bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arc Voltage as an Indicator of Nozzle Ablation Degradation in High-voltage CO2 Gas Circuit Breakers
Authors: Zhou Yannan , Humphries James , Spencer Joseph , Yan Joseph
Published: August 2023

Energy released by electric arc during short-circuit current interruption is mostly absorbed by the surrounding cold gas and partly transferred to the arcing contacts and nozzle. The radiation is the main mode of thermal energy transfer between the electric arc and nozzle surface. Experimental research on the nozzle ablation has been carried out at a model circuit breaker, in which CO2 is filled in the chamber and poly-tetrafluoro-ethylene (PTFE) is used as the nozzle material. It is found that the arc voltage can be as an indicator of nozzle ablation degradation by comparing the voltage at current peak and arc voltage extinction peak. Under 20kA and 35kA peak current interrupting conditions, the voltage at current peak decreases with the number of operations. There are two factors that affect the arc voltage at current peak. One is the size of the arc cross section, and the other is the content of PTFE entering the arc zone, which affects its conductivity.
Prática clínica endodôntica e o vírus Monkeypox
Authors: Cruz Alvaro , Sánchez Claudia A. Palafox , Estrela Cynthia R. A. , Cintra Luciano T. A. , Gascón Gerardo , Camarena Diana C. Salazar , García Noemí Espinoza , Estrela Carlos
Published: August 2023

Introdução: O atual surto global do vírus Monkeypox (VMP) trouxe alguma incerteza entre os dentistas, devido às escassas e muito recentes informações sobre possíveis infeções cruzadas na prática clínica. Objetivos: O presente estudo relata uma atualização sobre as informações de interesse odontológico mais relevantes sobre esse surto infeccioso, para entender sua origem, vias de transmissão, sinais e sintomas característicos, imunização e sua prevenção. Métodos: Foi realizada uma busca nos guias oficiais sobre VMP no México, Estados Unidos da América (EUA), Europa e Brasil. Também foi realizada uma busca na PubMed por artigos com o termo monkeypox, combinado com origem, dados epidemiológicos, sinais e sintomas clínicos, diagnóstico e manejo clínico. Foram selecionados aqueles com maior número de citações ou os mais recentes, que explicassem de forma relevante os subtemas supracitados sobre o VMP. Resultados: Foi feito um resumo dos artigos selecionados e das diretrizes oficiais do Ministério da Saúde do México, da PEMEX, bem como dos Centros de Controle e Prevenção de Doenças dos EUA, Europa e Brasil, e da California Dental Association, apresentando os aspectos relativos à Odontologia. Discussão: A doença causada pelo Monkeypox virus é altamente infecciosa e transmissível. Como apenas os nascidos antes de 1980 receberam a vacina contra a varíola, a porcentagem da população imunizada é baixa, de modo que o surto atual pode sair do controle, se não forem tomadas as medidas adequadas. Conclusões: Como as primeiras manifestações do VMP ocorrem na boca, os dentistas podem detectar os casos iniciais e ajudar a interromper a transmissão desse vírus. É obrigatório que protocolos rigorosos sejam seguidos no atendimento odontológico, para evitar infecções cruzadas.
Tratamento endodôntico não cirúrgico de um dente associado a uma grande lesão periapical: relato de caso com 24 meses de acompanhamento
Authors: Ribeiro Francisco Carlos , Viana Joseph Cotta , Scardini Iandara Lima , Reis Claudia Mendonça , Xavier Juliana Machado Barroso
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: O presente relato de caso descreve o tratamento endodôntico não cirúrgico de um incisivo central superior direito com histórico de trauma, associado a uma grande lesão periapical. Relato do caso: Paciente do sexo feminino, com 15 anos de idade, apresentou as coroas dos dentes #11, #12 e #13 deslocadas vestibularmente, e aumento de volume na região vestibular superior direita. Os dentes #11 e #21 não responderam ao teste de sensibilidade pulpar. A radiografia periapical indicou ausência do espaço referente à cavidade pulpar no dente #21, e as imagens de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico revelaram uma área circunscrita hipodensa, com bordos bem definidos envolvendo os ápices dos dentes #11, #12, #13 e #14, com afinamento da cortical óssea vestibular da região. A região periapical do dente #21 não apresentou alterações. O tratamento endodôntico foi realizado no dente #11 em duas consultas, utilizando a técnica de Oregon modificada no preparo químico-mecânico. Um tampão apical com agregado trióxido mineral foi realizado no terço apical, e o restante do canal radicular foi obturado com guta-percha e cimento AH Plus, utilizando a técnica híbrida de Tagger. Resultados: Reavaliações clínicas e tomográficas após 12 e 24 meses revelaram regressão da lesão, neoformação óssea progressiva e manutenção da normalidade na região periapical do dente #21. As coroas dos dentes #11, #12 e #13 retornaram para a posição correta. Conclusão: O presente relato de caso confirma o uso potencial do tratamento não cirúrgico no manejo de lesões periapicais grandes causadas pela infecção do canal radicular.
Atividade antimicrobiana da clorexidina e hidróxido de cálcio, isoladamente ou combinados, como medicação intracanal
Authors: Gomes Nilton Vivaqua , Gomes Brenda Paula , Monteiro Cynthia , Geus Juliana Larocca de , Ferraz Caio Cezar
Published: August 2023

Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a atividade residual e antimicrobiana do gel de clorexidina a 2% e do hidróxido de cálcio, isoladamente ou em combinação, como medicação intracanal. MÉTODOS: Cem pré-molares foram preparados e infectados por E. faecalis, e divididos em seis grupos: gel de clorexidina a 2% por 7 dias (CHX7); hidróxido de cálcio por 7 dias (CH7) e 14 dias (CH14); clorexidina a 2% combinada com hidróxido de cálcio por 7 dias (CHX + CH7); e dois grupos controle (gel de natrosol a 1% por 7 e 14 dias). Após 25 dias de incubação, as medicações intracanal foram removidas e os canais radiculares foram preenchidos com BHI para incubação adicional por 7 dias, para avaliação da substantividade antimicrobiana. As contagens de E. faecalis foram realizadas antes e após a instrumentação, após a remoção da medicação intracanal e após a análise de substantividade. Os dados foram analisados pelos testes de Kruskal- -Wallis (intergrupos) e de Friedman (intragrupos) (α = 0,05); Resultados: Todos os grupos apresentaram desinfecção estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05). CHX7 e CHX + CH7 apresentaram a maior redução e efeito residual de E. faecalis. Não houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre esses grupos (p > 0,05), mas houve diferença estatisticamente significativa entre CH7 e CH14 (p < 0,05). Os grupos controle apresentaram crescimento bacteriano. Conclusões: A clorexidina sozinha e em combinação com hidróxido de cálcio mostrou o melhor efeito antimicrobiano in vitro contra E. faecalis. O hidróxido de cálcio sozinho não mostrou diferença estatística em 7 e 14 dias.
KRONOLOJİK YAŞIN ÖTESİNDE: ÖZNEL YAŞ ÇALIŞMALARININ TARİHİ, TANIMI VE GÜNCEL BULGULAR
Authors: SOYLU Cem
Published: August 2023

Öznel yaş, bireylerin kendilerini ne ölçüde genç ya da yaşlı hissettikleri temeline dayanan ve yaşlanma sürecini keşfetme fırsatı sunan bir kavram olarak tanımlanmış ve son yıllarda özellikle gelişim psikolojisi alan yazınında ciddi anlamda ilgi görmüştür. Araştırmacılar, bireylerin kendilerini kaç yaşında hissettikleri ve yaşlanma sürecinin neresinde oldukları hakkındaki kişisel değerlendirmelerinin, hem bireysel hem de toplumsal faktörlerden etkilendiğini ve bu bakımdan öznel yaşın karmaşık bir yapıya sahip olduğunu belirtmişlerdir. Ayrıca, güncel araştırma bulguları bireyin kendisini kronolojik yaşından daha genç hissetmesinin daha iyi fiziksel ve bilişsel sağlık, daha yüksek yaşam doyumu, daha az bilişsel gerilemeler, daha düşük morbidite ve daha uzun ömür gibi bir dizi olumlu gelişimsel sonuçlar ile ilişkili olduğunu göstermektedir. Bu derlemenin amacı, öznel yaş kavramının tanımı ve tarihi ile ilgili kısa bir bilgi verdikten sonra öznel yaşla ilişkili kavramları ele almak ve öznel yaşın yaşam boyu nasıl bir örüntü izlediğini ortaya koymaktır. İzleyen bölümlerde ise öznel yaşı yordayan ve öznel yaş tarafından yordanan değişkenlerle ilgili güncel araştırma bulguları sunularak öznel yaşın ölçümü ile ilgili yöntemsel sorunlara değinilmiştir.
UYKUSUZLUK, AKILLI TELEFON BAĞIMLILIĞI, BİLİNÇLİ FARKINDALIK VE AKRAN ETKİSİNE DİRENME ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİLER
Authors: CIRCIR Osman , BAYAR Yusuf
Published: August 2023

Bu araştırmanın temel amacı, ergenlerde akıllı telefon bağımlılığı ile uykusuzluk arasındaki ilişkiyi incelemek ayrıca bu ilişkide bilinçli farkındalık ve akran etkisine direnmenin yordayıcı rolünün olup olmadığını belirlemektir. Bu araştırma, bir ilişkisel tarama modeli olarak yürütülmüştür. Araştırmanın örneklemi, 2022-2023 eğitim-öğretim yılında Konya’nın farklı liselerinde öğrenim gören 370 öğrenciden oluşmaktadır. Yapılan analizlerden elde edilen bulgular incelendiğinde, ergenlerin akıllı telefon bağımlılıklarının uykusuzluğu pozitif yönde ve anlamlı düzeyde, akran etkisine direnmenin ise akıllı telefon bağımlılığını negatif yönde ve anlamlı düzeyde yordadığı bulunmuştur. Son olarak bilinçli farkındalığın akran etkisine direnmeyi pozitif, akıllı telefon bağımlılığını ve uykusuzluğu ise negatif yönde ve anlamlı düzeyde yordadığı bulunmuştur. Bulgular bir bütün olarak değerlendirildiğinde, ergenlerin bilinçli farkındalığı arttıkça akran etkisine daha fazla direnebildikleri ve böylece akran etkisine bağlı olarak ortaya çıkabilecek akıllı telefon bağımlısı olma risklerinin de düştüğü görülmektedir. Nihayetinde, akıllı telefon bağımlılığından kaynaklı olarak ortaya çıkabilecek uykusuzluk sorunlarının azalmasında bilinçli farkındalığın ve akran etkisine direnmenin hem doğrudan hem de dolaylı rolleri vardır. Elde edilen bulgular alanyazın doğrultusunda tartışılarak araştırmacı ve uygulayıcılara yönelik öneriler sunulmuştur.
Implementation of The Pulmonary Tuberculosis Control Program at Sikumana Public Health Center
Authors: Malehere Eleta
Published: August 2023

