bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marginal differences in preimplantation morphokinetics between conventional IVF and ICSI in patients with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A): A sibling oocyte study
Authors: De Munck Neelke , Bayram Aşina , Elkhatib Ibrahim , Abdala Andrea , El-Damen Ahmed , Arnanz Ana , Melado Laura , Lawrenz Barbara , Fatemi Human Mousavi
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the morphokinetic behaviour between conventional IVF and ICSI, in cycles with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A).

Materials

A randomized controlled trial (NCT03708991) was conducted in a private fertility center. Thirty couples with non-male factor infertility were recruited between November 2018 and April 2019. A total of 568 sibling cumulus oocyte complexes were randomly inseminated with conventional IVF and ICSI and cultured in an Embryoscope time-lapse system. The morphokinetic behaviour of IVF/ICSI sibling oocytes was analysed as primary endpoint. As secondary endpoints, morphokinetic parameters that predict blastocysts that will be biopsied, the day of biopsy, gender and euploid outcome was assessed.

Results

When comparing IVF to ICSI, only the time to reach the 2-cell stage (t2) was significantly delayed for IVF embryos: OR: 1.282 [1.020–1.612], p = 0.033. After standardizing for tPNf (ct parameters), only Blast(tStartBlastulation-t2) remained significant: OR: 0.803 [0.648–0.994], p = 0.044. For the analysis of zygotes that will be biopsied on day 5/6 versus zygotes without biopsy, only early morphokinetic parameters were considered. All parameters were different in the multivariate model: ct2: OR: 0.840 [0.709–0.996], p = 0.045; ct6: OR: 0.943 [0.890–0.998], p = 0.043; cc2(t3-t2): OR: 1.148 [1.044–1.263], p = 0.004; cc3(t5-t3): OR: 1.177 [1.107–1.251], p<0.0001. When comparing the development between blastocysts biopsied on day 5 versus day 6, only three morphokinetic parameters were significant: cc2(t3-t2): OR: 1.394 [1.010–1.926], p = 0.044; ctBlastocyst: OR: 0.613 [0.489–0.768], p<0.0001 and ctExpandedBlastocyst: OR: 0.913 [0.868–0.960], p = 0.0004. Multivariate analysis of gender and ploidy did not reveal differences in morphokinetic behaviour.

Conclusion

Minor morphokinetic differences are observed between IVF and ICSI. Early in the development, distinct cleavage patterns are observed between embryos that will be biopsied or not.
Developed meloxicam loaded microparticles for colon targeted delivery: Statistical optimization, physicochemical characterization, and in-vivo toxicity study
Authors: Wasay Syed Abdul , Jan Syed Umer , Akhtar Muhammad , Noreen Sobia , Gul Rahman
Published: April 2022

The study aimed to fabricate and evaluate Meloxicam (MLX) loaded Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) microparticles for colon targeting because MLX is a potent analgesic used in the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with colorectal cancer (CRC). Nevertheless, its efficiency is limited by poor solubility and gastrointestinal tracts (GIT) associated side effects. Seventeen formulations of MLX loaded HPMC microparticles were fabricated by the oil-in-oil (O/O)/ emulsion solvent evaporation (ESE) technique. A 3-factor, 3-level Box Behnken (BBD) statistical design was used to estimate the combined effects of the independent variables on the dependent variables (responses), such as the percent yield (R1), the entrapment efficiency (EE) (R2), mean particle size (R3) and in vitro percentage of cumulative drug release (R4). For physicochemical characterization FTIR, XRD, DSC, and SEM analyses were performed. Biocompatibility and non-toxicity were confirmed by in-vivo acute oral toxicity determination. The percentage yield and EE were 65.75–90.71%, and 70.62–88.37%, respectively. However, the mean particle size was 62.89–284.55 μm, and the in vitro cumulative drug release percentage was 74.25–92.64% for 24 hours. FTIR analysis showed that the composition of the particles was completely compatible, while XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of the pure drug and its transition into an amorphous state after formulation. DSC analysis revealed the thermal stability of the formulations. The SEM analysis showed dense spherical particles. The toxicity study in albino rabbits showed no toxicity and was found biocompatible. The histopathological evaluation showed no signs of altered patterns. Results of this study highlighted a standard colonic drug delivery system with the ability to improve patient adherence and reduce GIT drug-associated side effects in CRC treatment.
Multifunctional farming as successful pathway for the next generation of Thai farmers
Authors: Jansuwan Para , Zander Kerstin K.
Published: April 2022

