bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CONSTRUCTION OF EXPLICIT RUNGE-KUTTA METHODS FOR MODELING OF DYNAMIC SYSTEMS WITH DELAY
Authors: Nataliya Bondarenko  , Vasiliy Pechuk
Published: October 2021

A system of differential equations with delay is considered, which is a mathematical model of many technical processes with a time delay. Numerical Runge-Kutta methods and the method of expansion onTaylorseries on time delay  are most often used to model such systems.When the value of the delay is greater than the step of numerical integration, the numerical solution of these systems is not difficult. For this, interpolation of the prehistory of the model and numerical methods for conventional systems of differential equations are used. For example, explicit Runge-Kutta methods. Using the method of steps, a numerical solution is obtained for the required period of time. But, if the time interval is large enough in comparison with the delay, then the number of steps turns out to be large, which slows down the process of numerical integration and leads to the accumulation of errors.For small delays,Taylortime delay expansions are used and the further solution of the usual system of differential equations by a numerical method, for example, by the Runge-Kutta method. This approach has limitations on the amount of delay and is not applicable for many models.Thus, it is often necessary to apply a step of numerical integration that is larger than the delay value and continuous implicit Runge-Kutta methods, which leads to a complication of the numerical algorithm, since at each step of numerical integration it is necessary to solve systems of nonlinear equations.In this paper, based on the construction of Newton's and Taylor's polynomials, an algorithm has been developed that allows using explicit Runge-Kutta methods to solve systems with delay and the step size of numerical integration is more than the delay value. For systems with delay, an explicit Runge-Kutta method of the fifth order of approximation is constructed on the basis of the most frequently used explicit Runge-Kutta methods of the fifth order of approximation. These methods are convenient in programming, have a higher speed of calculation than implicit methods, and are applicable for steps of numerical integration that are large in comparison with the lag.
Penggunaan Lagu dan Dongeng Bahasa Inggris untuk Meningkatkan Kesadaran tentang Polusi Udara bagi Peserta TBM Kolong Jalan Layang Ciputat
Authors: Suhayati Lisa
Published: October 2021

Kegiatan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat (PKM) bertujuan untuk mengimplementasikan salah satu dari Tri Dharma Penguruan Tinggi. Lebih jauh lagi, dengan melakukan kegiatan Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat ini, kehadiran institusi perguruan tinggi dapat memberikan kontribusi yang bermanfaat terhadap perkembangan dan pengaplikasian ilmu pengetahuian. Oleh karena itu, salah satu tim Pengabdian kepada Masyarakat dari program studi Sastra Inggris Universitas Pamulang bermaksud untuk melakukan pengabdian kepada masyarakat kepada anak-anak di Taman Bacaan Masyarakat Kolong Jembatan Ciputat, yaitu sebuah organisasi yang kegiatannya memberikan perhatian terhadap pendidikan dan pengembangan masyarakat di wilayah Ciputat Tangerang Selatan, Banten. Berdasarkan fakta bahwa betapa tingginya polusi udara di wilayah Ciputat, tim bermaksud untuk melakukan penyuluhan terkait polusi udara melalui lagu dan dongeng. Dari hasil obeservasi, diperoleh bahwa anak-anak memberikan reaksi yang positif terhadap penggunaan lagu dan dongeng untuk meningkatkan kesadaran mereka terkait polusi udara. Selain itu, mereka juga memperkaya kosa kata Bahasa Inggris mereka melalui cerita yang dibawakan oleh para tutor.
Aktifitas Membaca untuk Menelusuri Pesan Moral dalam Cerita Pendek Anak
Authors: Maharini May Triranto , Sitepu Setiana Sri Wahyuni
Published: October 2021

Pengabdian kemasyarakatan ini mengangkat tema “Meningkatkan pesan moral dalam cerita pendek anak melalui aktifitas membaca”. Kegiatn ini diadakan di RW 16 Kelurahan Benda Baru, Pamulang 2. Di setiap minggunya, anak-anak di RW 16 ini mengikuti kegiatan informal untuk meningkatkan kemampuan mereka dalam berbahasa Inggris. Kegiatan ini dikoordinir oleh pengurus RW setempat. Hal ini untuk mendukung mereka agar lebih dapat mengembangkan  kemampuan mereka yang mungkin tidak mereka dapat di sekolah mereka. Tiga media utama yang digunakan dalam kegiatan pengabdian kemasyarakatan kali ini adalah teks bacaan cerita anak berbahasa Inggris, buku aktifitas peserta, video panduan dari para pembimbing. Teks bacaan anak berbahasa Inggris adalah media utama yang digunakan peserta untuk memahami pesan moral melalui kesusastraan dalam kontek kehidupan anak-anak. Kemudian buku aktifitas membaca dibuat oleh pembimbing dari Tim PkM yang merupakan teks bacaan  cerita anak berbahasa Inggris berikut dengan instruksi-instruksi aktifitas membaca. Lalu video yang dibuat oleh para pembimbing yang merupakan mahasiswa Universitas Pamulang. Video ini diperuntukkan agar memudahkan para peserta mengerti dan memahami instruksi instruksi dalam buku aktifitas membaca yang diberikan pembimbing kepada peserta. Dari semua hal tersebut maka hasil yang didapat oleh Tim PkM adalah peningkatan pemahaman peserta mengenai pesan moral yang terkandung di dalam cerita berikut kosakatanya.
Peningkatan Kemampuan Menyimak melalui Kalimat Perintah Bahasa Inggris Sehari-hari dengan Metode TPR
Authors: Sari Anita , Wirharyati Wirharyati , Sumartini Tutut , Rosyidah Rossy Halimatun
Published: October 2021