Introduction: According to the East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Health Office, Kupang City is the city with the highest contribution to pulmonary TB cases in 2021 with 491 cases and the Sikumana Health Center is the Public Health Center with the highest number of TB cases with 88 cases, patient recovery rate of 68.2%, and not reached the national target of 100%. The purpose of this study was to analyze the implementation of the pulmonary TB control program at the Sikumana Health Center. Methods : The research study was qualitative research using in-depth interview techniques. The number of informants was 11 informants. This research was conducted at the Sikumana Health Center, District Maulafa, City of Kupang from February to April 2023.Results: In the input aspect, the funds program, and human resources are sufficient, and the facilities for implementing the TB program are incomplete. In the process aspect, the planning and implementation stages have been going according to the proposed activity plan, but in the monitoring and supervision activities, it is still lacking because it is administrative and based on recording and reporting only. In the output aspect, the coverage of case detection in 2022 is 58.5%, the notification rate for all cases is 22.8%, the treatment success rate is 94.2%, and the cure rate is 98.2%.Conclusion: The Pulmonary Tuberculosis program implementation in Sikumana Health Center wasn’t implemented successfully because of process and input problems such as facilities and human resources. There should be regular training for TB program implementing officers, a special room for sputum collection, and routine supervision to the laboratory.
Transfer Factor as an Option for Managing the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Viza D. , Pizza G. , De Vinci C. , Brandi G. , Ablashi Dharam
Published: August 2023

Covid-19 or SARS-CoV-2, a new RNA virus with high infectivity, and seemingly low mutability, which appeared in 2019 in the Wuhan province of China, has created a pandemic with dire consequences. At the end of May 2020, it became the first cause of mortality. As no treatment or vaccine may become available before many months, and because occurrence of similar pandemics is only a matter of time, arguments are presented here for testing the effect of transfer factor (TF), an immunomodulator devoid of toxicity, which has been extensively studied in the past for the treatment and prevention of viral infections.
Response of an ozone indicator plant before and after installation of a desulphurization device at a thermal power plant
Authors: Kopušar Nataša , Mazej Zdenka , Batič Franc
Published: August 2023

The main goal of the research was to compare the plant response to air pollutants in the rural environment (Zavodnje village) before and after the installation of a desulphurisation device at unit 5 of the Šoštanj Thermal Power Plant (Slovenia). The installation of the cleaning device for SO2 in the year 2001 caused very significant reduction of annual average SO2 emission and immission, while concentrations of dust particles, O3, NOx, and CO2 in Zavodnje remained unchanged. On the other hand the average concentrations of ozone during seasonal experimental period increased after 2001, but there were no significant differences in AOT40. The impact of O3 in combination with other air pollutants was studied at Zavodnje in the period 1996–2003 using white clover (Trifolium repens ‘Regal’) on the basis of visible ozone injuries of leaves, biomass reduction and by analysis of chosen biochemical stress parameters in leaves – the content of plant pigments and antioxidants. The effects of reduction of SO2 after 2001 were observed in the biochemical responses of white clover plants, which showed better vitality. Despite of that, there was no significant difference in the level of plant injury by ozone between the period 1996–2000 and period 2001–2003. Biomass ratio CN-S/CN-R was also unaffected.
Environmental assessment and macrophytes of the watercourses Bloščica and Cerkniščica
Authors: Mechora Špela , Kuhar Urška , Germ Mateja
Published: August 2023

The aim of the present work was to determine the abundance and distribution of macrophytes in streams Bloščica and Cerkniščica and to establish the relation between environment characteristics and abundance of macrophytes. The environmental and macrophytes’ inventory was made on the whole length of the watercourse. We determined a presence, abundance and growth form of macrophytes and environmental parameters according to modiﬁed RCE Inventory. Nineteen taxa were found in the watercourse Bloščica and 20taxa in the watercourse Cerkniščica. Canonical correspondence analysis revealed that six environmental parameters signiﬁcantly affected macrophyte community, the most inﬂuential being bottom structure, the width of riparian zone, retention devices in a channel and the land use beyond the riparian zone.
Respiration and ingestion rate of different sized Daphnia pulex fed on four algal species
Authors: Simčič Tatjana
Published: August 2023

Respiration rate and ingestion rate for four different algal species (Scenedesmus quadricauda, Asterionella formosa, Aphanizomenon ﬂos-aquae and Planktotrix rubescens) of different sized Daphnia pulex were measured in the laboratory. Population of D. pulex grew maximally when it fed S.quadricauda, but the presence of P. rubescens and A. ﬂos-aquae caused negative population growth rate. Ingestion rates increased with increasing body size for all in- vestigated algae; the lowest b value was obtained for S. quadricauda and the highest one for P. rubescens. The amount of ingested carbon exceeded the required amount for standard metabolism in both small and large sized individuals fed all four algal species. Relatively higher amount of ingested A. ﬂos-aquae and P. rubescens in comparison with A. formosa and S. quadricauda and the results of the growth experiments indicate that the inhibitory effect of ﬁlamentous blue-green algae on D. pulex is more due to toxicity, low assimilation efﬁciency or/and inadequate composition than incapability of ingestion due to mechanical interference with ﬁlaments.
Science goes to school: A new model for introduction of modern biology teaching strategies to Slovene schools
Authors: Vilhar Barbara , Strgulc Krajšek Simona
Published: August 2023