Young farmers play a significant role in sustaining food security and the communities’ and rural areas’ viability. However, as with many countries, Thailand is facing a decline in the number of young farmers who, if not productive and satisfied with their farm business, are likely to exit farming to take advantage of their increased educational level and off-farm job opportunities. Data were collected by interviewing young farmers in the Prachin Buri province, Thailand, with the aim of assessing their reason for farming in the long-term and the type of farming. Farming decisions can be categorised into three types: full-time profit-oriented farming with a focus on rice production (~53%), full-time multifunctional farming in innovative mixed or organic production systems (~23%), and part-time farming where young farmers work off-farm and farm outside regular working hours (~24%). Using path analysis, we investigated which physical and psychological factors affect young farmers’ decisions to pursue these three farming types. The results show that non-monetary farming’s benefits are as important as monetary benefits. Education, farming and regular off-farm work experience, farm production, market and pest problems, and government support directly affect the farming types. These effects were also mediated by attitudes towards farming and net farming income. Young farmers choosing to pursue multifunctional farming have higher incomes, more often apply sophisticated technologies, and farm more sustainably than those choosing the other types of farming. This indicates that a shift from conventional rice production to more diversified production systems using innovative technologies is needed to sustain farming success and retain young people in the farming sector.
A prospective study of asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection among individuals involved in academic research under limited operations during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Pettifor Audrey , DiPrete Bethany L. , Shook-Sa Bonnie E. , Premkumar Lakshmanane , Kuczynski Kriste , Dittmer Dirk , Aiello Allison , Wallet Shannon , Maile Robert , Tan Joyce , Jadi Ramesh , Pluta Linda , de Silva Aravinda M. , Weber David J. , Kim Min , Seña Arlene C. , Jones Corbin D.
Published: April 2022

Background

Early in the pandemic, transmission risk from asymptomatic infection was unclear, making it imperative to monitor infection in workplace settings. Further, data on SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence within university populations has been limited.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal study of University research employees on campus July-December 2020. We conducted questionnaires on COVID-19 risk factors, RT-PCR testing, and SARS-CoV-2 serology using an in-house spike RBD assay, laboratory-based Spike NTD assay, and standard nucleocapsid platform assay. We estimated prevalence and cumulative incidence of seroconversion with 95% confidence intervals using the inverse of the Kaplan-Meier estimator.

Results

910 individuals were included in this analysis. At baseline, 6.2% (95% CI 4.29–8.19) were seropositive using the spike RBD assay; four (0.4%) were seropositive using the nucleocapsid assay, and 44 (4.8%) using the Spike NTD assay. Cumulative incidence was 3.61% (95% CI: 2.04–5.16). Six asymptomatic individuals had positive RT-PCR results.

Conclusions

Prevalence and incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infections were low; however, differences in target antigens of serological tests provided different estimates. Future research on appropriate methods of serological testing in unvaccinated and vaccinated populations is needed. Frequent RT-PCR testing of asymptomatic individuals is required to detect acute infections, and repeated serosurveys are beneficial for monitoring subclinical infection.
Sharing datasets of the COVID-19 epidemic in the Czech Republic
Authors: Komenda Martin , Jarkovský Jiří , Klimeš Daniel , Panoška Petr , Šanca Ondřej , Gregor Jakub , Mužík Jan , Karolyi Matěj , Májek Ondřej , Blaha Milan , Macková Barbora , Rážová Jarmila , Adámková Věra , Černý Vladimír , Blatný Jan , Dušek Ladislav
Published: April 2022

At the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, providing access to data (properly optimised regarding personal data protection) plays a crucial role in providing the general public and media with up-to-date information. Open datasets also represent one of the means for evaluation of the pandemic on a global level. The primary aim of this paper is to describe the methodological and technical framework for publishing datasets describing characteristics related to the COVID-19 epidemic in the Czech Republic (epidemiology, hospital-based care, vaccination), including the use of these datasets in practice. Practical aspects and experience with data sharing are discussed. As a reaction to the epidemic situation, a new portal COVID-19: Current Situation in the Czech Republic (https://onemocneni-aktualne.mzcr.cz/covid-19) was developed and launched in March 2020 to provide a fully-fledged and trustworthy source of information for the public and media. The portal also contains a section for the publication of (i) public open datasets available for download in CSV and JSON formats and (ii) authorised-access-only section where the authorised persons can (through an online generated token) safely visualise or download regional datasets with aggregated data at the level of the individual municipalities and regions. The data are also provided to the local open data catalogue (covering only open data on healthcare, provided by the Ministry of Health) and to the National Catalogue of Open Data (covering all open data sets, provided by various authorities/publishers, and harversting all data from local catalogues). The datasets have been published in various authentication regimes and widely used by general public, scientists, public authorities and decision-makers. The total number of API calls since its launch in March 2020 to 15 December 2020 exceeded 13 million. The datasets have been adopted as an official and guaranteed source for outputs of third parties, including public authorities, non-governmental organisations, scientists and online news portals. Datasets currently published as open data meet the 3-star open data requirements, which makes them machine-readable and facilitates their further usage without restrictions. This is essential for making the data more easily understandable and usable for data consumers. In conjunction with the strategy of the MH in the field of data opening, additional datasets meeting the already implemented standards will be also released, both on COVID-19 related and unrelated topics.
The FAR protein family of parasitic nematodes
Authors: Parks Sophia C. , Nguyen Susan , Boulanger Martin J. , Dillman Adler R.
Published: April 2022