Kegiatan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kompetensi menyimak bahasa Inggris melalui instruksi bagi siswa SD Yayasan Bangun Cendikia Muda (YBMC) Cipedak Jakarta Selatan. Bahasa Inggris memiliki dua fungsi, salah satunya adalah bahasa sebagai alat komunikasi yang dibutuhkan untuk semua generasi, khususnya siswa yang perlu mempelajari berbagai mata pelajaran yang buku-buku sumbernya masih ditulis dalam bahasa Inggris. Menyimak adalah salah satu keterampilan penguasaan bahasa untuk menguasai bahasa Inggris. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif karena berkaitan dengan fenomena proses pembelajaran bahasa Inggris di YBMC. Teori Hedge (200) tentang menyimak digunakan untuk membuktikan peran menyimak dalam penguasaan bahasa Inggris. Data yang diperoleh dari survei dan wawancara dianalisis dan dijelaskan dalam format esai. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa murid YBCM sangat antusias dan memberikan sikap yang positif dalam penggunaan instruksi bahasa Inggris sehari-hari. Selain itu, mereka juga meningkatkan kemampuan menyimak dalam bahasa Inggris serta menambah kosakata bahasa Inggris.
CAКРАЛЬНА ТРАДИЦІЯ В СУЧАСНІЙ УКРАЇНСЬКІЙ БАЯННІЙ МУЗИЦІ
Authors: Калашник Марія , Мельніков Семен
Published: October 2021

У статті сучасна українська баянна музика позиціонована як концептуалізований перетин традицій та новацій, позначений розширенням стильової, жанрової, виразової палітри, креативною дуалістичністю й актуалізацією сакральної традиції. Як чинники її розвитку в сучасній національній баянній музиці визначені: академічний статус баяну, осмислення його як інструмента з безмежним потенціалом; органологічна специфіка інструмента; полілогічність культури межі XX–XXI ст., відродження релігійного світобачення та проблематизація духовних пошуків людини. Виявлено такі варіанти інтерпретації сакральної традиції в сучасній українській баянній музиці: декларативне посилання на її канонічні жанрові витоки, закріплене на вербальному рівні (у творах В. Рунчака); звернення до закріплених у сакральному музичному мистецтві образів-символів, семантем (у творах В. Зубицького); символічна втілення на рівні знаків культурної пам’яті (у творах К. Цепколенко). Виявлено загальні тенденції сучасних національних баянних версій сакральної традиції: концептуальна та жанрово-стильова індивідуалізація атрибутивних жанрових моделей; створення полілогу культур у діахронії та синхронії, зокрема у конфесійному вимірі; насичення знаками й алюзіями різних культур; новаційність музичного мислення та мови; експериментальна синтетичність, обумовлена новаційністю виконавських складів, значущістю візуального та вербального компонентів, театралізації та мультимедійності.
ПЕРЕКЛАДОЗНАВЧИЙ АНАЛІЗ НОВОГО УКРАЇНСЬКОГО ПЕРЕКЛАДУ ШЕКСПІРОВОГО «КОРОЛЯ ЛІРА» В ІНТЕРПРЕТАЦІЇ Ю. І. АНДРУХОВИЧА
Authors: Кравцова Марія
Published: October 2021

Статтю присвячено перекладознавчому аналізу трагедії В. Шекспіра «King Lear» пера Ю. І. Андруховича. Автор зосереджується здебільшого на особливостях відтворення лексичного та текстового рівнів твору, виокремлює загальні характеристики перекладацької стратегії Ю. І. Андруховича та його інтерпретативної установки, ґрунтуючись на перекладознавчому аналізі вищезазначеної трагедії. Оскільки переклад був опублікований нещодавно і станом на сьогодні немає жодних відомих публікацій, які подають перекладознавчий аналіз вищезгаданого цільового тексту, це зумовлює актуальність цього дослідження. Щобільше, дана робота є своєрідним внеском не тільки у вивчення функціонування шостого українського перекладу Шекспірівської трагедії в українській літературній полісистемі, але й ще одним кроком до розуміння перекладацької особистості Ю. І. Андруховича.
Transformation of the Emergency Risk Management Methodology Based on the Conception of Sustainable Innovation Proactivity: The Global and Local Dimensions
Authors:   Sumy State University, Shkola V. Y. , Prokopenko O. V. ,   International Humanitarian University, Omelianenko V. A. ,   Sumy State Pedagogical University named after A. S. Makarenko
Published: October 2021