In the framework of the project Science Goes to School, we developed and tested a new model for introduction of modern biology teaching strategies to Slovene schools. The project focused around a close university-school partnership, bringing together the expertise of scientists from the University of Ljubljana and the experiences of teachers from 22 Slovene secondary schools (grades 9-12, age of students 15-19). The project comprised three phases. During the introductory workshop, project scientists and partner teachers identiﬁed curriculum topics with an acute lack of good-quality teaching materials. During the second phase, university scientists developed new practical activities for students and prepared comprehensive teaching materials. Each new activity was tested in partner schools, with a scientist acting as a visiting teacher. Partner teachers were present in the class during testing and were hence trained in the authentic environment of their own classrooms. Both teachers and students contributed their comments and suggestions for improvement of new activities. The visiting scientist also acted as a role model motivating the students to consider science careers. During the third phase, the new teaching materials were published in a handbook for teachers and on the internet. In addition, the new activities were presented to a wider community of teachers and school laboratory assistants during a training workshop. The project was favourably received among the teachers, the project scientists and the students in partner schools. To efﬁciently improve biology education in Slovene schools, such activities require long-term, stable funding from national sources.
Diversity and ecology of epiphytic and terricolous lichen mycota in Gorski kotar and Kvarner littoral (Croatia)
Authors: Ozimec Siniša
Published: August 2023

This paper lists a total of 264 taxa of lichenized and non-lichenized fungi recorded for Gorski kotar and Kvarner littoral; specifically, 184 for Gorski kotar and 170 for Kvarner littoral. Nine taxa are new to Croatia. The list is based on literature records and field work carried out in periods 2000–2002, and 2009–2010. Taxonomic analyses as well as ecological and phytogeographical analyses are presented. The ecological characterization of the lichen flora was determined by assessing the indicato values, and comparing them to values determined for adjacent areas in Slovenia and Italy. Due to particularities in relief and climate, percentage of lichens of oceanic/ suboceanic distribution is higher along the eastern Adriatic coast, in relation to the west Adriatic coast.
Defence responses of Norway spruce seedlings to elicitors of ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus tinctorius and pathogen Heterobasidion annosum are affected by zeatin riboside
Authors: Likar Matevž , Regvar Marjana
Published: August 2023

Cytokinins are known to attenuate defence responses of plants after elicitor application or inoculation with fungi. To evaluate their role in the regulation of colonisation of Norway spruce (Picea abies) seedlings with mycorrhizal and pathogenic fungus, we analysed the effects of zeatin riboside (ZR) on: i) growth of ectomycorrhizal fungus Pisolithus tinctorius and pathogen Heterobasidion annosum in axenic cultures, ii) colonisation intensity of selected fungi on P. abies seedlings and iii) induction of defence reactions of spruce seedlings following elicitor treatment. Mycorrhizal fungus P. tinctorius showed increased growth at concentrations higherthan 10-2 µM ZR that was accompanied by increased ergosterol concentrations. In contrast, decreased growth of pathogen H. annosum was observed at the highest ZR (10 µM) concentration. ZR treatment also increased colonisation of spruce seedlingswith the mycorrhizal fungus. Application of cell wall preparations of both fungi increased peroxidase (POD) activity in the roots of treated spruce seedlings, whereas only elicitors of H. annosum increased also phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity,levels of soluble phenolics and salicylic acis (SA) concentrations. Application of ZR negated the increased activity of POD that was observed in elicitor treated seedlings, accompanied by increased levels of soluble phenolics in the roots of elicitated seedlings. In contrast, no effects of ZR treatment on PAL activity and SA accumulation could be observed. Our results suggest involvement of ZR in the regulation of cell wall modifications during the fungal colonisation with P. tinctorius and formation of ectomycorrhizae, by affecting the growth of fungal partner and non-specific defence reactions of the plant host.
Status of the lynx (Lynx lynx) in the German Alps from 2005–2009
Authors: Wölfl Sybille , Wölfl Manfred
Published: August 2023

We give a short overview of the monitoring results of lynx in the 5-year period 1995–2009. There is no confirmed evidence that there are lynx in the German Alps. Single individuals might have visited the area but signs occur only sporadically. In 2008 Large Carnivore Network has been established to identify and document signs of lynx, wolf and bear. It is the first step to systemize the lynx monitoring. A natural recolonization of the German Alps is not expected in the near future.
Preliminary multispecies test of a model for non-lethal estimation of metabolic activity in freshwater crayfish
Authors: Simčič Tatjana , Pajk Franja , Brancelj Anton , Vrezec Al
Published: August 2023

We tested the applicability of electron transport system (ETS) derived from a single leg as a tool for non-lethal assessment of metabolicactivity in freshwater crayfish. ETS activity of the whole body and of a leg was measured in four crayfish (Arthropoda, Crustacea, Decapoda)species: two European (Astacus astacus, Austro- potamobius torrentium), and two North American (Orconectes limosus, Pacifastacusleniusculus). Mass scaling of whole body ETS activity (ETSwhole) and leg ETS activity (ETSleg) was not significantly different for the European A. astacus and the America O. limosus. Therefore common models were constructed and tested on the remaining two species. The ratio ETSwhole/ETSleg was significantly positively related to body mass. In the first model (model 1) ETSwhole was calculated from ETSleg multiplied by the ratio estimated from the known body mass. ETSwhole of A. torrentium was underestimated by this model, because they mature at smaller body size than the larger species. A direct relation between ETSleg and ETSwhole was therefore proposed as a general model (model 2), since they are correlated similarly in the studied species. The results show that model 2 is suitable for estimating the whole body ETS activity from leg ETS activity for the four investigated decapods.
Status and distribution of the lynx (Lynx lynx) in the Italian Alps 2005–2009
Authors: Molinari Paolo , Bionda Radames , Carmignola Giorgio , Groff Claudio , Mingozzi Toni , Marucco Francesca , Molinari-Jobin Anja
Published: August 2023