Fatty acid–and retinol-binding proteins (FARs) belong to a unique family of excreted/secreted proteins (ESPs) found exclusively in nematodes. Much of our understanding of these proteins, however, is limited to their in vitro binding characteristics toward various fatty acids and retinol and has provided little insight into their in vivo functions or mechanisms. Recent research, however, has shown that FARs elicit an immunomodulatory role in plant and animal model systems, likely by sequestering lipids involved in immune signaling. This alludes to the intricate relationship between parasitic nematode effectors and their hosts.
Reversing the design process in the introductory architectural design studio: The exploratory function of sketch modelling
Authors: Yorgancıoğlu Derya , Altınkaya Genel Özlem
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the exploratory potentials of sketch modelling in the introductory architectural design studio. It focused on the course ‘ARCH 102 Architectural Design Studio I’, in which sketch modelling was deployed as a creative problem-solving practice, triggering an exploratory process through thinking and doing. The study adopted the case-study method. Hence, the principal sources of data are student projects and studio tutors’ first-hand observations and reflections. The findings reveal that, along with its iterative and communicative functions, the exploratory nature of sketch modelling helps first-year students overcome design issues in the making of design. The findings lay the groundwork for more systematic studies on reflective learning practices in design education.
Designing prototype rapid test device at qualitative performance to detect residue of tetracycline in chicken carcass
Authors: Lazuardi Mochamad , Hestianah Eka Pramyrtha , Restiadi Tjuk Imam
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim: Human health problems due as a microbial resistance or tumors and cancers because consumption of the carcasses containing residues of tetracycline are main global problems in the context of fight against antimicrobial resistance phenomena. Explanation of the sustainable development goals, particularly point 3, is well recognized that all animal products for human consumption must be safe to live a healthy life. This study aimed to design a prototype of rapid test devices (RTD) based on principles of precipitate to obtain a specific color change after the process of reactions as an indicator to determine tetracycline residues in the carcass.

Materials and Methods: Five samples of tetracycline-containing poultry carcasses using artificial add the tetracycline at pharmaceutics grade were examined using a prototype of a strong reaction solution for tetracycline fixation based on the concept bonded by ion Fe(III) at atom O in position atom C-1 at the ring of tetracycline and ion N+ as the functional branch of tetracycline. RTD detection was evaluated using a yellow color presentation and an absorbance spectrometric technique at a wavelength of 273 nm.

Results: The following chemicals were used to create the best-fixed tetracycline residue: HCl and H2SO4 dissolved in H2O, chromatographic grade of 0.1 N and 0.5 N of HNO3, and 1% Fe (III) Cl. The RTD had a higher limit of detection (LOD) than the ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer.

Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that RTD, as constructed in this study, can be used to detect residue at LOD 44.764 μg/mL during 120 min of exposure through a light-emitting diode at 980 nm wavelength (p<0.05). The necessity for using RTD was because of the apparent limitations of conventional devices.
Effects of Complex Vs. Compound Training on Competitive Throwing Performance
Authors: Thomas Kyriazis , Spyridon Methenitis , Nikolaos Zaras , Angeliki-Nikolleta Stasinaki , Giorgos Karampatsos , Giorgos Georgiadis , Gerasimos Terzis
Published: April 2022

Thomas, K, Spyridon, M, Nikolaos, Z, Angeliki-Nikolleta, S, Giorgos, K, Giorgos, G, and Gerasimos, T. Effects of complex vs. compound training on competitive throwing performance. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2022—The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of complex (CPX; strength and power exercises in pairs) vs. compound (CPD; strength and power exercises in different days) training on competitive track and field throwing performance. Ten well-trained throwers (7 male throwers and 3 female throwers) followed a 34-week periodized training program including 2 preparation periods. During the winter 4-week, precompetition phase, athletes were randomly assigned to CPX or CPD groups, while the opposite assignment was performed during the spring precompetition phase (counterbalanced design). Before and after each training period competitive track and field throwing performance, shot put throws, snatch, squat and bench press 1 repetition maximum (1RM), vertical jumps, rate of force development (RFD), and body composition were evaluated. Competitive track and field throwing performance increased significantly by 5.4 ± 2.9% and 1.9 ± 1.7%, after CPX and CPD, respectively, with a significant difference between groups (p < 0.001). Shot put throws and 1RM strength in bench press increased similarly after both programs (p < 0.05), but vertical jumps increased only after CPX training. CPX induced greater increases in 1RM strength in snatch and squat, RFD, and lean body mass compared with CPD (p < 0.005). The linear combination of training-induced changes in RFD 150ms, 1RM in squat, snatch, and total lean mass explained the 80% of the percentage increase in competitive track and field throwing performance (p = 0.007). These results suggest that 4 weeks of CPX training during the precompetition period induce greater increases in competitive track and field throwing performance, 1RM strength, power, and RFD compared with CPD training.
Single cell variability of CRISPR‐Cas interference and adaptation
Authors: McKenzie Rebecca E , Keizer Emma M , Vink Jochem N A , van Lopik Jasper , Büke Ferhat , Kalkman Vera , Fleck Christian , Tans Sander J , Brouns Stan J J
Published: April 2022

