bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chinese cinematography in Russia in the context of “One Belt, One Road” initiative
Authors: Zhang Liwei
Published: May 2019

In this study we consider Chinese cinema in Russia distribution condition. It is proved that a serious stimulus for the development of cinematography in the People's Republic of China was a rational combination of commercial tools in the production of films with the solution of serious image problems for China, that modern Chinese cinematography has acquired another extremely important load – it has become an important media instrument of “soft power” for the dissemination abroad of information about Chinese culture, history and politics, as well as for the formation of a positive image of China, creating a trust relationship to Chinese civilization and nation. For Russia, as a country located along the “One Belt, One Road”, cooperation with China is especially valuable. The study substantiates that the interaction of the two countries in the field of cinematography is one of the main components of maintaining good – neighborly relations. It has been established during the conducted study that Chinese films actively participate in the international film festival in Russia, winning various awards, since February 1935, when at the First Moscow International Film Festival (or the Soviet Film Festival in Moscow) the social drama “Song of the Fishermen” directed by Cai Chusheng received an incentive prize of the festival jury. It was the first international prize in the history of Chinese cinema.
Saint Theophan (Govorov) – the Archpastor of Tambov Land: “To inscribe the image of Christian teaching”
Authors: Theodosius (Vasnev) Metropolitan of Tambov and Rasskazovo
Published: May 2019

“Those who have a sincere love of truth, that it shall lead forth from the darkness of delusion and bring to the light of truth” (Saint Theophan the Recluse). The study of the heritage of the Archpastor of the Tambov Land – Saint of Tambov and Shatsk Theophan (Govorov) – still remains an urgent scientific task, as the knowledge of his creative works reveals the spiritual content of mankind. In this study we present the hagiography description of Saint Theophan during his stay in the Tambov Land, where the general civilizational principles are concretized by the data of the governorate. Saint Theophan the Recluse during his allegiance in the Tambov eparchy showed kind qualities of his soul, first of all, respectful attitude to people. He sincerely loved the truth, with all his soul was loyal to what he believed was true, without any self-interest. The Saint never ignored the petitions of the Tambov clergy and the flock, as well as all kinds of reports and protocols. With compassion and warmth he treated those who lost their breadwinner. At the same time, he showed the necessary firmness to the priests and clergymen who were negligent and violated the canonical rules and the church charter. Saint Theophan, the Archpastor of the Tambov Land, was shown to his flock as an example of a zealous doer in the field of the church, manifesting his versatile talents and, above all, upbringing and education.
Comments: The Rise of LNG
Authors: Donnelly John
Published: May 2019

Editor's column

Natural gas, often hailed as the bridge to an energy future that will include greater demand for alternative energy supplies, may be poised to overtake oil as the globe’s primary fuel source in the next decade.

While the 20th century was the Age of Oil, the 21st century will be a combination of both old and new energy sources, Shell executive Maarten Wetselaar said at the recent CERA energy conference in Houston. Oil must now share the stage with gas and a variety of fuels, said Wetselaar, who is the company’s integrated gas and new energies director.

The use of coal is projected to decrease in several developing countries trying to reduce carbon emissions, paving the way for increased use of gas and renewable energy for electricity. The European Union is threatening to fine its member nations that do not implement a carbon emissions strategy, and China is in the third year of a 5-year plan designed to limit fossil fuel consumption. Many other Asian countries are following suit.

BP’s most recent Statistical Review of World Energy stated that in 2018 gas accounted for the largest gain in world energy consumption, followed by renewables and then oil. These developments, along with new supplies of gas produced by the US shale sector, is raising the status of gas from a regional fuel to a global commodity. Gas trade grew 6% last year, according to BP, with LNG trade surpassing traditional pipeline transactions. 

Historically, most gas has been transported by pipeline. But vast new sources of gas, from offshore Australia and US shale, have led to the building of LNG ports for export and the creation of new trade routes, principally to Asia. Four new liquefaction plants are being built along the Gulf Coast in the US, which only exported its first LNG cargo in 2016. In addition, Qatar plans to increase LNG output by more than 40% over the next 5 years, building four new LNG trains, according to consultancy DNV-GL. Global demand for LNG rose by 27 million tonnes last year to 319 million tonnes, according to Shell’s LNG Outlook. Demand is forecast to reach 384 million tonnes by 2020.

But LNG buyers and sellers are still struggling with pricing. Gas has generally been sold through long-term contracts because of the absence of a spot trade. LNG has often been sold on oil-indices contracts, but the wide swings in oil prices don’t reflect LNG economics. Buyers would like more transparency to reflect regional supply/demand dynamics. A proposed gas cartel formed by some of the world’s largest gas producers—kind of a gas OPEC—has never gotten off the ground. An oil pricing service has introduced the Japan Korean Marker as a possibility, to be used for pricing Asian spot cargoes. And Cheniere and CME Group plan to develop a Henry Hub-indexed futures contract with physical delivery to the US Gulf Coast. The use of any nonoil-indexed mechanism will only increase the stature of LNG as a viable energy commodity.
Guest Editorial: Countering Security Issues in the Digital World
Authors: Dickinson Ben , Chiock Mario
Published: May 2019

Guest editorial

The adoption of digital technologies in the oil and gas industry is generating exciting new opportunities to improve performance, profitability, and sustainability, but brings new safety and security challenges across all operations.