The article is aimed at improving fundamental methodological approaches to the system of emergency risk management on the basis of the conception of sustainable innovation proactivity, which will allow to prevent and respond in a timely manner to various kinds of destructive phenomena, will contribute to ensuring/increasing the stability and security of economic systems in the face of modern global challenges and threats (both actual and potential). As result of the research, the essence of the main categories of risk management theory is deepened; the influence of various types of global risks in dynamics is analyzed (in the short, medium and long term); the extant approaches to risk management are generalized and systematized; the authors’ own structure of the risk management process is proposed. The methodology for determining the status of economic system, a methodical approach to comprehensive risk assessment based on the theory of sustainability and the theory of complex systems are improved; the principle of integrated risk assessment based on an integrated approach to the assessment of challenges and threats through the synergy of economic, diplomatic, human, international, legal, political, and cultural dimensions of security is determined. Prospect for further research is the development of a theoretical-methodical approach to the choice of strategies and instruments to counter the challenges and threats in Ukraine under unstable socio-economic conditions, taking into account changes in the security environment and in the potential of national economies.
The Conception of Designing Reverse Flows in Supply Chains
Authors:   Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics, Ilchenko N. B. , Kochubei D. V. ,   Kyiv National University of Trade and Economics
Published: October 2021

The article examines the essence, structure and formation of management of the reverse flows processes in supply chains; the main directions and content of return flows in logistic systems and supply chains are determined; the concept and content of reverse logistics and logistics of return flows are defined. The essence of the process of reverse flows management in accordance with the reference model of business processes in the SCOR supply chains is researched. The application of a logistic approach to management of reverse flows has determined a separate sphere of logistics – reverse logistics. Enterprises in the supply chain should offer consumers an effective return management service, which allows minimizing the potential deterioration of relations with consumers to manage the process of returning to the supplier in case of expired goods or excess inventories. To carry out this process, it is necessary to properly study communication channels and business processes in order to create an effective feedback system in after-sales service to minimize the cost of return. A significant number of enterprises consider reverse logistics processes a negative phenomenon and do not focus on managing them, although enterprises that implement an effective reverse logistics process can get a number of significant advantages. They include: reducing costs, increasing the speed of customer service, maintaining the customer loyalty. The developed model of business processes allows to structure the tasks of reverse flows management and get an effective tool for the implementation of the SCOR-model of supply chains management.
Making a Decision on the Activity as Entrepreneur Based on an Entrepreneurial Idea
Authors:   National Technical University «Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute», Haponenko O. Y. , Stepurina S. O. ,   National Technical University «Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute», Pavlenko O. K. ,   National Technical University «Kharkiv Polytechnic Institute»
Published: October 2021

The article is aimed at a comparative analyzing and an applied theoretical-applied substantiating of the processes of making a fundamental managerial decision to establish an entrepreneurial activity, based on an entrepreneurial idea. According to the authors, the primary task of forming an entrepreneurial idea is the need to determine the purpose, ways and means of achieving it, as well as relevant principles. The classification of sources of formation of a complex of ideas is developed, allowing to match the source of the idea with the prospects of the company’s development. To this end, the research proposes to involve a group of experts – specialists in a particular field. A thorough analysis of modern researches on the process of forming an entrepreneurial idea and making an adequate, informed decision on its development allowed to conclude that the process of deciding on the choice of type and direction or multitude of alternative directions of entrepreneurial activity requires analysis of the whole range of parameters that form the content of the entrepreneurial idea in combination with the options and strategy for achieving the results of this idea – as a general purpose (mission), as a sense of the company’s existence, and as a way of achieving intermediate goals. An approbation of the selection process was carried out on the example of a company producing medical equipment. As a result of the research, potential opportunities and ways of ensuring competitive advantages and priority directions of the company’s development were identified. Prospect for further research in this direction is the construction of an expert system for finding effective vectors and scenarios for the strategic development of the company in various conditions of external environment.
Impact of the Spread of Remote Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Quality of Labor Life of Scientific-Pedagogical Employees
Authors:   Kyiv National Economic University named after V. Hetman, Riabokon I. O.
Published: October 2021

The article is aimed at identifying the impact of remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of labor life of scientific-pedagogical employees. The article examines changes in the norms of working time for certain types of labor of teachers in both the mixed and remote modes compared to the norms of working time in the traditional (classroom) mode of teaching. A survey of scientific-pedagogical staff on the empirical dimension of the change in the time spent on the implementation of types of work in the pandemic period was carried out. The analysis of the study findings showed that the norms of working time for certain types of labor performed by scientific-pedagogical employees under the conditions of remote learning need to be increased taking into account the working peculiarities and conditions. Additional types of labor of scientific-pedagogical employees, which appeared as a result of the introduction of mixed form of training, are identified, these are associated mainly with the organization of various forms of remote learning. Based on the results of the research, the conclusions about the impact of the pandemic on the quality of labor life of scientific-pedagogical employees are formulated and the main ways to increase this quality are determined. The need for significantly new forms of labor organization in the conditions of a remote format of training is determined. New challenges that can lead to professional burnout and stress of scientific-pedagogical staff in the absence of timely correction of working time standards are outlined. It is substantiated that bringing the norms of working time in line with the new realities of the pandemic period through the rational use of working time will improve the working conditions of scientific-pedagogical employees, and, accordingly, the quality of their labor life.
Measurement of Economic Risk for a Non-Probabilistic Problem Formulation
Authors:   Kyiv National Economic University named after V. Hetman, Kotsyuba O. S.
Published: October 2021