While CRISPR‐Cas defence mechanisms have been studied on a population level, their temporal dynamics and variability in individual cells have remained unknown. Using a microfluidic device, time‐lapse microscopy and mathematical modelling, we studied invader clearance in Escherichia coli across multiple generations. We observed that CRISPR interference is fast with a narrow distribution of clearance times. In contrast, for invaders with escaping PAM mutations we found large cell‐to‐cell variability, which originates from primed CRISPR adaptation. Faster growth and cell division and higher levels of Cascade increase the chance of clearance by interference, while slower growth is associated with increased chances of clearance by priming. Our findings suggest that Cascade binding to the mutated invader DNA, rather than spacer integration, is the main source of priming heterogeneity. The highly stochastic nature of primed CRISPR adaptation implies that only subpopulations of bacteria are able to respond quickly to invading threats. We conjecture that CRISPR‐Cas dynamics and heterogeneity at the cellular level are crucial to understanding the strategy of bacteria in their competition with other species and phages.
Paminklai Lietuvoje: valstybės tapatybės konstravimas
Authors:   , Rimaitė Viktorija
Published: April 2022

Monuments in Lihuania: shaping state identity
Ukrainian educational (school and vocational) terminography: А retrospective and perspective
Authors:   V. Dokuchaіev Kharkiv National Agrarian University, Petrova Tetiana
Published: April 2022

This article focuses on the achievements and prospects of the Ukrainian educational terminography, in particular school and vocational branches and on their criticism. The 1920s and 1930s, 1990s, and early 21st century as most productive period for educational terminography development, and school terminography gained more scope and significant achievements, in comparison to professional and technical terminography. The author assumes that the recognition of the Ukrainian educational terminography could become a powerful tool of the Ukrainian patriotic education and bring the generalized understanding of the methodology of high-quality terminological dictionary compiling in accordance with the current level of education and science and user needs. Its recognition will benefit the developing a univ ersal model of educational terminology dictionary and creating a bibliographic index of educational terminographic sources. The educational terminographic criticism prospects provide the following: 1) its recognition as an individual field of the Ukrainian terminographic criticism; 2) stimulating the development of the school, vocational, and university terminographic criticism; 3) developing a unified algorithm for analyzing an educational terminological dictionary; 4) creating a periodical to collect critical publications on educational dictionaries; 5) ordering the bibliographic indexing of reviews on the reference sources analyzed. Keywords: educational terminography, educational terminographic criticism, terminological dictionary, review
Consumo de Helecho Macho (Pteridium caudatum) e inocuidad láctea en bovinos de Coto-Brus, Puntarenas
Authors: Burgos-Álvarez Daniela , Chacón-Villalobos Alejandro , Villalobos-Villalobos Luis A.
Published: April 2022

Los compuestos antinutricionales contenidos en plantas pueden asociarse con una afectación a través del consumo de sus productos derivados, tanto en la salud animal como en la humana. El ptaquilósido presente en helechos Pteridium caudatum (L.) Maxon es un ejemplo. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar evidencia de consumo de Pteridium por bovinos lecheros y cuantificar el contenido de ptaquilósido presente en leche. Se evaluaron dos fincas lecheras ubicadas en Coto Brus, Puntarenas, entre enero y julio de 2019. Los hatos en ambas fincas contaban con patrón multirracial predominante con cruces de raza Holstein, Jersey y Simbrah. Se determinó una producción de biomasa en los potreros de pastoreo de 1,4-2,3 ton MS/ha para Brachiaria humidicola  y 1,7-1,9 ton MS/ha de forraje Brachiaria brizantha; con suelos de tipo andisol un pH de 6,3; acidez de 0,13 cmol(+)/L  y 0,15 cmol(+)/L; CICE de 12,52 cmol(+)/L y 9,48 cmol(+)/L; y con un porcentaje de cobertura del helecho Pteridium caudatum (L) Maxon de 15-19% y 13-15%, en las fincas 1 y 2 respectivamente. En ambas fincas, el ganado mostró una preferencia de consumo del helecho en estados fenológicos tempranos, etapas en las que los contenidos de ptaquilósido son mayores (253-1138 mg/Kg/MS), expresados como pterosina B. El contenido de ptaquilósido encontrado en leche (0,39-0,91 mg/L) en este estudio, es evidencia indirecta del consumo por parte de los animales. La presencia de Pteridium  en potreros pastoreados por vacas en producción debe controlarse para evitar su potencial transferencia a productos lácteos.
Sustitución de Cratylia argentea y Erythrina poepiggiana por guineo cuadrado en ensilados
Authors: Montero-Durán Eduardo , Rojas-Bourrillon Augusto , López-Herrera Michael
Published: April 2022