According to a 2017 survey by the Ponemon Institute, cyber attacks are on the rise. Successful breaches per company each year have risen more than 27%, from an average of 102 to 130. The energy and utilities industry, including oil and gas, suffered average annualized losses from cyber crime of $17.2 million per sampled organization, just behind the financial services sector at $18.2 million.

In June 2017, the NotPetya computer virus affected many companies around the world, including the Russian oil and gas giant, Rosneft. In the same year, another report stated that almost three-quarters of US oil and gas companies had a cyber incident, yet only a handful cited cyber risk as a major concern in their annual reports.

Cyber Concerns

As the global oil and gas industry grasps the benefits that digitalization, automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence can bring to production and profitability, its relatively immature cyber systems are making it an attractive soft target for hackers.

The traditional focus of cyber security has been on IT, such as the office IT infrastructure. Now, there is an increasing trend for networks on production sites to be connected to wider corporate networks, to allow remote monitoring and control. This increases vulnerability. Managing operational technology, such as control and automation systems, requires both oil and gas operational domain competence, as well as proficiency in general information security.

The level of threat depends on the level of communications. Cybersecurity can be simplest when data is moving in just one direction, for instance, from the production system into the corporate network. However, if using a remote or centralized control room, the need for protection becomes more pertinent and problematic, as control rooms must be able to alter critical offshore systems. The complexity and challenge for fail-safe security deepens if vendors are able to access and perhaps control equipment on the plant via corporate systems.

As each rig operation involves a significant number of suppliers and contractors, all deploying safety critical systems, it is vital that the industry introduces controls and security barriers to eliminate any weaknesses.

Without the understanding and knowledge of how to implement and integrate such systems securely, unnecessary risk and expense can be added to a project. Breaches can lead to lost production; raised health, safety, and environmental risk; costly damages claims; breach of insurance conditions; negative reputational impacts; and loss of licence to operate. Therefore, cybersecurity needs to be a consideration throughout the lifecycle of any project, especially across digital transition activity.
Malaysia’s Petronas is Looking Near and Far for Gas and Oil
Authors: Zborowski Matt
Published: May 2019

Petronas is looking within its home country, around Southeast Asia, and to the Americas in an effort to maintain its forecast average yearly production of 1.7 million BOE/D over the next 5 years. It is also exploring new partnerships with other global operators that offer regional and technical expertise. 

The integrated company, whose upstream portfolio consists primarily of natural gas, wants to both accelerate its exploitation of the hydrocarbon and add more oil to the mix.  

Back home, Petronas—the world’s third-largest LNG seller—continues to target domestic gas to leverage its control of the gas value chain all the way to its petrochemical and LNG liquefaction plants. The company’s LNG facilities include its 30-million tonnes/annum (mtpa) complex in Sarawak, and the world’s first floating LNG facility, the 1.2-mtpa PFLNG Satu. A second floating LNG facility is expected to be ready for sail away by 2020.

Petronas is taking advantage of a growing Southeast Asia gas market, counting Japan, Korea, Taiwan, “and increasingly China” as major LNG customers, said Adif Zulkifli, Petronas executive vice president and chief executive officer of gas and new energy, on the sidelines of a recent SPE forum in Kuala Lumpur.

Adif said one of Petronas’ primary goals is to turn Malaysia’s large inventory of contingent resources into proved reserves. The company has worked “to intensify exploration activities in Malaysia,” and it is seeking to bring more partners into the fold: The country recently revised terms in its deepwater production-sharing contracts to attract more international participation. “We are quite progressive in terms of attracting investment, and that has brought in some new plays into the space,” he said.

Adif believes “there is much potential within the deep waters of Sabah that is still left untapped and remains very attractive to investors.” Last year, the Total-operated Tepat-1 well in deepwater Sabah tested a frontier Miocene carbonate buildup “and is believed to have found oil and gas, though commerciality is uncertain and the results are being kept very tight,” according to a report from research consultancy Westwood Global Energy. “Tepat demonstrates that explorers are still testing new plays in the region and that a breakthrough could yet happen.”

Elsewhere in Southeast Asia, said Adif, the company hopes to soon monetize its operated deepwater Kelidang cluster project off Brunei, continue exploratory work on the recent onshore Sakakemang discovery in Indonesia, and improve recovery from its Yetagun block off Myanmar. Petronas farmed in to the Sakakemang block in January, a month before operator Repsol announced the discovery, which comes with a preliminary estimate of 2 Tcf in recoverable resources. Petronas also intends to explore the deepwater Moat-tama Basin off Myanmar and frontier areas off East Indonesia, he added.
Integrated analysis of full-length transcriptome and secondary metabolism reveals novel regulation in Paulownia fortunei infected with phytoplasma
Authors: Zhao Xiaogai , Zhai Xiaoqiao , Wang Zhe , Cao Yabing , Zhao Zhenli , Cao Xibing , Fan Guoqiang
Published: May 2019