The subject of the article is the methodical apparatus for quantitative assessment of the degree of economic risk for the situation of decision-making, under load of the nonstochastic (nonprobabilistic) uncertainty. The research implemented the task of further development of fuzzy-multiple risk measurement instrumentarium for the case of simultaneous nonstochastic uncertainty of assessments of the criterial economic indicator (criterion) and its norm. In accordance with the set goal and methodical approach to the interpretation of fuzzy assessments on the basis of an analogy between random and fuzzy values in the work a number of practically significant situations determined by the nature of the nonstochastic assessments of the criterial economic indicator and its norm were consistently considered, for each of these mathematical ratios were found to calculate the degree of risk. The proposed calculation formulas were tested on conventional examples. The results of the tests showed the capability of the developed computing apparatus. The research also focuses on the situation of risk measurement, when the assessment of the criterial economic indicator is modeled as a random variable, while its normative level is described by an assessment, either interval or fuzzy. As a perspective direction of further scientific research on the issues raised in the article, the formation of some generalized methodology for quantitative assessment of the degree of economic risk, which would allow to measure the risk for various situations of information uncertainty from a single theoretical position, is defined.
Priorities and Risks in the Implementation of Regional Smart-Oriented Economic Policy
Authors:   Institute of Regional Research named after M. I. Dolishniy of the NAS of Ukraine, Shults S. L. , Lutskiv O. M. ,   Institute of Regional Research named after M. I. Dolishniy of the NAS of Ukraine
Published: October 2021

The article discusses the economic essence of smart specialization. The European experience of applying the conception of «smart specialization» in strategic management is studied. The main components of the conception of «start-specialization» are considered. The directions of influence of start-specialization on increase of innovative activity and competitiveness of the territory are examined. The major problems, the solution of which start-specialization is aimed at, are identified. The emphasis is placed on the fact that smart specialization sets out not as much stimulating innovations, as activating the long-term structural changes in the region’s economy and be aimed at identifying strengths and developing competitive advantages of regions based on the extant structure of the regional economy. The need to introduce the conception of smart specialization in the sphere of implementation of regional economic policy in Ukraine is substantiated. The main goals, principles, priorities and risks of implementation of regional start-oriented policy are researched. It is noted that the implementation of the start-oriented regional policy, as a model of structural changes, will expand the opportunities for denfining and directly supporting priority types of economic activity for certain regions, which will increase their competitive advantages and contribute to the structural diversification of the economy on an innovative basis. Considerable attention is paid to the study of the main barriers to the implementation of smart specialization, the directions of their leveling are proposed. Attention is accentuated on the need to apply an integrated approach to the development of the regions of Ukraine, which provides for the mutual coordination of various policies implemented by the State and regions (economic, structural, industrial, innovative, foreign economic, etc.) and stakeholder activities in this process. An integrated approach to modern regional policy will ensure strategic planning of socio-economic development of region. Implementation of start-specialization priorities will facilitate the growth of the share of high-tech types of economic activity within the structure of the regional economy. The main instrument for the implementation of this direction of reforms should be regional strategies, the effectiveness of which will ensure the transition from prioritization to the implementation of specific projects.
MODELING OF THE GEOSPATIAL DATABASE FOR VIBRATION MONITORING IN SETTLEMENTS
Authors: Kozar V. , Lashko S. , Halchenko N. , Kazachenko L.
Published: October 2021

The processes of urbanization lead to increased levels of influence of physical factors and, in particular, vibration. Vibration can damage buildings and have an adverse effect on the human body. Therefore, the issues of improving vibration monitoring systems are relevant. The presence of a spatial component in the data on the vibration situation indicates the feasibility of using geographic information systems in this area.
The works of scientists in various fields of science are devoted to the study of the influence of vibrations on human beings and their environment. In existing studies the basic methodological principles for assessing the impact of vibration on people and environment were defined and methods for estimating vibration levels were developed. However, insufficient attention to the problems of vibration monitoring in the settlements is paid.
The modern settlement can be described as a complex system formed by many interconnected anthropogenic and natural elements of the territories. Some components of this system belong to the category of objects that need to be protected from vibration, others are sources of vibration, and some belong to both categories. Facilities that require measures to protect against vibration include residential and public buildings, residential areas, parks, squares, recreation areas. Sources of vibration in buildings include: transport, industrial enterprises and installations, engineering equipment of buildings, built-in enterprises of trade, consumer services, etc.