El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar el efecto de la adición del guineo cuadrado sobre la calidad nutricional y fermentativa de ensilajes de Cratylia argentea y Erythrina poepiggiana. El estudio se llevó a cabo en Upala, Costa Rica, entre abril y noviembre de 2016. Se utilizó un diseño factorial completamente aleatorizado con 4 niveles de guineo cuadrado y 2 especies de leguminosas. Los ensilajes se realizaron en bolsas plásticas de 5 kg y se almacenaron durante 50 días. Al momento de la apertura, se midieron características bromatológicas de los ensilajes, así como los indicadores de fermentación. Se detectó que el guineo cuadrado afecta los indicadores fermentativos con valores de pH entre 4.3-4.8 y de lactato 1,61-3,91% de la MS. De la misma manera, el guineo cuadrado afecta la composición nutricional con concentraciones de proteína cruda, carbohidratos no fibrosos y fibra detergente neutro, que oscilaron entre 9,40-16,66; 21,78-57,88 y 21,15-48,55% de la MS, respectivamente. El contenido de energía se incrementó conforme aumentó la cantidad de guineo cuadrado en la mezcla, la energía de los ensilados fluctuó entre 1,38-1,73 Mcal/kg MS. En conclusión, todas las mezclas con guineo cuadrado presentaron características adecuadas para ser utilizadas como suplemento de rumiantes, aunque se obtuvieron los mejores resultados en los niveles de 15 y 30%.
STATE AND CHALLENGES FOR THE DIGITALIZATION OF AGRICULTURAL IN BULGARIA
Authors: Kostadinova N.
Published: April 2022

Digital agriculture in Bulgaria began its development in the last decade with the introduction of new technologies such as ground sensors, satellite imagery, GPS receivers in agricultural machinery and more. There are a number of companies in the country that create software products and applications aimed at the agricultural sector and especially at specific customers and according to their requierments. Software companies create web-based products and mobile applications for information visualization in order to control the work done and track activities on a farm.
One of the priorities for the new programming period of the EU CAP is to improve the dissemination of knowledge, innovation and digitalisation in agriculture and rural areas, which will significantly contribute to increasing the competitiveness of the agricultural sector and will ensure a higher return on investment.
The aim of this study is to examine the state and challenges of digitalization of the agricultural sector in Bulgaria.
To achieve this goal, the following tasks are solved: to analyze the state of digitalization in Bulgarian agriculture; to identify trends in this area; to identify problems and challenges for the development of the agricultural sector in this direction.
Practical ultra-high-strength concrete for precast concrete applications
Authors: Al Mohammedi Ahmed , Murray Cameron D. , Dang Canh N. , Hale W. Micah
Published: April 2022

This paper focuses on developing ultra-high-strength concrete (UHSC) with mechanical properties compara­ble to those of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and with production procedures similar to those used for high-strength concrete. A concrete mixture was developed to achieve a compressive strength of 17 ksi (117 MPa) at 28 days without using silica fume and with a slump flow as high as 35 in. (889 mm). Another concrete mixture with compressive strength of 20 ksi (138 MPa) was designed using only 130 lb/yd3 (77.1 kg/m3) of silica fume. In addition to these two mixtures, a UHPC mixture was also designed with a compressive strength of 24 ksi (165 MPa). Laboratory tests were conducted to investi­gate predictions of modulus of elasticity, flexural strength, creep, and shrinkage for the developed mixtures. This paper demonstrates that using UHSC and 0.7 in. (18 mm) diameter strands will produce adequate flexural strength to design 300 ft (91.4 m) long prestressed concrete I-girders that have service stresses within safe limits
Serum fetuin-A level is independent of Helicobacter pylori postinfection status in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Márkus Bernadett , Temesszentandrási György , Vörös Krisztián , Jakab László , Fekete Béla , Farkas Henriette , Prohászka Zoltán , Masszi Tamás , Kalabay László
Published: April 2022

Helicobacter pylori is a common pathogen causing gastric inflammation and malignancy. Fetuin-A is a multifunctional protein that is involved in the regulation of calcification, insulin resistance and inflammation. Reports on serum levels of fetuin-A in acute H. pylori infection are contradictory. We intended to see whether H. pylori post-infection status has a long-term effect on serum fetuin-A levels in a well-characterized series of systemic lupus erythematosus cases.

In this cross-sectional study 117 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus were enrolled. Helicobacter infection status and serum fetuin-A concentration were determined by ELISA and radial immunodiffusion, respectively. H. pylori positive patients had higher serum fetuin-A concentration than negative ones: 517 (456–603) vs. 476 (408–544) mg L−1, median (25–75% percentiles), P = 0.020. No other parameters differed between these groups. During univariate regression analysis fetuin-A levels were associated with Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), White blood cell count (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum total protein, albumin, and the SLEDAI index at the time of diagnosis but only serum albumin remained a significant determinant in multivariate regression study.
Molecular diversity and genetic relationships between Carpinus betulus and C. orientalis with Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) regions
Authors: Riahee A. , Assadi M. , Zare H. , Mehregan I.
Published: April 2022

A successful management and preservation of the natural populations depend on accurate assessment of genetic diversity. Knowing the genetic diversity within a population is important for choosing the conservation strategies for the species. The genus Carpinus belonging to Coryloideae, Betulaceae, has significant economic and ornamental importance. Determination of the taxa in the genus Carpinus in Iran is one of the most controversial issues among the researchers; for example, we can see this claim in the recent botanical literatures such as Sabeti and Browicz. However, two good species namely C. betulus L. and C. orientalis Mill. are the main species in Iran, adjacent regions and also in Europe. In general, taxonomic and biosystematics studies of the Carpinus are not known in Iran, moreover, in few cases, inter-specific hybrids and intermediate forms are recognised. A detailed molecular (ISSR) study of the Carpinus is done here with the following objectives: 1) to delimitate the species; 2) to carry out population genetic study and produce information on genetic structure, genetic variability within each population in Carpinus betulus and C. orientalis. In present study, 85 randomly collected plants from 17 geographical populations of two Carpinus species were considered. Our results indicated that ISSR markers can be used as a reliable and informative technique for evaluation of genetic diversity and relationships among Carpinus species.
Isolectotype of Eustichia Africana (Eustichiaceae, Dicranales) deposited in LW confirms the species status of African endemic species
Authors: Khmil T. S. , Tasenkevich L. O. , Kondratyuk S. Y.
Published: April 2022