To assess the status of lynx we analysed lynx signs of presence within the range of the Italian Alps from 2005 to 2009. A total of 268 signs have been collected, compared to 411 signs during the previous pentad. The distribution of the confirmed signs of lynx presence isconfined to three concise areas: the North-eastern Alps of Friuli VG, the Trentino province and the Ossola valley in the Piedmont region. Occupancy modelling revealed a decrease of the lynx range by one third: The estimated number of occupied 100 km2 cells decreased from 34 (pentad: 2000–2004) to 21 (pentad: 2005–2009). Less than 10% of the Italian Alps are colonized. We estimated the number of lynx present in all the Italian Alps at less than 15 individuals. Therefore, the persistence of lynx in the Italian Alps highly depends on immigration from neighbouring countries.
Signs of lynx presence in Liechtenstein: 2005 – 2009.
Authors: Frick Holger
Published: August 2023

Signs of lynx presence were recorded three times between 2005 and 2009.
Elemental composition of wheat, common buckwheat, and tartary buckwheat grains under conventional production
Authors: Orožen Lea , Vogel-Mikuš Katarina , Likar Matevž , Nečemer Marijan , Kump Peter , Regvar Marjana
Published: August 2023

The elemental composition of cereal and pseudocereal grain is believed to significantly affect the portions of the minerals supplied for particular human populations. Therefore, care needs to be taken to improve the availability of the essential elements and to decrease unwanted metal accumulation in edible plant parts. In the present study, we have investigated the element accumulation in the grain of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench), and tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn.), harvested from the same field under conventional grain production. Soil and grain element compositions were analysed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. The wheat grain shows significantly higher (p < 0.05) higher element concentrations than both of the buckwheat species tested. The contents of elements in 100 g grain were higher than the concentrations listed in the literature for wheat and buckwheat flours, which indicates significant losses of elements during milling and polishing. Concerns are raised due to the high and unwanted metal ac- cumulation in wheat and buckwheat. The data indicate that both of these buckwheat species accumulate less metal contaminants when compared to wheat.
The synergy of xenobiotics in honey bee Apis mellifera: mechanisms and effects
Authors: Glavan Gordana , Božič Janko
Published: August 2023

During foraging activities honeybees are frequently exposed to different xenobiotics, most of them are agrochemical pesticides and beehive chemicals. Many pesticides are applied together and synergism is likely to occur in different organisms. The risk of synergisms is neglected and relatively few studies were performed concerning the effects and synergy mechanism of different xenobiotic combinations in honeybees. The understanding of synergy mechanisms between xenobiotics is very important for the control of defined mixtures use and also for the prediction of potential toxicity of newly developed substances in agriculture and apiculture. This review is focused on the effects, mechanisms and molecular targets of xenobiotics in honeybees and possible complex mechanisms of their synergisms. The main threat for honeybees are insecticides which primary molecular targets are few neuronal molecules therefore causing the impairment of neuronal system that have a profound effect on honeybee behavior, cognitive functions and physiology. However, the majority of synergistic effects observed in honeybees were ascribed to the inhibition of etoxifying midgut enzymes P450 involved in xenobiotic metabolism since most of studies were done with the mixtures xenobiotic/P450 inhibitor. The main inhibitors of P450 enzymes are specific compounds used to prolong the effects of pesticides aswell as some fungicides. Some insecticides can also interact with these enzymes and influence the xenobiotis. Although the primary mechanisms of action of individual xenobiotics especially insecticides are well known and there are possible interactions in honeybees at their primary target sites, this issue is underestimated and it warrants further investigation.
Educational outcomes from summer camps on conservation of freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Torkar Gregor , Mohar Petra
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the educational outcomes of different activities organized through summer camps concerning the conservation of freshwater ecosystems. The six-day duration camps were organised in three different locations across Slovenia. The camps were attended by 15 males and 27 females, aged 11 to 18 years. Educational outcomes were measured on the fifth and sixth day of each camp, using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. Results showed that participants greatly enjoyed attending the camps. The respondents reported that they learned much about freshwater ecosystems, fauna and flora, different research methods and handling research equipment. They also showed a high awareness andunderstanding of problems related to freshwater ecosystem conservation.
Model of 3D structure of putative parasitism factor, expansin (EXPB2) from golden potato cyst nematode Globodera rostochiensis
Authors: Gerič Stare Barbara , Širca Saša , Urek Gregor
Published: August 2023

Expansins are a group of plant cell wall loosening proteins. In animals, functional expansin (EXPB1) has been discovered in the golden potato cyst nematode Globodera rostochiensis. In plant-parasitic nematodes expansins act as the parasitism factors or effectors. Molecular variability of another expansin (expB2) gene was evaluated in diverse populations of the G. rostochiensis. 3D modelling of GR-EXPB2 protein sequences revealed variants with different tertiary protein structure. Superimposing PDB structures of the protein model of common type protein with two longer variants revealed difference in position of one loop in the two longer proteins. All longer GREXPB2 variants originated from South America.
Characteristics of centipede (Chilopoda) assemblies in Dinaric frost hollows in Velika gora (Slovenia)
Authors: Vode Branka , Kos Ivan
Published: August 2023

