in the historical aspect; defines the specifics of Russian educational approaches compared to similar phenomena in international school education; identifies the differences in the professional activities of the class teacher and tutor as subjects of psychological and educational support for students; reveals the interrelations and contradictions of the normative educational process and the socialization of students in the changing society. Conclusions. The specificity of class tutorship as an element of social education of Russian schoolchildren is determined by: professional activities of the teacher who carries out their work in strict regulatory restrictions within the centralization of the general education process; reliance on the creation of a relatively cohesive group of students (school class), which remains almost unchanged throughout the entire period of general school education; the desire of the class teacher to create a highly organized group – a collective based on the common activities, values and relationships of all participants of the educational process; maintaining a balance between individualization and collectivism to create appropriate opportunities for self-realization and self-development of the individual with the inevitable influence of group pressure.
Studying the objectivity of educational assessment in schools based on the system of automated monitoring and evaluation
Authors:   Cherepovets State University, Tikhonova Lyudmila Pavlovna , Popova Svetlana Igorevna ,   Cherepovets State University, Mironenko Svetlana Nikolaevna ,   Cherepovets State University, Vakhrameev Pavel Sergeyevich ,   Cherepovets State University, Pitertsev Mikhail Eduardovich ,   Cherepovets State University
Published: August 2022

Introduction. The article focuses on increasing the objectivity of educational assessment of schoolchildren’s learning achievements. The purpose of the research is to substantiate the increase in the objectivity of educational assessment on the basis of an automated monitoring and evaluation system. Materials and Methods. The study followed an interdisciplinary approach, characterized by integrative properties of educational assessment theory and designing automated learning tools. The authors used the following theoretical research methods: analysis, synthesis and generalization on the problems of improving the objectivity of assessment and the development of automated learning tools. Empirical methods included questionnaires, testing, and educational action research. Results. The factors contributing to the decrease in the objectivity of educational assessment are identified: the subjective and ascertaining nature of assessment, inconsistent recording of students’ academic performance, and delayed correction of students’ learning activities. A system of automated monitoring and evaluation has been developed and implemented, which includes processing, analysis and interpretation of information and monitors the dynamics of students’ learning achievements in real time. During the application of the system, positive changes in the indicators of students’ involvement, motivation and emotional attitude to learning were revealed. The most significant changes were observed in the following indicators: cognitive efficiency, learning motivation, and anxiety (a decrease in the high level of anxiety, an increase in the levels of motivation and cognitive efficiency). The design and implementation of the system were based on organizational, educational and technical conditions. The organizational and educational conditions include various formats for incorporating the system in the structure of the assessment process, while the technical ones set the requirements for the system. Conclusions. The introduction of the automated monitoring and evaluation system contributes to formulating clear criteria for educational assessment, expanding the possibilities for building individual learning trajectories, and increasing the transparency of learning process. The objectivity of the assessment is realized due to the clarity of the requirements for the level of knowledge, skills and abilities of students; specification of the objects of assessment; compliance of the tasks with the goals of educational assessment; well-timed analysis of learning outcomes; and increasing primary schoolchildren’s motivation for learning.
Study of the possibilities of applying immersive experience of learning a foreign (English) language in the virtual reality worlds of children with disabilities
Authors:   Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, Ermolova Tatiana Victorovna , Savitskaya Natal’ya Vasil’evna ,   Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, Dedova Ol’ga Vital’evna ,   Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, Guzova Alexandra Victorovna ,   Moscow State University of Psychology and Education
Published: August 2022