Background: Paulownia witches' broom (PaWB) is a devastating disease caused by phytoplasma, which can lead to considerable economic losses. Previous studies have shown that 60 mg•L-1 methyl methane sulfonate (MMS) can restore infected Paulownia seedlings to healthy one. To improve the understanding of PaWB, we used single molecule real time (SMRT) sequencing, which can provide long sequences that can be effectively used to identify gene alternative splicing, obtain novel genes, improve gene annotations and comprehensive analysis of the metabolome.
Results: Here, the first integrated analysis SMRT sequencing, the Illumina platforms, and high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) to analyze changes in transcripts and metabolites in Paulownia fortunei. A total of 140,528 non redundant transcripts were identified, which supported 6,209 of novel gene loci that can enrich 70,223 annotation information of Paulownia fortunei （P. fortunei）genome. A total of 5,606 transcripts, 46 lncRNAs, 83 fusion transcripts, 597 transcription factors, and 57 metabolites were related indirectly or directly to PaWB. Subsequent analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome found trans-cinnamate 4-monooxygenase, caffeoyl-CoA-O methyltransferase, ferulic acid and peroxidase were up-regulated in Paulownia fortunei infected with phytoplasma. They were involved in flavonoid, phenylpropane and salicylic acid metabolism, which might be related to Paulownia-phytoplasma interaction.
Conclusions: Our results will enrich the understanding of molecular mechanisms of PaWB. This study provides a foundation for better understanding the changes in gene expression, metabolites, and morphology of Paulownia fortunei with PaWB.
Evaluating Sensitivities of Economic Factors through Coupled Economics‐ALMANAC Model System
Authors: Starr Jon , Zheng Haochi , Zhang Jianglong , Reid Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

A linked Economics land‐use model with the ALMANAC model has been constructed for crop simulation.

The linked crop and economics modeling system can be used for estimating dynamic crop acreages.

The impacts of policy and market changes on crop simulations can be studied with the linked system.

Using crop models to simulate crop growth and productivity at a regional scale is a complex process designed to represent the observed impact of individual farmer decision‐making on the agricultural landscape. Typically, during agricultural simulation efforts, the planting acreages have largely been based on a set of predetermined, static scenarios. In this study, we developed a system to dynamically enhance the Agricultural Land Management Alternative with Numerical Assessment Criteria (ALMANAC) crop simulation model through a two‐way linkage with an economics land‐use model. This coupled model approach integrated farmers’ land‐use choices based on relative economic returns and produced dynamic land‐use probabilities for ALMANAC simulations through a feedback loop. The coupled model approach was intercompared with static crop modeling through a historic acreage approach, and comparable accuracies were found from both modeling efforts for the 2014 growing season. Furthermore, as a proof‐of‐concept effort, the method was applied to evaluate the impact of two scenarios on crop simulations: major crops (maize, soybean, and wheat) intensification through price increases (e.g., market change) and incentivized grassland conservation (e.g., policy change). The results of this sensitivity study suggest that the coupled system has the capability to integrate economic factors into traditional crop simulation, allowing for insight into the impacts of changes in markets and policies on agricultural landscapes and crop yields.
Relating Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in Biosolids to Home Exposure
Authors: Brown Sally , Kennedy Laura , Cullington Mark , Mihle Ashley , Lono‐Batura Maile
Published: May 2019

Municipal biosolids and composts are used on agricultural soils and in urban areas. Greater visibility has resulted in increased concerns about the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in these materials. Scientific studies have concluded minimal potential for human health risk. Effective communication tools can express these results to the general public. Exposure assessment modeling was used to develop non‐scientific risk communication for select PPCPs in biosolids. The equivalent of one therapeutic dose or 1 d home exposure was used. The exposure pathways included direct ingestion of biosolids, dermal absorption, drinking runoff from biosolids, and eating crops grown in biosolids. Values for biosolids‐PPCP concentrations were derived from peer‐reviewed literature and a voluntary sampling. In the highest exposure case, it would take 1.5 d for a child playing in biosolids compost to reach an equivalent to 1 d of home exposure to bisphenol A (BPA). However, concentrations of BPA were below detection (500 µg kg−1) in three of four biosolids composts sampled. For all other compounds modeled, it would take years (triclosan) to millennia (acetaminophen, fluoxetine, ibuprofen, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, erythromycin, ofloxacin, sulfamethoxazole) of exposure to biosolids to reach the equivalent of one therapeutic dose or a 1 d home exposure.
Numerical Modeling of Nitrate in a Flood‐Irrigated Pecan Orchard
Authors: Mokari Esmaiil , Shukla Manoj K. , Šimůnek Jirka , Fernandez Jorge L.
Published: May 2019

Core Ideas

Pecan is a vitally important specialty crop in the southwestern United States.

No study is available on modeling temporal variability of NO3–N transport in pecan orchards.

Hydrus‐1D predicted well water and NO3–N variability by depth for a heavy textured soil.

NO3–N balance identified denitrification contributing to major loss.

Nitrogen management in pecan orchards should take into account on and off years to decrease leaching.