Current study is preliminary research of centipedes (Chilopoda) assemblies in Slovenian frost hollows. With two sampling methods in three series (June, August and November) in year 2010, 834 individuals were caught and indentified to 30 species. Most collected species had middle Europe distribution, 6 species were endemic for southeast Alps and northwest Balkan region, 3 of them are probably new for science. Five species had paleartic distribution. Maximum number of species found in one location was 28. Average density of centipedes was from 218 ind./m2 to 552 ind./m2. The alfa diversity of the centipede assemblies is medium compared to other locations in Dinaric part of Slovenia and evidently higher compare to other European forest. The same applies for average density and species richness. Overall centipede assemblies were more similar in one location during the season than to assemblies from different locations in the same month.
Germination rate of stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens) and false yellowhead (D. viscosa) in relation to salinity
Authors: Grašič Mateja , Anžlovar Sabina , Strgulc Krajšek Simona
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of salinity on germination rate of stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens (L.) Greuter) and false yellowhead (D. viscosa (L.) Greuter). Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was used as a positive control. Seeds of all three test species were sown on agar plates with three different NaCl treatments (2.5 g NaCl/L ≈ 42 mM NaCl, 5 g NaCl/L ≈ 85 mM NaCl and 10 g NaCl/L ≈ 171 mM NaCl) and control treatment without NaCl. The three tested species germinated under all salinity conditions. However, they thrived best under control conditions and their germination rate was gradually declining with increasing salinity. Additionally, the start of their germination was delayed with increasing NaCl concentration. According to our findings, we can conclude that both Dittrichia species are very tolerant to salinity.
The effects of leaf extracts of crack willow (Salix fragilis) on the growth of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica)
Authors: Dolenc Koce Jasna
Published: August 2023

Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is one of the most invasive of species in Europe, and can substantially reduce local native biodiversity. In the present study, the allelopathic potential of crack willow (Salix fragilis) on growth of Japanese knotweed was investigated.Aqueous extracts of 0.1% and 1% (w/v) were prepared from liophilised willow leaves and used for watering of young knotweed plants. Their growth was monitored for 196 days. Shoot height and leaf number were not affected but the mass of leaves and especially roots was reduced (up to 32%). At the end of experiment, biochemical characteristics related to physiological state (photochemical efficiency of PSII, protein content, enzyme activity of guaiacol peroxidase, lipid peroxidation) were measured. Mostly, they were at control levels, but the activity of guaiacol peroxidase and lipid peroxidation in roots increased. The extracts of crack willow showed moderate inhibitory effect on roots of treated knotweeds while the growth of shoots was unaffected. Given the root reduction described here, further studies with willow extracts and field studies with crack willow and Japanese knotweed plants would be reasonable.
Control of alpine dock (Rumex alpinus) by non-chemical methods
Authors: Šilc Urban , Gregori Marija
Published: August 2023

Alpine dock (Rumex alpinus) is a troublesome weed particularly in protected zones or Natura 2000 areas, in which only non-chemical control measures can be applied. The aim of our study was to investigate by means of a field experiment the effectiveness of various non-chemical methods: mowing, manual removal, heating, foil and grazing by cattle and pigs. Floristic changes, cover, number of shoots and biomass were monitored at 14-day intervals for three consecutive years. Manual removal and foil were most successful, with almost complete removal of the biomass and cover of alpine dock, and mowing, which reduced the cover to 50%. Other methods were not as efficient. Animals avoid grazing on R. alpinus and heat merely supresses dock growth for a short period.
Four decades of multidisciplinary studies on isopods: a tribute to Pavel Ličar
Authors: Bogataj Urban , Drobne Damjana , Jemec Anita , Kostanjšek Rok , Mrak Polona , Novak Sara , Prevorčnik Simona , Sket Boris , Trontelj Peter , Tušek Žnidarič Magda , Vittori Miloš , Zidar Primož , Žnidaršič Nada , Štrus Jasna
Published: August 2023

In this paper we review the research on aquatic and terrestrial isopods during the last four decades at the Chair of Zoology, Department of Biology, Biotech- nical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. Isopods have attracted substantial attention from our research team in the followingareas: functional morphology and developmental biology, host-microbiota specific interactions, ecotoxicology, and systematics and evolution. We present the rationale for using two isopod species as our central model organisms: the waterlouse (Asellus aquaticus) and thewoodlouse (Porcellio scaber). We summarize the most important and interesting findings about the structure and function of the integument and digestive systems of several amphibious and terrestrial woodlice species during molting and developmental stages, the importance of P. scaber as a model organism in the study of arthropod-microbe interactions, and its central role as a test model in terrestrial ecotoxicity studies. We highlight the role that A. aquaticus has played in studying the evolution of subterranean biodiversity and in the evolution of troglomorphies. Inaddition to the retrospective view on our research with isopods we also present the scope of our future research, and the importance for zoology(biology). We wish to dedicate this work to our late co-worker, Prof. Dr. Pavel Ličar, who devoted much of his research into studying the digestive system of freshwater asellids (Isopoda: Asellota).
Prisotnost bakterij v kalcijevih telescih kopenskih enakonožcev Androniscus roseus in Haplophthalmus mengei
Authors: Vittori Miloš , Štrus Jasna
Published: August 2023