Introduction. The use of "end-to-end" digital technologies to solve the problem of providing equal access to quality, in particular, foreign-language education, as one of the key goals of inclusive education, is one of the main problems of our time. However, in the absence of research interest of representatives of the academic community in this topic, the launch of the process of developing and approving such practices can be postponed for a long time. The purpose of this article is to determine the possibilities of using digital technologies in teaching children with special adaptive opportunities in a foreign (English) language. Materials and Methods. To achieve the goal, the following research methods were used: general scientific (dialectical, analysis and synthesis, comparison and analogy, annotation, scheduling and summarization), special (systemic, comparative analysis, etc.), research (analysis of Russian and international literature on the problem of research, results of experiments and practical activities of scientists and teachers, etc.). Results. The authors, firstly, have proven that neurotechnologies can act as an integral element of the educational instrumental complex, in particular, a teacher of foreign languages, in working with children with special adaptive capabilities; secondly, it is argued that by now the use of such technologies, in particular, immersive (virtual reality) in teaching both healthy children and children with special educational needs, is effective and subject to the key psychological and educational conditions recommended for implementing. Conclusions. The study has identified the possibilities of using digital technologies, namely virtual reality, in teaching a foreign (English) language to children with special educational needs. The effects produced by such technologies prove not only the possibility of using immersive experience of learning a foreign (English) language by children with special educational needs, but also the need for their integration into the pedagogical instrumental complex of inclusive foreign-language education, regardless of the level of education, the level of foreign language proficiency, teacher competence, teaching and learning facilities, etc.
How crystalline is my cellulose specimen? Probing the limits of X-ray diffraction
Authors: French Alfred
Published: August 2022

Cellulose serves as a skeleton for many of the useful products upon which we rely on each day. When we want to learn about a skeleton, it makes sense to think about X-ray methods. The same can be said when it comes to learning about the crystallinity of cellulose. Over the past six decades, the Segal X-ray diffraction (XRD) method has been popular for judging the percent crystallinity of powder samples. However, XRD patterns for ideal cellulose crystals can be easily simulated, and limitations of the Segal and other methods become obvious. Calculated patterns for model 100% crystalline powder particles are predicted to be less crystalline by the Segal method. Except for the Rietveld method, current approaches do not account for particle orientation or different shapes of crystallites. The Rietveld method has so many variables that it can easily overfit the data. The take-away message is that routine XRD examination is important for showing sample characteristics, but fractional crystallinity values are affected by constraints related to simplifications required for the analysis.
Determining the effects of some bacteria on wooden toys treated with antibacterial protective coatings
Authors: Aykan Recep , Avsar Cumhur , Bilgiç Mehmet Bilgehan , İsmail Kesik Haci
Published: August 2022

Several protective coatings enhanced by antimicrobial agents and/or pigments were considered for the wooden toy market: water-based matte varnish, an ultra-hygiene water-based matte varnish (WBV-UH), a polyurethane matte varnish (PUV), and an ultra-hygiene antiviral polyurethane matte varnish (PUV-UH), as well as a water-based dye (WBV 5%K), an ultra-hygiene water-based dye (WBV-UH 5%K), a polyurethane dye (PUV 5%K), and an ultra-hygiene polyurethane dye (PUV-UH 5%K), which contain 5% red nano-pigment (K). By utilizing 7 kinds of bacteria and 2 types of yeast that are commonly detected in routine, daily settings, the efficacy of the different protective coatings on wooden toy surface was investigated. The antibacterial and antimicrobial activities of the tested dye samples were based on the agar-well diffusion method. Ultimately, the study found that the addition of antimicrobial agents to several different protective coatings and dyes resulted in the presence of antimicrobial activity vs. the lack thereof with protective coatings and dyes alone. Additionally, some of the dyes with added antimicrobial agents were found to be effective against biofilm formation. Overall, the addition of pigment into the coating, alongside the addition of antimicrobial agents, proved to be highly effective in inhibiting growth and spread of microorganisms on wooden toy surface.
An Empirical Study of Near-synonym Choice: A Comparison of Advanced EFL Learners to L1 English Speakers
Authors: Yevchuk Alina
Published: August 2022

Near-synonyms are words which share certain semantic similarities, yet differ in their contextual usage (e.g. acquire vs obtain, evaluate vs judge). The current study compares lexical preferences and rationalizations for choosing near-synonyms of advanced C1 level non-native speakers of English (n = 45) to those given by native speakers of English (n = 58). The data has been collected using a forced-choice questionnaire which also included a justification section meant to explore respondents’ reasoning behind their lexical choices. The findings of the study suggest that EFL students may lack the depth of vocabulary knowledge necessary to choose the most suitable word from a pair of near-synonyms. Insufficient knowledge of target words resulted in EFL learners’ lexical choices and justifications being statistically different from those given by native speakers. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended that EFL teachers increase students’ exposure to various contexts as well as focus on vocabulary depth.