Pecan [(Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch] is an important specialty crop in New Mexico. This research quantifies soil water and soil nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3–N) (mg L−1 of soil) variations with depth, root NO3–N (kg ha−1) uptake, and NO3–N (kg ha−1) balance for the 100‐cm soil profile during two growing seasons in a flood‐irrigated pecan orchard. Nitrate‐nitrogen was determined six times during the growing seasons of 2015 and 2016. The HYDRUS‐1D model was used to optimize the water flow parameters using measured volumetric soil water content (θ). Model calibration and validation for NO3–N included the optimization of reaction parameters for nitrification and denitrification of each soil layer. The results showed that the model simulated θ well (0.44 ≤ d [index of agreement] ≤ 0.73) at different depths during both calibration (2009) and validation (2010) periods. Generally, HYDRUS‐1D simulated soil profile NO3–N concentrations that were correlated with measurements at all depths during both years. Total root NO3–N uptake showed a significant increase of 72% in 2016 compared with 2015. The NO3–N balance showed that ∼40% of applied NO3–N per year was denitrified, which was the main contributor to the NO3–N loss from the soil profile during both years. Nitrate‐nitrogen leaching below the soil profile was 32 and 26% of applied NO3–N in 2015 and 2016, respectively. The fertigation rate was much higher than the plant demand during both years, and it should be decreased to reduce NO3–N losses.
Fatigue in Post-Polio Syndrome
Authors: Motta Monalisa Pereira , Quadros Abrahão Augusto Juveniano , Ferreira Letícia Simões , Oliveira Acary Souza Bulle
Published: May 2019

Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS) is characterized by the appearance of new muscular symptoms or worsening of previous residual symptoms, several years after the acute polio. The most common symptoms include a trial of fatigue, deterioration in muscle strength and pain. Fatigue is one of the most frequent complaints of PPS and the majority of patients identify fatigue as their most troubling symptom. The aetiology of the symptom arouses great interest, mainly due to its multifactorial character, and can be divided into two components: peripheral (muscular) fatigue and central (general) or simultaneously-occurring fatigue. Considering the importance of the symptom and the limitations that can cause in PPS patients, it is important to consider a series of variables, so that it can be better understood, thus providing a more effective and specific treatment.
Using AquaCrop Model to simulate irrigation water use efficiency of potato crop under semi-arid conditions of Central Tunisia
Authors: Ghazouani Hiba , Latrech Basma , Douh Boutheina M. , Amani Cherni , Amel Mguidich Belhaj , Issam Ghazouani , Boujelben Abdelhamid
Published: May 2019

In Tunisia, water scarcity forces producers to face stress conditions. In this study, AquaCrop was used to reproduce the dynamic of water contents, vegetative growth, yield production and water use efficiency under a non-stressed and water stressed treatments. Calibration procedure aimed to use in maximum default parameters of AquaCrop. Since, the paper presented only the parameters that have to be adjusted to obtain similar results of field measurements. Root mean squared error, RMSE, values were always lower than 0.04 cm3.cm-3 for water contents lower than 0.06 for vegetation cover estimation. Moreover, results from Nasch Coefficient, E, were almost equal to one. RMSE and E justified that the model was well assessed to predict the soil water contents and vegetation development under the study area. However, the model presented a greater performance in the case of full irrigation strategy. When evaluating different values of water productivity, it was showed that a WP of 32 g.m-2 produced the lowest estimation error. Regarding yield productions, statistical indictors, computed for a water productivity value of 32 g.m-2 show in general RMSE values lower than 0.4 t/ha. In addition, E was closer to one for the non stressed treatment, T1. For irrigation water use efficiency, it was depicted that the model underestimated field IWUE. Moreover, the discrepancy between simulated and estimated irrigation water use efficiency rose for treatment T2, implying that the model calibration should be improved, especially for stressed conditions. The model, after being calibrated, could be used for simulating the response of the crop to different irrigation management aiming to optimize water use efficiency.
Prevalence of dirofilariasis in cats in the Kars province, Turkey
Authors: ERKILIÇ EKIN EMRE , MOR NERIMAN , KIRMIZIGÜL ALI HAYDAR
Published: May 2019

Dirofilariasis is a vector-borne disease which is zoonotic. The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of dirofilariasis in indoor cats with outdoor access in the centre and districts of the Kars province. Blood samples were collected from a total of 150 cats, including 71 males and 79 females. The localities selected for sampling were the centre of the Kars province (n=78), and the districts Sarıkamış (n=30), Arpaçay (n=24) and Selim (n=18). Dirofilariasis seropositivity was 29.5% in the centre of the Kars province, 16.7% in Sarıkamış, 8.3% in Arpaçay and 5.6% in Selim. The seropositivity rate of the male cats (18.3%–13/71) was lower than that of the females (22.8%–18/79). The assessment of seropositivity for the different age groups showed that seropositivity was 22% in cats aged 1–2 years, 21.4% in cats aged 3–4 years, and 18.2% in cats aged 5 years and older. Statistical analyses demonstrated that the differences observed for sex and age were insignificant (P>0.05). The overall seropositivity rate was found to be 20.7%. This seroprevalence determined for dirofilariasis in cats in the Kars region suggests that prophylactic measures need to be taken against the disease in this area.
Antybiotykooporność izolowanych z żywności bakterii z rodziny Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: SZEWCZYK MAREK , CZUBA ZENON , WICZKOWSKI ANDRZEJ , HAJDROWSKA BOGUMIŁA
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to analyse the susceptibility of Enterobacteriaceae strains isolated from food to antibiotics used in human therapy. The tests were conducted on 433 samples of raw and processed meat intended for sale. A total of 114 strains belonging to Enterobacteriaceae were isolated by the classical bacteriological technique. Escherichia, Klebsiella, Serratia, Enterobacter, Proteus, Hafnia, Citrobacter, Salmonella and Shigella were cultured from samples of beef, pork, poultry and ready-made meat products. Antibiotic susceptibility was tested by the mean of E-tests for the following antibiotics: piperacillin, piperacillin with tazobactam, cefotaxime, cefuroxime, imipenem, ceftazidime, gentamycin, tobramycin, ciprofloxacin and trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole. Over 37% of the strains isolated were resistant to some of these antibiotics, and 34% showed resistance to at least 2 of them. Resistance was observed most frequently to cephalosporins, penicillins and trimethoprim with sulfamethoxazole, which may suggest that these antibiotics are used excessively in veterinary medicine.
Wild boar as the unlikely source of Aujeszky’s Disease virus for swine
Authors: PEJSAK ZYGMUNT , TRUSZCZYŃSKI MARIAN
Published: May 2019