An isolectotype specimen of Eustichia africana deposited in the herbarium LW (Lviv, Ukraine) is discussed and illustrated here. The LW isolectotype of Eustichia africana is found to be the most complete (largest in terms of the number of plant fragments) original collection among initial syntypes (now the lectotype at PRE and numerous isolectotypes) of this taxon distributed in Rehmann’s exsiccatae (and kept in W, PC, PRE, etc). A detailed description and illustration of the LW isolectotype specimen are provided. The special investigation of LW specimens of Fissidens eustichium found to confirm species status of Eustichia africana, which is different from E. longirostris (Brid.) Brid. to which sometimes E. africana was included as synonym since 1923 (while Fissidens eustichium Rehmann nom. nud. was included as synonym [to the latter taxon (= E. longirostris)] since 1894). Thus, the name and the accepted status of species Eustichia africana are resurrected.
Range extension and review of the conservation status of the freshwater mussel Alasmidonta mccordi Athearn, 1964 (Bivalvia, Unionidae) in the Coosa River drainage of Alabama and Georgia
Authors: Williams James D. , Wisniewski Jason M. , Dinkins Gerald R.
Published: April 2022

The Coosa Elktoe, Alasmidonta mccordi Athearn, 1964, was previously known only from the type specimen collected in the Coosa River, St. Clair County, Alabama. Based on the discovery of five previously misidentified specimens in three museum lots, we extend the distribution of A. mccordi into the Etowah and Conasauga Rivers, tributaries of the Coosa River in northwest Georgia. Shell morphology of these museum specimens compare favorably with the only known specimen of the species. The conservation status of A. mccordi is examined in light of its wider historical distribution in the Coosa River drainage. We include recommendations for future research to detect extant populations of this presumed extinct freshwater mussel.
Los hombres del obispo: vicarios y jueces eclesiásticos regionales. Michoacán, 1633-1666
Authors: Traslosheros Jorge-E.
Published: April 2022

En este artículo estudiaremos al juez delegado regional de la Iglesia Católica llamado foráneo o vicario juez eclesiástico. Lo haremos a través de las actuaciones de tres sacerdotes michoacanos, representantes del clero medio en el segundo tercio del siglo XVII: Pedro Gutiérrez Rangel, Diego Correa Gudiño y Juan Pardo de Quesada. Dividimos el estudio en cuatro apartados: una introducción en que presentamos el problema y sus fuentes; una breve caracterización según la doctrina y el Derecho canónico; la trayectoria de nuestros personajes y; una invitación a la reflexión. Como veremos, estos jueces jugaron un papel estratégico en la acción pastoral y judicial de los obispos.
Programa visual de la capilla del Espíritu Santo en la Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba
Authors: Jordano-Barbudo Mª-Ángeles
Published: April 2022

En el ambiente propiciado por la Contrarreforma y el Humanismo, la capilla del Espíritu Santo de la Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba, erigida por los obispos y arcedianos Simancas a partir de 1568, alberga una decoración y un conjunto de obras artísticas que revelan la existencia de un programa visual que respondía plenamente al interés por manifestar su fama y poder, el prestigio de su apellido y su protagonismo como valedores de la fe cristiana a la luz de las resoluciones dogmáticas adoptadas en el Concilio de Trento, especialmente aquellas relacionadas con la veneración de las reliquias y los sacramentos de la eucaristía y el bautismo.
Macrophages in epicardial adipose tissue and serum NT-proBNP in patients with stable coronary artery disease
Authors: Kologrivova I. V. , Suslova T. E. , Koshelskaya O. A. , Rebenkova M. S. , Kharitonova O. A. , Dymbrylova O. N. , Andreev S. L.
Published: April 2022