Pri kopenskih enakonožcih iz družine Trichoniscidae so prisotna kalcije- va telesca, epitelne vrečke, v katerih se kopičijo kalcijevi minerali. Predhodne raziskave so pokazale, da sta pri vrstah Titanethes albus in Hyloniscus riparius prisotna po dva para teh organov. Pri T. albus so vsakalcijeva telesca napolnjena z bakterijami, pri H. riparius pa vsebuje bakterije le posteriorni par. V tej raziskavi smo preučili ultrastrukturo kalcijevih telesc pri vrstah Androniscus roseusin Haplophthalmus mengei. Pri obeh vrstah sta prisotna po dva para kalcijevih telesc, ki vsebujejo paličaste bakterije. Mineraliziran matriks zbakterijami je obdan z enoslojnim epitelijem z nagubano apikalno plazmalemo, ki jo prekriva tanka ovojnica, ki je plast elektronsko gostega matriksa. Rezultati potrjujejo, da je ultrastruktura kalcijevih telesc z bakterijami splošna značilnost predstavnikov družine Trichoniscidae. Kalcijeva telesca brez bakterij, ki funkcionalno nadomeščajo kalcijeve sternalne depozite, so bila dosedaj opisana zgolj pri predstavniku rodu Hyloniscus.
Vzorec osifikacije skeleta pri ličinkah navadne krastače Bufo bufo
Authors: Arčan Ane-Mary , Koželj Nyambe Tina , Strgar Mojca , Bizjak Mali Lilijana
Published: August 2023

Z uporabo presvetlitvene tehnike in barvanja skeleta za hrustančno in kostno tkivo smo spremljali vzorec osifikacije skeleta pri navadni krastač Bufo bufo, katerih ličinke imajo izredno hiter razvoj. Osredotočili smo se na osifikacijo hrbtenice, oplečja in okolčja ter okončin, s poudarkom na osifikaciji njihovih distalnih delov. Ugotovili smo, da so hrustančne zasnove skeleta ob koncu premetamorfoznega obdobja (faza 34) že oblikovane. Prve pokostenitve se pojavijo v prometamorfozi (faza 39) in sicer, sočasno v nevralnih lokih, v diafiznem delu proksimalnih elementov sprednjih in zadnjih okončin in v proksimalnem delu črevnic okolčja. Oplečje je v tej fazi še v celoti hrustančno. Osifikacija je med prometamorfozo bolj intenzivna in postopoma napreduje v kranio – kavdalni smeri vzdolž hrbtenice in od proksimalnih v distalne dele okončin, prav tako se širi iz osrednjega dela dolgih kosti okončin proti epifiznim koncem. Osifikacija prstov poteka v posteriorno – anteriorni smeri glede na os okončine. Tako kot pri večini brezrepcev, je skelet krastače ob zaključku metamorfoznega klimaksa (faza 46) skoraj popolnoma osificiran. Hrustančni ostajajo osrednji dorzalni del hrbtenice in distalni konci prečnih odstavkov vretenc, kavdalni del postsakralne regije, epifizni konci dolgih kosti okončin in karpus ter metakarpus, ter nadlopatici oplečja in sramnici okolčja. Rezultati raziskave so potrdili konzervativnost splošnega vzorca osifikacije skeleta dvoživk, navkljub da je razvoj ličink krastače v primerjavi z ostalimi brezrepci bistveno hitrejši.
Seasonal dynamics of fungal colonisation of Plantago altissima roots in a water-fluctuating wetland
Authors: M. Vengust Daniela , Gaberščik Alenka
Published: August 2023

Fungal colonisation in an amphibious plant species from an intermittent lake may differ significantly among plant specimens growing under contrasting water regimes. We examined the effect of the presence of surface water on the level of fungal colonisation in tall plantain(Plantago altissima L.). We investigated the presence and abundance of arbuscular-mycorrhizal (AM) structures, dark-septate-endophyte (DSE) fungal structures, and plant growth parameters. The observed overall frequency of fungal structures during the vegetative season was relatively high, ranging from 50% to 90%. Mycorrhizal frequency was little affected by water level fluctuations. However, it dropped significantly at the end of the season in the senescence phase. The densities of arbuscules, vesicles, and hyphal coils reached the highest levels in peak season in June and July. The density of DSE structures, namely microsclerotia, showed similar dynamics over the season as forAM structures. Mycorrhizal frequency was positively related to leaf water content.
Heavy metal accumulation and changes in phenylpropanoid metabolism induced by mining activities in leaves of Pinus nigra and Pinus eldarica
Authors: Oloumi Hakimeh , Rezanejad Farkhondeh , Gholipoor Zeynab , R. Ahmadi Ali
Published: August 2023

Plants can absorb pollutants produced through industrial activities. In this research, biochemistry and lignin biosynthesis processes are studied in Pinus nigra and P. eldarica trees, that were exposed to pollutants from Sarcheshmeh copper complex and from the Kentuiyeh ascontrol area (both Iran). Needles were collected in areas adjacent to mining factory, where heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb) are accumulated in higher concentrations than in plants from control areas. Comparison of the two studied pine species reveals that P. eldarica needles amass heavy metals 27% more than P. nigra. There was a higher content of total phenolic compounds and flavonoids in needles growing in close vicinities of the mining activity. Lignin content was similar in both species of pine and remained unchanged regardless of the pollution level. Higher activities of enzymes in phenylpropanoid pathway in needles from polluted areas were measured for both pine species. Findings of this study suggest involvement of general phenylpropanoid pathway in heavy metal resistance of pine trees. It seems that P. eldarica can accumulate more heavy metals in its needles and it has greater resistance to pollutants.
Vital fluorescent staining for non–destructive studies of neuromast topography in urodele amphibians
Authors: Prša Patrik , Bizjak Mali Lilijana
Published: August 2023