In the introduction of this paper the virological definition of the SuHV-1, the etiological agent of Aujeszky’s Disease (AD) of swine, is presented. The importance of ADas an OIE listed disease is mentioned. The gE- deleted marker vaccine in combination with differentiating infected from vaccinated swine ELISA kit is characterized. It is worth to remember that Poland in 2019 will inform the Veterinary Commission of the EU about the freedom of AD in domestic pigs. The seroprevalence of AD in wild boar is variable, from very high occurrence in Mediterranean countries to low level or not existence in Northern Europe. According to several cited authors two subtypes of ADV are existing and characterised – subtype I in wild boar, not being pathogenic for wild boar, existing also in domestic swine, and subtype II occurring in swine and being for domestic swine very pathogenic. Other genetic data connected with pathogenicity of Aujeszky’s disease virus variants are also mentioned.
Activities of blood superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and serum vitamin E level in dogs with age-related cataract
Authors: MADANY JACEK , ABRAMOWICZ BEATA , MILCZAK ANDRZEJ , WINIARCZYK DAGMARA , WRZEŚNIEWSKA KAROLINA
Published: May 2019

Purpose: Oxidative mechanisms play a major role in the etiology and pathogenesis of cataract, especially age-related cataract (ARC). Our study aimed to investigate the serum vitamin E level and the activities of systemic antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) in the blood of dogs with age-related cataract but without any general diseases. Material and methods: The population examined consisted of 40 dogs of various breeds and both sexes, aged 10-16 years, diagnosed with age-related cataract. Cataract was diagnosed by complete ocular examination. Blood was collected during clinical examination from the external jugular vein in dogs weighing less than 20 kg or from the small saphenous vein in dogs weighing over 20 kg. The control group consisted of 10 healthy dogs of different breeds and sexes, aged 8-12 years, without cataract. SOD and GPX were measured by a colorimetric reagent kit Randox SOD and Randox GPX. The level of vitamin E was determined using a Perkin-Elmer LS 30 luminescent spectrometer. This apparatus determines the vitamin E level by the fluorometric method of Hansen and Warwick . Results: The results showed a significantly lower activity of SOD as well as a lower activity of GPX and a lower level of the vitamin E in dogs with ARC compared to healthy dogs. Conclusions: The results obtained indicate a weakening of the general antioxidant defence system in the course of ARC in dogs. These results suggest that such conditions may have effect on the development of canine age-related cataract and are consistent with the free radical theory of age-related cataract development.
Usıng bacterıophages ın the extractıon of Brucella DNA from mılk and culture samples and ıts evaluatıon by multıplex PCR
Authors: KARAGUL MUSTAFA SENCER
Published: May 2019

Molecular methods have been progressing at a noticeably rapid rate recently. Obtaining the DNA required for most of these methods is also trying to catch up with this progress. Although many different kits and processes are utilized for DNA extraction, bacterial isolation is still accepted as a gold standard in the diagnosis of brucellosis. This study aims to create a novel way that can be used as an extraction method including bacteriophages. Bacteriophages that are specific to Brucella (B.) genus and species are used commonly in conventional identification and biotyping. However, using bacteriophages in the extraction of the DNA of the target bacteria has not been tried so far. In this study, DNA was extracted from Brucella culture and milk samples through the use of Izat Nagar (Iz) phage with 102–104 routine test dilution. These milk samples were artificially infected by Brucella suis bacteria with the amounts changing between 3.68×109 and 0.44×107 cfu/ml. Positive results were obtained from multiplex PCR by observing the B. suis profile with 7 bands. The methodology of the study consisted of 4 main phases; namely, first centrifugation, phage addition, incubation and the second centrifugation. When the effects of phages on viable bacteria are considered, it might be said that a method, which could be named ‘Phage-Exsen’, and which supports the gold standard, has been suggested. This method combines the advantages of the conventional method and molecular ones and forms a basis for prospective studies. Moreover, it illustrates the use of bacteriophages for DNA extraction in an unusual way, which might form a new perspective.
Influence of selected genes on neogenesis at the molecular level
Authors: MADEJ JANUSZ A.
Published: May 2019