Geospatial data in the monitoring systems of the territory of the settlement is multisectoral and complex. Appropriate spatial data infrastructure is required for their efficient processing. Modeling of vibration monitoring system should be performed as part of the infrastructure of geospatial data at the local level. The basic set of spatial data for vibration monitoring included data on land plots, buildings, streets, utilities, railways, highways, hydrography, relief, soils, zoning. The «Address» class has been introduced to support address data. The set of thematic geospatial data includes information on the sources and areas of vibration pollution, control points and results of vibration levels, vibration protection devices, objects on which blasting or construction works are carried out. Based on the results of the analysis, a conceptual scheme of the geospatial database was developed. The proposed model can be the basis for designing the next stages of geographic information system for monitoring vibration.
Characterization of eco-friendly inhibitor by AAS, FT-IR and GC-MS for protection of AISI 304 in acidic environment
Authors:   Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of Nigeria, SULEIMAN Idawu Yakubu , KASIM Auwal ,   Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, SIRAJO Munir Zubairu ,   Petroleum Technology Development Fund, Abuja, Nigeria, MOHAMMED Abdullahi Tanko ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Waziri Umaru, Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria
Published: October 2021

Acacia senegalensis (AS) stems as green corrosion inhibitor for AISI 304 in 1 M hydrochloric (HCl) acid using both gravimetric and potentiodynamic polarization techniques was investigated. The stems were characterized by quantitative and qualitative analyses, Atomic absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Substrates before and after corrosion were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The inhibitor concentration, time and temperature were varied accordingly. Corrosion rate increased with increase in temperature and decreased with increases in both inhibitor concentrations and time. Inhibition efficiency of 98.30% occurred at the value of 8% v/v and phytochemical results revealed tannins, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids with their contents, AAS revealed 75% calcium, 16% magnesium, 3.35% manganese, FT-IR and GC–MS revealed some elements (N=C=S, C=N), chemical bonds/functional groups (NH2) etc which were responsible for the protection of AISI 304. Inhibition efficiency obtained suggested the effectiveness of the inhibitor. The green inhibitor acted as mixed-type. The coupons without green inhibitor were rough with severe pits, while surface with green inhibitor was protected. The weight loss, polarization and the characterization were in good agreement with each other.
Electrocatalytic activity survey of some cathode materials for the reduction of nitrites and nitrates in aqueous solution
Authors:   Laboratory of treatment and formatting of polymers, Faculty of engineering sciences, University of M’Hamed Bougara, Boumerdes 35000, Algeria, ANGAR Yassmina , DAOUDI Sofiane ,   Chemistry department, Faculty of Sciences, University of M’Hamed Bougara, Boumerdes 35000, Algeria, KEBBOUCHE-GANA Salima ,   Laboratory of VALCOR, Faculty of sciences, University of M’Hamed Bougara, Boumerdes 35000, Algeria, DJELALI Nacer-Eddine ,   Laboratory of treatment and formatting of polymers, Faculty of engineering sciences, University of M’Hamed Bougara, Boumerdes 35000, Algeria
Published: October 2021

The electrochemical techniques are the subject of increasing interest on the environmental remediation methods thanks to their efficiency and their selectivity. It was classified among the cleanest methods because it does not produce sludge and undesirable intermediate byproducts. For these reasons, we have chosen this technology for the reduction of nitrites and nitrates ions from aqueous solutions. The objective of our study is the comparison of several cathodes materials performances, in order to promote an optimal electro-reduction of these ions. Indeed, we have used the copper, graphite, stainless steel and zinc as cathodes; among them, we have selected the most efficient on which we have optimized the operational conditions. The results suggested that the copper cathode was the most efficient for the reduction of both tested ions compared to the other tested materials. Therefore, the optimization of operational conditions allows us to fixed them at: scan rate=50mV/s, initial effluent concentration=100 mg/L, pH=7 and potential range of the cyclic voltammetry scanning of [-1,+1]V/SCE for both ions. Under these optimal parameters, the reduction yield after 45min was important that can achieve 96.5% and 99% for nitrites and nitrates respectively.
Fatty acids profile (GC-FID) and analytical evaluation of Chemlali olive oil according to a combined laboratory scale ultrasounds and microwave extraction
Authors:   Laboratory of Organic Chemistry LR17ES08, Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, Chemistry Department, B.P « 1171 » 3038, Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia, KALLEL Kaouthar , RIGANE Ghayth ,   Laboratory of Organic Chemistry LR17ES08, Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, Chemistry Department, B.P « 1171 » 3038, Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia, GHAZGHAZI Hanene ,   Laboratory of Management and Valorization of Forest Resources, National Research Institute of Rural Engineering, Water and Forestry (INRGREF), Tunisia, BEN SALEM Ridha ,   Laboratory of Organic Chemistry LR17ES08, Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, Chemistry Department, B.P « 1171 » 3038, Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia
Published: October 2021