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is widely considered a chronic inflammatory disorder, and dysfunction of epicardial adipose tissue could be an important source of the inflammation. Amino-terminal fragment of pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a known marker of cardiovascular disorders of cardiac origin. Recent studies show that inflammatory stimuli may influence its secretion. Our purpose was to evaluate NT-proBNP serum concentration in relation to immune cell ratios in epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), and cytokine levels in the patients with stable CAD. Patients with stable CAD and heart failure classified into classes II–III, according to the New York Heart Association (NYHA) scale, scheduled for the coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, were recruited into the study (n = 10; 59.5 (53.0-65.0) y. o.; 50% males). The EAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) specimens were harvested in the course of CABG surgery. Immunostaining with anti-CD68, anti-CD45, antiIL-1β and anti-TNFα monoclonal antibodies was performed to evaluate cell composition by differential counts per ten fields (400 magnification). Fasting venous blood was obtained from patients before CABG. Blood was centrifuged at 1500g, aliquots were collected and stored frozen at -40 °С until final analysis. Concentrations of NT-proBNP, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNFα were determined in serum samples by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We have found increased production of IL-1β and TNFα cytokines in EAT compared to SAT. Concentrations of NT-proBNP exceeded 125 pg/ml in 4 patients, and correlations between the CD68+macrophage counts in both EAT and SAT samples (rs= 0.762; p = 0.010 and rs= 0.835; p = 0.003, respectively). NT-proBNP levels showed positive relations with CD45+leukocyte counts (rs= 0.799; p = 0.006), and with IL-1β+cell numbers (rs= 0.705; p = 0.023) in EAT samples only. As for the serum biomarkers, NT-proBNP levels showed negative correlation with fasting glucose levels (rs= -0.684; p = 0.029), and positive correlation with serum IL-6 concentrations (rs= 0.891; p = 0.001). Increased serum concentrations of NT-proBNP in CAD patients correlate with accumulation of macrophages in EAT, which is associated with increased production of IL-1β in EAT and correlates with some metabolic parameters.
Features of humoral immunity after COVID-19
Authors: Semenova E. V. , Pavliuk V. V. , Uvarova M. A. , Ivanov A. V.
Published: April 2022

At the present time, studying humoral immunity to the new coronavirus infection is among the most important tasks. The COVID-19 infection induces a protective pool of specific antibodies determining severity and duration of such immune protection after convalescence. The antibody testing is also necessary for assessing efficiency of anti-COVID vaccines in order to defeat the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Despite enormous interest of scientific community in this problem seen in the literature, there is still a lack for longitudinal observations of immunological status (more than 6 months) in the patients who have undergone COVID-19. The aim of this study is a long-term monitoring (9-14 months) of development and extinction of immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection using quantitative assessment of IgA and IgG levels in peripheral blood of the patients who had COVID-19 in anamnesis. Monitoring of anti-SARS-CoV-2 levels over time has demonstrated significant individual variability, and made it possible to divide the study participants into three groups, according to characteristic features of humoral immunity after documented COVID-19. The study describes characteristic features of humoral immune response for each of these groups. The first group (30% of the study group) exhibited classical pattern of antibody response to viral infection. The second group (40% of study participants) presented with high plasma IgA levels, and their significant excess (about 2 times) over IgG levels throughout the observation period. The third group (30% of study participants), apparently comprised the subjects with increased humoral immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Their plasma antibodies remain at high levels for at least 9-10 months after the onset of infection. The data obtained confirm the pattern of plasma IgA which is not quite typical to viral infections in dynamics after a sufficiently long time period after the disease in most study participants (2nd and 3rd groups; 70% of all volunteers who have recovered from COVID-19) and suggests an important role of this immunoglobulin against SARS-CoV-2 infection. The specific responses of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG are very similar to behavior of such antibodies in other viral infections including contacts with coronaviruses from earlier generations. Humoral immunity against SARS-CoV-2 may persist for more than 6 months, thus supporting an assumption that the naturally infected patients are able to resist re-infection for a long time.
The Place Name Gördchoy (‘Red Mount’) in the Folklore Topography of the Vishera River Basin
Authors:   Institute of Language, Literature and History, Komi Scientific Center of the Ural Branch of the RAS, Panyukov Anatoly V.
Published: April 2022

Seeing folklore topography as an ensemble of all topographic knowledge reflected in local folklore, the author considers the place name Gördchoy that is very revealing of the Vishera river basin folklore tradition. Genetically, the Vishera area is related to Vymskaya culture of the Permians of Vychegda. During the formation of the Vishera local ethnographic group, all its traditional infrastructures (economic, cultural, historical, religious, etc.) were focused on the upper reaches of the Vychegda basin. For a long time, there was no settled population in Upper and Middle Vychegda. In the 16th century, when first settlers came to the Upper Vychegda, the life of the Vishera people gradually refocused there. At that time, the main “entry point” to the territory of the Vishera basin was the mouth of this river and this is exactly where the toponym Gördchoy ‘Red Mountain’ was localized. Due to the emphasis on spatial and color characteristics, this toponym became a marker of the “Vishera” land border and acquired a significant folklore repertoire. Apart from that, the author considers numerous versions explaining the so-called Vishera phenomenon — the absence of rats in the Vishera basin. In this regard, he tackles both mythological plots (about the local sorcerer Tuve who cursed rats and legends about Stefan of Perm) and “anti-mythological,” scientifically grounded versions. The author shows that Gördchoy, regarded as a sacred border, also appears in local folklore as a “haunted” place. Due to the repeated overlapping of narratives that are somehow related to this object, the folklore topography of Vishera developed another layer in which Gördchoy is a local center possessed by evil spirits. After the construction of a new highway, the Gördchoy tract lost its border function for the Vishera territory and began to be perceived as a folklore image with blurred topographic coordinates.
A Cognitive Approach in Onomastics: Some Notes on Metaphorical Place-Names
Authors:   University of Debrecen, Reszegi Katalin
Published: April 2022