The paper describes the influence of selected genes on neogenesis, including their expression, RNA transformation, translation and transcription. The role of adhesive molecules, extracellular matrix, cytoskeleton and signal conduction in neoplastic induction is described. External stimuli, internal factors and disturbances in DNA repair can cause cell mutations (fig. 1). An accumulation of various factors in different gene classes, together with their amplification, leads to tumour formation. Neoplastic cells undergo a dominant mutation, thereby gaining a new function, or cumulate recessive mutations which cause the loss of a function. This is particularly true in genetic anomalies associated with the cadherin system, e.g. the loss of E-cadherin expression in mammary cancer. The loss of E-cadherin or catenin expression causes the loss of cell connections, which facilitates metastasizing. Cells in metastases often show genetic disorders, a more malignant phenotype and increased drug resistance, which worsens clinical prognosis. The search for new anti-neoplastic drugs for humans is based on molecular studies and mice experimental models. The animals in these models show a phenotype corresponding with specific human diseases, e.g. Pax gene mutation in sarcomas and carcinomas, antisense DNA therapy (in Burkitt’s lymphoma or chronic leukaemia) or induction of retroviral vectors (thymidine kinase gene) in herpes virus (HS-th) in proliferating cells in multiform glioblastoma.
Thrombocyte indices and plateletcrit in dogs with primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia
Authors: ÇOLAKOĞLU EKREM ÇAĞATAY , HAYDARDEDEOĞLU ALI EVREN
Published: May 2019

Primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is one of the most common autoimmune disorders in dogs. Platelet indices in dogs with IMHA have not been commonly used in daily clinical practice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate trombocyte indices, including platelet count (PLT), mean platelet volume (MPW), platelet size deviation width (PDW), and plateletcrit (PCT) in dogs with primary IMHA and to compare them with the corresponding values in a control series of healthy dogs. This study was performed on 21 dogs diagnosed with primary IMHA and 11 healthy dogs. The inclusion criteria were the presence of a positive Coombs’ test, true agglutination, anemia with HCT <35 %, hyperbilirubinemia, bilirubinuria, hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria, and spherocytosis. MPV and PDW were significantly higher in the dogs with IMHA compared to the reference population. No significant differences were found in PLT and PCT between the groups. The use of MPV and PDW values in evaluating the bone marrow response would be helpful in dogs with primary IMHA.
Classical and Quantum Optics and Their Influences on Science and Society
Authors: Ferreira Cristino Jose dos Santos , Vaz Gabriela Rodrigues , Valverde Clodoaldo , Baseia Basílio
Published: May 2019

In this work we present a brief history of Optics, begun several centuries BC in its evolution characterized as Classical Optics; later on, this theory became also characterized as Quantum Optics. The first of these two theories was completed in the great work of J. C. Maxwell while the second actually started in 1977 with the discovery of the first quantum effect in Optics, having in Roy Glauber one of its greatest representatives. Here, a quick walk along these two theories was made, including the various technological applications of both in science and society
As Inovações Tecnológicas Podem Mudar a Natureza da Crise Ambiental?
Authors: Pinheiro do Nascimento Elimar , Alvim Lage Cíntia
Published: May 2019

Todas as sociedades vivenciam, em seu imaginário, um grande medo, que muda com o tempo. Em meados do século passado o grande medo era a guerra atômica. Atualmente, é a crise ambiental. O mundo encontra-se na iminência de mudar seu grande medo, graças a velocidade das inovações tecnológicas, com máquinas inteligentes, que modificam nossa forma de produzir, consumir e viver. Aqui se desenha a seguinte hipótese: se as previsões quanto à maioria das inovações tecnológicas se concretizarem nas próximas duas ou três décadas, o nosso imaginário conhecerá um deslocamento, com o fim da ameaça da crise ambiental e o surgimento da ameaça decorrente de um mundo sem trabalho, mas com abundância de bens produzidos por máquinas. O medo do aquecimento global poderá ser substituído, assim, pelo medo do fim da igualdade, com a criação da dissemelhança entre os humanos produtivos e a “classe dos inúteis”. O esgarçamento do princípio da igualdade traria consigo ameaça de disrupção nas bases da sociedade moderna. Não se trata de nenhuma profecia, mas uma simples hipótese de futuro.
Social-Ecological System constraints of Protected Areas. A case study of Mexican protected forests
Authors: Eugene Hakizimana , Rivero Arturo Lara , Huitron Ignacio Llamas
Published: May 2019

Protected Areas are worldwide accepted as conservation policy instrument. However, effectiveness of this instrument for sustainability management of protected resources is still problematic. It is in this context this paper investigates Social-Ecological System constraints which lead to unsuccessful situations in protected forests in Mexico. To achieve this objective, a methodology of E. Ostrom SES framework to carry out meta-analysis of case studies of Mexican forests is used. The results show that constraints are imbedded into attributes of governance of these resources by local communities through a set of variables whose patterns of interactions lead to successful or unsuccessful situations. These variables are variables characterizing governance system and variables characterizing actors’ system. The interactions of these variables lead to successful situations in case studies in which local community members highly participate in governance system.
Aspectos Associados à Degradação Ambiental e ao Uso de Efluentes na Agricultura do Brasil
Authors: Franco Heider Alves , Thode Filho Sérgio , Pérez Daniel Vidal , Maques Monica Regina da Costa
Published: May 2019