The aim of this work was to investigate the possibility of combination between micro-waves and ultra-sounds in order to determinate their impact on quality parameters, antioxidant capacity and phenolic compounds as well as fatty acid composition. The protocol consisted in microwave followed by a sonication treatment of olive paste for 5, 10 and 15 min. Results showed that the total phenolic content of olive oil increased positively with the increasing time of treatment ranging from 356 to ~ 639 mg GAE.kg−1 of olive oil. On the other hand, the fatty acid profiles of all studied oils were determined by GC-FID. Besides, olive oil obtained after 15 min of microwave olive past treatment followed by 10 or 15 min of ultrasound treatment showed that these oils had the highest value of Z-vaccenic (C18:1n-7) + Oleic (C18:1n-9) acids. These results encourage further developments for a combined continuous microwave and ultrasonic conditioning technology to fasten the olive oil extraction, to enhance total phenolic, chlorophyll as well as carotenoid contents and Fatty acid composition.
Exciplex formation in the phenoxathiin-thioxanthone system
Authors:   Faculty of Pharmacy, Titu Maiorescu University, Gh. Sincai Bd. 16, 040317 Bucharest, Roumania, TABLET Cristina , IONESCU Sorana ,   Department of Physical Chemistry, University of Bucharest, Bd. Regina Elisabeta 4–12, 030018 Bucharest, Roumania
Published: October 2021

Amines and other nitrogen-containing compounds, due to their electron donor character, can form excited state emissive complexes in systems that comprise an electron acceptor. Sulphur-containing heteroaromatic compounds such as phenoxathiin are also well-known for their electron donor character. Starting from these two considerations, we aimed at finding exciplexes in which the electron donor contains sulphur. We studied several D-A pairs in solvents of different polarity and found out that the system phenoxathiin-thioxanthone presents a new emission band at longer wavelength than the D and A bands in non-polar solvents, which is quenched in polar ones. In order to explain the exciplex formation, which is determined by an electron transfer process, the standard free enthalpy for the latter was calculated according to the Rehm-Weller equation. The equilibrium constants and the activation barrier for the exciplex formation were determined as well from steady-state emission data at different donor concentrations and at different temperatures, respectively.
Peak compression induced by large volume injection of hydrophobic alcohols in reversed-phase liquid chromatography
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Sos. Panduri, no 90, Bucharest 050663, Roumania, BACALUM Elena , GALAON Toma ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology-ECOIND, Drumul Podul Dambovitei Street, 71-73, Sector 6, Bucharest, Roumania, DAVID Victor ,   University of Bucharest, Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Analytical Chemistry, Sos. Panduri, no 90, Bucharest 050663, Roumania, MOLDOVEANU Serban C. ,   J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.,  950 Reynolds Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27105, USA
Published: October 2021

Injections of high volumes of samples containing hydrophobic diluents are possible in reversed-phase liquid chromatography, and in some cases an effect of peak compression can be observed. Three classes of organic compounds were studied as target compounds for peak compression: pharmaceuticals (pentoxifylline; salicylic acid; caffeine, ethylparaben); pollutants (simazine, atrazine), and natural compounds from tabacoo provenience (nicotine). Five aliphatic alcohols from butanol to octanol as hydrophobic solvents were used as sample diluent in the view of influencing the peak efficiency for the studied analytes. Among them, only pentanol, hexanol and heptanol were observed to produce peak compression resulting in a very high chromatographic efficiency for the studied compounds, while butanol and octanol allowed large volume injection with gradual decrease of the retention time of the dissolved analytes, but without their peak compression. Pentoxifylline, salicilic acid, simasine, are some examples of analytes that are characterized by sharp chromatographic peaks (high chromatographic efficiency, with over 10,000 plates/column), when high volumes of pentanol or hexanol (50 – 100 L) solutions are injected. Chromatogram monitoring was performed by UV-spectrometry detection or refractive index detection.
Compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids reveals dependency on grazing rather than detritivory in mangrove food webs
Authors: Harada Y , Lee SY , Connolly RM , Fry B
Published: October 2021

Colonisation of decaying leaves fallen from mangrove trees by bacteria and fungi is thought to play an important role at the base of food webs in most tropical estuaries. Compound-specific isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA-AA) has enabled the previously difficult methodological task of measuring plant, bacterial and fungal energy flows to food webs. Here, we assessed the biosynthetic origins of amino acids at the base of a mangrove food web using the CSIA-AA approach. Trophic positions of the 2 most common mangrove fauna—fiddler crabs and sesarmid crabs—estimated from nitrogen isotopes in phenylalanine and glutamic acid approached 2, suggesting that these species are herbivores rather than microbivores. Consistent with this finding, carbon isotope fingerprints in AAs did not support the importance of essential AAs derived from fungi and bacteria but rather suggested the importance of those originating from plants, especially microalgae. These results suggest that (1) microbial mineralization of decaying leaves supports the production of more easily assimilated microalgae and (2) bacteria and fungi, as intermediates, also routinely incorporate plant-derived AAs into their biomass.
Automated Monitoring of Cattle Heat Stress and Its Mitigation
Authors: Islam Md. Ashraful , Lomax Sabrina , Doughty Amanda , Islam Mohammed Rafiq , Jay Ollie , Thomson Peter , Clark Cameron
Published: October 2021