In the framework of cognitive linguistics, metaphor is considered as a general cognitive mechanism that plays a fundamental role in human thinking and understanding, in the creation of our social, cultural, and psychological reality, while also impacting our language use. One of its special types, the image metaphor, also appears in name-giving and serves as the basis of a specific toponym type. With reference primarily to Hungarian toponymic corpus and, sporadically, to other languages, this paper provides a brief description of the mechanism of image metaphor and an overview of typical target concepts and source domains of metaphorical toponyms and of the features of the geographical objects that constitute the basis for metaphorical mappings. It is shown that metaphorical naming may be based on transonymization and involve enantiosemy that helps create irony. The fact that metaphorical place-names are most frequently documented when collecting unofficial toponymy has a significant impact on their status in onomastic research. Being most often microtoponyms, metaphorical place-names display clear quantitative variation from one area to another, which can be explained by the weight the metaphorical naming patterns have among the speakers living in different regions, which, in turn, may influence their readiness to use those or similar patterns for naming new objects. The author also suggests that despite their numerical scarcity in historical sources, metaphorical toponyms constitute a long-standing ancient class of names, and outlines some perspectives for the further study.
Incidência e mortalidade pelos principais tipos de câncer no município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, entre os anos de 2008 e 2016
Authors: Oliveira Jânia Cristiane de Souza , Castelo Lucas Matos , Soares Mariana Rosa , Magalhães Amanda Silva , Eustáquio Danielle Martins da Costa , Navarro-Silva Jacqueline Pimenta , Souza Bárbara da Silva Nalin de , Galvão Noemi Dreyer , Andrade Amanda Cristina de Souza
Published: April 2022

RESUMO: Objetivo: Analisar a tendência temporal das taxas de incidência e mortalidade por câncer de próstata, de mama, colorretal, de pulmão, do colo de útero, de estômago e de laringe entre residentes no município de Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, entre 2008 e 2016. Métodos: Estudo de séries temporais com informações do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade e do Registro de Câncer de Base Populacional. Foram calculadas, por sexo, a distribuição proporcional dos casos novos e óbitos por faixa etária e as taxas de incidência e mortalidade por câncer padronizadas pela população mundial. Foi empregada a regressão linear, e estimou-se a variação percentual anual (VPA). Resultados: No sexo masculino, a maioria dos casos novos e óbitos, para os principais tipos de câncer, ocorreu entre aqueles com 50 anos ou mais, e a taxa de incidência de câncer de próstata apresentou tendência de redução no período (VPA=-4,33%). Para o sexo feminino, a proporção de casos novos e óbitos, por câncer de mama e colo de útero, foi mais frequente entre mulheres com 50 anos ou menos, e câncer de pulmão, estômago e colorretal mais comuns entre as mulheres com 60 anos ou mais. A tendência da taxa de incidência de câncer de mama foi crescente (VPA=3,60%). Para ambos os sexos, a taxa de mortalidade apresentou estabilidade. Conclusão: A tendência da taxa de incidência variou entre os sexos, foi observado aumento para câncer de mama entre mulheres e viu-se redução para câncer de próstata entre homens. A taxa de mortalidade para os principais tipos de câncer apresentou estabilidade.
Assessment of the performances and reactions of quaternary LC2–slag cement
Authors: Wang Han , Hou Pengkun , Adu-Amankwah Samuel , Li Qinfei , Wang Penggang , Zhou Xiangming , Cheng Xin
Published: April 2022

The combined use of calcined clay and limestone (LC2) with slag cement can ease the promotion of a clay-type binder and elongate the use of traditionally used slag. Results showed that addition of 22–39% LC2 can enhance the compressive strength of slag cement concrete by 26, 86, 39 and 24% at 3, 7, 28 and 90 days, respectively. Quantitative X-ray radiation diffractometry (QXRD), thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), calorimetry and thermodynamic modelling have been used to reveal the individual role of each constituent in the quaternary blend. Results showed that the degree of hydration of slag cement can be increased by LC2, and calcined clay was understood to be the main contributing factor owing to the pozzolanic reactivity and filler effect. Limestone can increase the reaction degree of slag owing to the generation of hydrated mono-/hemi-carboaluminate (Mc/Hc). A synergistic effect of slag and limestone can contribute to the later performance in quaternary LC2–slag cement.
Eddy current and magnetic evaluation of nanostructured iron–cobalt produced by ball-milling
Authors: Younes Abderrahmane , Kherrouba Nabil
Published: April 2022

The nanocrystalline iron (Fe)–cobalt (Co) alloy exhibits significant properties compared with a conventional material of the same concentration due to the impact of the crystal size. Nanocrystalline FeCo was synthesized from elementary iron and cobalt powdered materials using a planetary ball mill. The complete formation of the iron–cobalt solid solution was observed after 10 h of grinding, and the crystal size reached 15 nm with a grinding time of 40 h. This research aims to investigate the electromagnetic properties of the iron–cobalt nanocrystalline system. Structural and morphological evaluations were carried out using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The change in electromagnetic behavior was analyzed by using the eddy current technique, which confirms that the nanostructural state can be verified by using the impedance spectrum. The magnetic results found by the vibrating-sample magnetometry measurements confirm those found by the eddy current tests.