Neuromasts are mechanosensory organs found in primarily aquatic vertebrates, including many species of amphibians, and are arranged as specific patterns to form the lateral-line system on the head and along the body. We used a hair-cell-specific fluorescent dye, DiASP, to analyze the distributional pattern of neuromasts in the lateral line system of live captive-born larvae of the Italian crested newt, Triturus carnifex (Laurenti, 1768). We confirmed that DiASP presents a safe and accurate alternative method for non-destructive studies of neuromast ontogeny and distribution in live amphibians. All newt larvae subjected to analyses survived and no teratogenic effects of DiASP on their further development were observed. We were able to use these data to completely characterize the distribution of neuromasts in this species and to infer the functional significance of this distribution. Cross-species comparison of general topography points to neuromast arrangement as a conserved trait in urodelans.
In silico investigation of extracellular domain of RAGE receptor interaction with A-box and B-box of HMGB1 protein
Authors: Lotfi Safa , Dehghan Shahsaltane Marzieh
Published: August 2023

HMGB1 protein which is a non-histone chromosomal protein with two functional domains named A-box and B-box can also act as a signaling molecule after releasing from the cell and binding to the cell surface receptors such as RAGE. HMGB1 through its B-box domain binds to extracellular domain of RAGE and activates the signaling pathways involved in various pathological conditions like sepsis and tumor growth and metastasis. Interaction of recombinant HMGB1 A-box with RAGEantagonizes the RAGE activation by HMGB1. In the present study, interaction of human RAGE (hRAGE) extracellular domain (VC1C2) and B-box and A-box of human HMGB1 (hHMGB1) was investigated using a protein-protein docking software, HADDOCK. The results obtained were analyzed by PyMOL and LigPlot softwares. The results show B-box and A-box bind to different sites on the VC1domain of RAGE and one of the B-box binding points is a positively charged groove located on the V domain surface which is also a major binding site for another RAGE ligand, Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs). The obtained results can be utilized to design new potent drugs for treatment of HMGB1-RAGE-related diseases such as cancer and sepsis.
Effect of selenium, iodine and their combination on development of Tartary buckwheat sprouts
Authors: Gorše Sara , Golob Aleksandra , Germ Mateja
Published: August 2023

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn) is becoming more and more popular due to its health benefits for humans. It contains important fibres, vitamins, certain minerals and antioxidants asrutin. Sprouts are a hot trend in the food production and nutrition. Enrichment of sprouts with iodine (I) and selenium (Se) may prevent endemic deficiency of these elements for humans and animals. The aim of the study was to found out the effect of selenate (Se(VI)), iodate (I(V)) and their combination on morphological, physiological and biochemical properties of Tartary buckwheat sprouts. Tartary seedswere soaked in solutions with Se(VI) (20 mg/L), I(V) (1500 mg/L) or in Se(VI) + I(V) (20 mg/L Se(VI) +1500 mg/L (I(V)). Experiment was performed in growth chamber in two repetitions. Measurements were performed three weeks after germination. The solution of iodate and combination of selenate and iodate lowered germination rate of sprouts. There was no effect of the treatments on the amount of chlorophyll a, anthocyanins and UV absorbing compounds. The amount of rutin was the highest in control sprouts. According to physiological measurements, control sprouts and sprouts from treated seeds were not stressed by the treatments.
Modularity of the dorsal and lateral view of the skull in the European ground squirrel
Authors: Klenovšek Tina
Published: August 2023

Modular organization is a general characteristic of biological systems from cellular to organismal level. The mammalian skull is a complex structure that can in general be divided into two functional components, the neurocranium and the viscerocranium. The two-module organisation of the skull of the European ground squirrel Spermophilus citellus (Linnaeus, 1766) has already been confirmed on the ventral cranium, while different studies of integration and modularity of squirrel skulls in general gave mixed results. Studies using 2D geometric morphometrics capture and analyse different views of the skull separately, and often the eventral cranial view is considered as the most suitable. In this study, the hypothesis of the two-module organisation of the S.citellus skull was re-evaluated and confirmed also on the dorsal and lateral cranial view. Nevertheless, the lateral cranium was more integrated than the dorsal cranium. Allometry had almost no effect on the pattern of modularity. This and the previous study of the S. citellus skull modularity show that different cranial views can give different results. Advisably, all three views should be considered also because the lateral view of the skull shows morphological variation in the sagittal plane that is not visible along the frontal plane, when only the ventral and/or dorsal views are considered.
Design of species-specific primers for rapid detection and identification of Candida parapsilosis sensu stricto
Authors: Novak Babič Monika , Gunde-Cimerman Nina
Published: August 2023

Candida species are the cause of approximately two million cases of candidiasis yearly worldwide, and are frequently involved in life-threatening infections. After Candida albicans, the Candida parapsilosis complex is the second most common cause of Candida infections, particularly in patients in intensive care units and in neonates. Contrary to many Candida species, C. parapsilosis sensu stricto is frequently present in water, and on surfaces made of plastic, rubber, and silicone, where it acts as aprimary coloniser for biofilm establishment. Identification methods for the C. parapsilosis complex include culture-dependent methods, MALDI-TOF, and multiplex PCR using ITS region, but remains amongst the most frequently misidentified species, due to the genetic similarity and lack of species-specific primers. In the present study, we developed novel species-specific primers for detection and identification of C. parapsilosis sensu stricto using locus CPAR2_105320, as template for easily accessible and widely used conventional PCR method. Using these primers, we successfully detected and identified C. parapsilosis sensu strictoin pure cultures isolated from clinical specimens and indoor environments. Additionally, this method enables detection of C. parapsilosis sensu stricto in biofilms and tap water samples from which DNA was extracted, and directly from suspensions of washed swab samples. All positive cases showed single clear band with 574 base pairs. Sequencing of the amplicon proved designed primers to be species-specific. In the future, primers can serve as a tool for rapid detection of C. parapsilosis sensustricto in the environment and clinical settings.