Climate change related global warming is likely to continue, despite all mitigation measures taken by humans, due to the lag effect of long-term anthropogenic activities. Warming of the atmosphere can impact worldwide cattle production directly by compromising health, welfare and productivity, and indirectly by reducing the quality and quantity of animal feed. Under warm thermal conditions, cattle adjust their physiological and behavioural responses as an integral part of thermoregulation to maintain internal body temperature within a safe range. However, a greater intensity and duration of heat exposure can exceed thermoregulatory capacity leading to an increase in internal body temperature beyond the normal limit that ultimately evokes different animal responses to heat. In cattle, response to heat stress can be visually observed as elevated respiration rate or panting, but continuous visual monitoring is labour intensive, time consuming and subjective. Therefore, different weather-based indices have been developed such as the temperature humidity index (THI) and heat load index (HLI) which are commonly used weather-based indices for monitoring cattle heat stress at commercial level. However, the thermal comfort level of cattle based on weather-based indices has limited use at a microclimatic and individual animal level. Varying sensor-based approaches have shown promise to shift the focus of heat stress management to the individual level. Monitoring individual animal response and mitigation strategies for isolated heat-susceptible cattle could save on heat management costs whilst improving animal welfare and productivity. Here we review the technologies that enable automatic, continuous, and real-time cattle heat stress monitoring and mitigation under commercial conditions. Future platforms for autonomous monitoring and mitigation of heat stress in cattle are likely to be based on minimally-invasive smart technologies either singly, or in an integrated system, enabling real-time solutions to animal responses under various production systems and environmental conditions.
Aberrant Functional Connectivity of the Posterior Cingulate Cortex in Type 2 Diabetes Without Cognitive Impairment and Microvascular Complications
Authors: Cheng Panpan , Song Shuyan , Li Yumin , Zhang Yao , Yi Jun , Xu Xiangyang , Zhou Hongmei , Zuo Zhentao
Published: October 2021

Objective

We aimed to investigate the alterations of brain functional connectivity (FC) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients without clinical evidence of cognitive impairment and microvascular complications (woCIMC-T2DM) using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) and to determine whether its value was correlated with clinical indicators.

Methods

A total of 27 T2DM and 26 healthy controls (HCs) were prospectively examined. Cognitive impairment was excluded using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scales, and microvascular complications were excluded by fundus photography, microalbuminuria, and other indicators. The correlation maps, derived from rs-fMRI with posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) as the seed, were compared between T2DM patients and HCs. Pearson’s correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between the FC of PCC and the clinical indicators.

Results

Compared with HC, woCIMC-T2DM patients showed significantly decreased FCs with PCC (PCC-FCs) in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), right superior frontal gyrus, right medial frontal gyrus, and right angular gyrus. Meanwhile, increased PCC-FCs was observed in the right superior temporal gyrus and calcarine fissure (CAL). The FC of PCC-ACC was negatively correlated with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and diabetes duration, and the FC of PCC-CAL was significantly positively correlated with HbA1c and diabetes duration.

Conclusion

The FC, especially of the PCC with cognitive and visual brain regions, was altered before clinically measurable cognitive impairment and microvascular complications occurred in T2DM patients. In addition, the FC of the PCC with cognitive and visual brain regions was correlated with HbA1c and diabetes duration. This indicates that clinicians should pay attention not only to blood glucose control but also to brain function changes before the occurrence of adverse complications, which is of great significance for the prevention of cognitive dysfunction and visual impairment.
Retinoic Acid Signaling Modulates Recipient Gut Barrier Integrity and Microbiota After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Mice
Authors: Pan Pan , Atkinson Samantha N. , Taylor Brian , Zhu Haojie , Zhou Dian , Flejsierowicz Philip , Wang Li-Shu , Morse Matthew , Liu Chen , Gunsolus Ian L. , Chen Xiao
Published: October 2021

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). An impaired intestinal epithelial barrier is an important component of GVHD pathogenesis. However, contributing host factors that modulate mucosal barrier integrity during GVHD are poorly defined. We hypothesized that vitamin A and retinoic acid (RA) exert positive impacts on maintaining intestinal barrier function after HSCT, thus preventing or dampening GVHD severity. Unexpectedly, we found that exogenous RA increased intestinal permeability of recipient mice after allogeneic HSCT. Serum bacterial endotoxin levels were significantly higher in GVHD mice fed a vitamin A-high (VAH) diet compared to those fed a vitamin A-normal (VAN) diet, indicating a more compromised intestinal barrier function. Furthermore, VAH mice showed more severe lung GVHD with increased donor T cell infiltration in this tissue and died significantly faster than VAN recipients. 16S rRNA sequencing of fecal samples revealed significant differences in the diversity and composition of gut microbiota between VAN and VAH transplant recipients. Collectively, we show that retinoic acid signaling may negatively impact intestinal barrier function during GVHD. Mild vitamin A supplementation is associated with increased lung GVHD and more profound gut dysbiosis. Micronutrients such as vitamin A could modulate complications of allogeneic HSCT, which may be mediated by shaping gut microbiota.
Identification and Validation of IFI44 as Key Biomarker in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Shen Lingling , Lan Lan , Zhu Tingting , Chen Hongjun , Gu Haifeng , Wang Cuili , Chen Ying , Wang Minmin , Tu Haiyan , Enghard Philipp , Jiang Hong , Chen Jianghua
Published: October 2021