A exploração dos recursos naturais ao longo da história desconsiderou os impactos causados sobre a sua continuidade no atendimento às necessidades humanas. A água apresenta a maior preocupação a nível mundial, e a sua escassez torna o uso racional uma atitude inevitável. A utilização de efluentes na agricultura pode contribuir na redução da exploração dos recursos hídricos. Esse estudo apresentou uma discussão e levantamento bibliográfico sobre reaproveitamento de resíduo - efluente/água residuária na agricultura - utilizando como ferramentas: o histórico da exploração e a degradação dos recursos naturais em áreas urbanas e rurais; e um panorama do uso de efluentes na agricultura. Conclui-se que a degradação dos recursos naturais, aliada as mudanças climáticas e ao constante aumento da população e de suas necessidades, são os subsídios básicos para que se estimulem as pesquisas quanto ao uso de efluentes, na agricultura e atividades afins.
Aptidão Agrícola das Terras e Avaliação dos Conflitos de Uso das Bacias dos Rios Claro e dos Bois, Estado de Goiás
Authors: Barbalho Maria Gonçalves da Silva , Castro Selma Simões de
Published: May 2019

A aptidão agrícola das terras das bacias dos rios Claro e dos Bois no Estado de Goiás, foi elaborada para subsidiar a análise do grau de conflito do uso do solo nessa área e avaliar sua relação com os impactos ambientais aí constatados, sobretudo erosivos. Os dados revelaram o predomínio da classe 2 (bc, (b) e (bc)), com 45,52% da área, com aptidão regular para as lavouras nos níveis de manejo B e C. Segue-se a classe 04 com 21,7% com aptidão boa, regular ou restrita para pastagem plantada, no nível de manejo B. A classe 01 apresenta 7,27% da área com aptidão boa para lavouras em pelo menos um dos níveis de manejo. Apenas 24,74% da área foram consideradas como terras sem aptidão agrícola e/ou de preservação. Conclui-se que a área, apresenta elevado potencial de uso agropecuário, logo os impactos existentes não derivariam do uso, mas do manejo.
Management of Patients with Heart Failure: Focus on New Pharmaceutical and Device Options
Authors: Briasoulis Alexandros , Inampudi Chakradhari , Hatzis Georgios , Asleh Rabea
Published: May 2019

Hospitalization rates and survival of patients with Heart Failure (HF) have improved.
However, 5-year mortality rates remain high and the prevalence of the disease is rising likely due to
aging of the population and advances in diagnosis and treatment of other acute and chronic cardiovascular
diseases. Over the past three decades the therapeutic armamentarium of heart failure has improved
substantially with development of medications targeting neuro-hormonal activation and devices
preventing sudden cardiac death and improving cardiac synchrony. Recently, inhibition of angiotensin
receptors and neprilysin as well as sinoatrial pacemaker modulating f-current, have been
found safe and effective strategies that improve HF hospitalization rates and/or mortality. Antidiabetic
agents inhibiting sodium-glucose co-transporters 2, result in natriuresis and osmotic diuresis
and may further improve HF related outcomes. Furthermore, emerging therapies such as cardiac myosin
activators, soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor
antagonists are undergoing investigation in phase II and III studies of HF patients. Finally, rapid evolution
of in the management of advanced HF has occurred with the application of second and third
generation continuous flow left ventricular assist devices in clinical practice. Ongoing clinical studies
will validate the safety and efficacy of emerging therapeutic strategies in HF population underrepresented
in previous clinical trials.
A Reliable LC-MS/MS Method for the Quantification of Two Pairs of Isomeric Flavonoids from Commelina Communis Linn in Rat Plasma: Validation and Pharmacokinetic Applications
Authors: Liang Caijuan , Yin Jintuo , Ma Yinling , Zhang Xia , Gao Jin , Zhang Lantong
Published: May 2019

Background:

Commelina communis Linn (Commelinae Herba) is a traditional Chinese medicine
that can be used both as food and as medicine. It has been used to treat a variety of disorders, including
a cold, high fever, sore throat, edema and oliguria for many years. Two pairs of isomeric flavonoid
glycosides are the main active components in Commelina communis Linn, and they have a high
content.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine the pharmacodynamic and pharmacological
effects of Commelina communis Linn.

Method:

A sensitive, efficient, and rapid LC-MS/MS method was developed to simultaneously identify
two pairs of isomeric flavonoid glycosides in rats. Chromatographic separation was carried out on a
Wonda Cract ODS-2 C18 column (150 mm x 4.6 mm, 5 μm) using a mobile phase composed of 0.1%
formic acid (aqueous solution) and methanol at a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. The detection of the four
analytes and the internal standard (IS) sulfamethoxazole was performed with multiple reaction monitoring
(MRM) in negative electrospray ionization mode. All the analytes were eluted within 20 min.

Results:

This method was successfully applied for simultaneous identification of the concentrations of
the four compounds in the plasma after the oral administration of 10 mL/kg Commelina communis Linn
extract to rats. The pharmacokinetic study indicated that analytes reached their Cmax in approximately 15
min and could be detected until 12 h.

Conclusion:

The method complies with the State Food and Drug Administration guidelines for selectivity,
sensitivity, accuracy, precision, matrix effect, extraction recovery and stability. This is the first report
on the pharmacokinetics of Commelina communis Linn. The information gained from this research
may be valuable for the preclinical and clinical applications of Commelina communis Linn.
Influence of mind mapping method implementation on learning results social science is required from students interest
Authors: Astawa Dewa Nyoman Wija
Published: May 2019

This study aimed at investigating the effect of the implementation of mind mapping learning method to the students’ social science achievement viewed from learning interest at the fourth-grade students of an elementary school in Denpasar city in the academic year 2016/2017. This study was quasi-experimental research which applied the posttest-only control group design involving 80 students of grade four at elementary school in Denpasar city who were selected by using the total sample sampling technique. The data of the students’ social science achievement and learning interest were collected and then analyzed using the Analysis of Covariance (Anacova). The result of this study showed that the students’ social science achievement who were treated with mind mapping learning method was higher compared to the students’ social science achievement of those treated with the conventional learning method. This difference was consistent even though the students’ learning interest has been controlled. Based on the result of this study, it is suggested that mind mapping learning method be applied in the teaching and learning process of social science at the elementary school.
Community-Based Chronic Disease Prevention and Management for Aboriginal People in New South Wales, Australia: Mixed Methods Evaluation of the 1 Deadly Step Program (Preprint)
Authors: Peiris David , Wright Lachlan , News Madeline , Corcoran Katherine
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Chronic diseases account for over 70% of health gaps between Aboriginal people and the rest of the Australian population. The 1 Deadly Step program involves community-based events that use a sporting platform and cultural ambassadors to improve chronic disease prevention and management in New South Wales (NSW).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a community-based chronic disease screening program for Aboriginal people.

METHODS

In 2015, the program was enhanced to include an iPad app for screening assessments, a results portal for nominated care providers, and a reporting portal for program administrators and implemented in 9 NSW community events. A mixed methods evaluation comprising survey data, analytics obtained from iPad and Web portal usage, and key informant interviews was conducted.

RESULTS

Overall, 1046 people were screened between April 2015 and April 2016 (mean age 40.3 years, 640 (61.19%) female, 957 (91.49%) Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander). High chronic disease rates were observed (231 [22.08%] participants at high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, 173 [16.54%] with diabetes, and 181 [17.30%] with albuminuria). A minority at high risk of CVD (99/231 [42.9%]) and with diabetes (73/173 [42.2%]) were meeting guideline-recommended management goals. Overall, 297 participants completed surveys (response rate 37.4%) with 85.1% reporting satisfaction with event organization and information gained and 6.1% experiencing problems with certain screening activities. Furthermore, 21 interviews were conducted. A strong local working group and processes that harnessed community social networks were key to implementation success. Although software enhancements facilitated screening and data management, some technical difficulties (eg, time delays in processing blood test results) impeded smooth processing of information. Only 51.43% of participants had a medical review recorded postevent with wide intersite variability (10.5%-85.6%). Factors associated with successful follow-up included clinic managers with overall program responsibility and availability of medical staff for immediate discussion of results on event day. The program was considered highly resource intensive to implement and support from a central coordinating body and integration with existing operational processes was essential.

CONCLUSIONS

1 Deadly Step offers an effective and acceptable strategy to engage Aboriginal communities in chronic disease screening. High rates of risk factors and management gaps were encountered, including people with no previous knowledge of these issues. Strategies to improve linkage to primary care could enhance the program’s impact on reducing chronic disease burden.
Escape Rooms as a method of clinical evaluation in Nursing Students: A quasi-experimental study (Preprint)
Authors: Márquez-Hernández Verónica V. , Gutierrez-Puertas Lorena , Roman Pablo , Rodríguez-Arrastia Miguel J. , Ropero-Padilla Carmen , Molina-Torres Guadalupe
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Gamification has been shown to be a positive learning tool for its use among nursing students, but there are currently no studies available about its possible implementation in the evaluation of nursing students’ clinical skills.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to understand the gameful experience and satisfaction of nursing students in the evaluation of their clinical skills using an escape room, as opposed to the traditional method of objective structured clinical evaluation.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental study was carried out on 237 nursing students divided randomly into a control group (n=120) and an experimental group (n=117). The participants completed a questionnaire about their knowledge and then the experimental group also filled out a questionnaire about their game experience and their satisfaction with the game.

RESULTS

The finding showed higher than average scores in all the dimensions of the Gameful Experience Scale, except in the dimension of negative effects. Regarding satisfaction, the highest scores were found in the dimensions of activity duration (3.51±0.66); the organisers’ attentiveness to students (3.60±0.61) and applicability of content to their training (3.50±0.58). As for the final evaluation, statistically significant differences were found between both groups (U=759.500; Z=-11.878; p<0.05), and the experimental group had a final average score of 9.59±0.36, while the control group’s was 7.46±1.36.

CONCLUSIONS

Escape rooms are a useful tool used for evaluation of nursing students as opposed to objective structured clinical evaluation.