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a common and severe organ manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and is a major cause of SLE related deaths. Early diagnosis is essential to improve the prognosis of patients with LN. To screen the potential biomarkers associated with LN, we downloaded the gene expression profile of GSE99967 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to construct a gene co-expression network and identify gene modules associated with LN. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis was also applied to explore the biological function of genes and identify the key module. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and Maximal Clique Centrality (MCC) values were calculated to screen hub genes. Furthermore, we selected promising biomarkers for real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) validation in independent cohorts. Our results indicated that five hub genes, including IFI44, IFIT3, HERC5, RSAD2, and DDX60 play vital roles in the pathogenesis of LN. Importantly, IFI44 may considered as a key biomarker in LN for its diagnostic capabilities, which is also a promising therapeutic target in the future.
Isolation and Evaluation of Rhizosphere Actinomycetes With Potential Application for Biocontrolling Fusarium Wilt of Banana Caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhang Huixi , Huang Yating , Peng Jun , Xie Jianghui , Wang Wei
Published: October 2021

Fusarium wilt of banana caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense tropical race 4 (TR4) is globally one of the most destructive soil-borne fungal diseases. Biological control using environmental microorganisms is considered as an alternative and sustainable strategy. Actinomycetes have the potential to explore biocontrol agents due to their production of diverse metabolites. The isolation and identification of high-efficiency and broad-spectrum antagonistic actinomycetes are the key for the application of biocontrol agents. In the present study, 60 actinomycetes were obtained from the rhizosphere soil of Machilus pingii in the primitive ecological natural reserve of Hainan province, China. Seventeen isolates and their extracts exhibited significant antifungal activity against F. oxysporum TR4. Particularly, strain BITDG-11 with the strongest inhibition ability had a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. The assay of its physiological and biochemical profiles showed that strain BITDG-11 had the ability to produce IAA and siderophores and had a positive response to gelatin liquefaction and nitrate reduction. Enzyme activities of chitinase, β-1,3-glucanase, lipase, and urease were also detected. Average nucleotide identity calculated by comparison with the standard strain genome of Streptomyces albospinus JCM3399 was 86.55% below the novel species threshold, suggesting that the strain could be a novel species. In addition, Streptomyces BITDG-11 obviously reduced the disease index of banana plantlets and promoted plant growth at 45 days post inoculation. The higher and lasting expression levels of defense genes and activities of antioxidant enzymes were induced in the roots of banana. Genome sequencing revealed that the Streptomyces BITDG-11 chromosome contained large numbers of conserved biosynthesis gene clusters encoding terpenes, non-ribosomal peptides, polyketides, siderophores, and ectoines. Fifteen bioactive secondary metabolites were further identified from Streptomyces BITDG-11 extract by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Dibutyl phthalate demonstrating a strong antifungal activity was the major compound with the highest peak area. Hence, Streptomyces sp. BITDG-11 has a great potential to become an essential constituent of modern agricultural practice as biofertilizers and biocontrol agents.
Augmented Liver Uptake of the Membrane Voltage Sensor Tetraphenylphosphonium Distinguishes Early Fibrosis in a Mouse Model
Authors: Pandita Himanshi , Mezey Esteban , Ganapathy-Kanniappan Shanmugasundaram
Published: October 2021

Mitochondrial (mito-) oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) is a critical determinant of cellular membrane potential/voltage. Dysregulation of OxPhos is a biochemical signature of advanced liver fibrosis. However, less is known about the net voltage of the liver in fibrosis. In this study, using the radiolabeled [3H] voltage sensor, tetraphenylphosphonium (TPP), which depends on membrane potential for cellular uptake/accumulation, we determined the net voltage of the liver in a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis. We demonstrated that the liver uptake of3H-TPP significantly increased at 4 weeks of CCl4-administration (6.07 ± 0.69% ID/g,p< 0.05) compared with 6 weeks (4.85 ± 1.47% ID/g) and the control (3.50 ± 0.22% ID/g). Analysis of the fibrosis, collagen synthesis, and deposition showed that the increased3H-TPP uptake at 4 weeks corresponds to early fibrosis (F1), according to the METAVIR scoring system. Biodistribution data revealed that the3H-TPP accumulation is significant in the fibrogenic liver but not in other tissues. Mechanistically, the augmentation of the liver uptake of3H-TPP in early fibrosis concurred with the upregulation of mito-electron transport chain enzymes, a concomitant increase in mito-oxygen consumption, and the activation of the AMPK-signaling pathway. Collectively, our results indicate that mito-metabolic response to hepatic insult may underlie the net increase in the voltage of the liver in early fibrosis.