bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of African Swine Fever Virus Isolated from Domestic Pigs and Wild Boars in the Russian Federation and South Ossetia
Authors: Vlasov Mikhail , Imatdinov Almaz , Titov Ilya , Vasković Nikola , Lyska Valentina , Sevskikh Timofey , Sybgatullova Adylia , Pivova Elena , Morgunov Sergey , Balyshev Vladimir
Published: May 2020

The article presents the results of a comparative study of the biological, molecular and genetic characteristics of African swine fever virus (ASFV) isolates, obtained from domestic pigs and wild boars in the Russian Federation and South Ossetia from 2016 to 2018. The studied isolates caused the death of pigs manifesting, as a rule, signs of an acute or subacute form of the disease when using various methods of infection including intramuscular, direct contact, intranasal and oral routes. The virus was hemadsorbing, belonging to serotype 8 and genotype II, and accumulated in the blood with a titer of 6.5 to 7.5 lg HAU50/cm3. The ASFV isolates circulating in the central region of Russia were found to have an insertion of 10 base pairs in the intergenic region I73R/I329L. However, the ASFV isolated in the Irkutsk region and South Ossetia, as well as Georgia 2007/1 (FR682468.1), lacked this insertion.
The Effects of a Phytogenic Additive on the Histomorphometric Characteristics of the Intestines in Weaned Pigs with a Subclinical Natural Infection with Lawsonia intracellularis
Authors: Drašković Vladimir , Stanimirović Zoran , Glišić Milica , Bošnjak-Neumuller Jasna , Teodorović Radislava , Teodorović Vlado , Kukolj Vladimir
Published: May 2020

Proliferative enteropathy, also known as proliferative ileitis, is considered to be one of the most economically important diseases in pig production worldwide. The estimated losses per affected growing pig usually range from US $1 to $5. The disease is caused by Lawsonia intracellularis, a Gram-negative, obligately intracellular bacterium. Control of the disease can be achieved with the use of vaccines or antibiotics. Recently there has been an increase in the efforts in the control of certain pathologies of the digestive system with phytogenic additives. The aim of this work was to assess the effects of a phytogenic additive on the histomorphometric characteristics of the intestines in weaned pigs with a subclinical infection with L. intracellularis acquired spontaneously. Histomorphometry analysis showed that crypt depth was significantly shorter (P<0.05), and the villus-height-to-crypt-depth ratio (P<0.05) significantly greater in the treatment group than the control. This improvement in the histological parameters of the intestine, considered to be indicators of its health, proved the positive effect of the tested additive on the digestive system in pigs.
Achievements in Micromagnetic Techniques of Steel Plastic Stage Evaluation
Authors: de Campos M. F.
Published: May 2020

The investigation of plastic deformation and residual stress by non-destructive methods is a subject of large relevance for the industry. In this article, the difference between plastic and elastic deformation is discussed, as well as their effects on magnetic measurements, as hysteresis curve and Magnetic Barkhausen Noise. The residual stress data can be obtained with magnetic measurements and also by the hole drilling method and x-ray diffraction measurements. The residual stress level obtained by these three different methods is different, because these three techniques evaluate the sample in different depths. Effects of crystallographic texture on residual stress are also discussed. The magnetoelastic term should be included in micromagnetic methods for residual stress evaluation. It is discussed how the micromagnetic energy Hamiltonian should be expressed in order to evaluate elastic deformation. Plastic deformation can be accounted in micromagnetic models as a term that increases the coercive field in soft magnetic materials as the steels are.
Effect of Sprint Training Exercise, Shuttle Run and Prevention on Base Softball Running Speed Among High School Students
Authors: Fathoni Amirudin , Rachman Hari Amirullah
Published: May 2020

This study aims to determine the differences and to achieve better effect in the sprint training, shuttle run and agility on base of running speed of athletes softball. This study uses an experimental method with a 2×2 factorial design. Participants in this research were 42 male athletes (mean age = 16.88; SD = 1.31), Indonesian high school students. The instruments of this study were the base running test and reactive agility testing protocols. Analysis of the data is analysis of variance (ANOVA) of two pathways at a significant level α = 0.05. The results of the study are as follows: exercise sprint training give better effect to the results of base running extracurricular softball, as evidenced by the value of p = 0.036 < 0.05. Participants who have high agility level give a better effect than participants who have low agility level on the results of softball extracurricular base running, as evidenced by the value of p = 0,000 < 0.05. There is no interaction between the training model and agility on the results of softball extracurricular base running, which is evident from the value of p = 0.634 > 0.05. This research contributes to the field of softball sports, especially in creating an appropriate training program to increase the speed of base running in male students by using sprint training so that results are more effective.
The Level of Community Cohesiveness Under Psychological Pressure and Control Center for Emerging Football Players U17
Authors: Benrabah Kheiredine , Bennadja Mohamed , Fayçal Kharoubi Mohamed
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study is to know the level the group cohesiveness and the type of relationship between it and the psychological pressure and control center for emerging footballers under the 17 years. The descriptive approach of the study was based on a sample of 70 young footballers between the ages of 15 – 17 years of the professional Algerian championship who are still studying. The measurement of cohesiveness of the group, consisting of 34 phrases divided into four dimensions, was used on 5 dimensions, and on the scale of the center control the internal and external consists of 20 phrases. We found an average level of group cohesiveness in all dimensions and in the total score of the group cohesiveness scale with mean and standard deviation estimated at (118.5 ± 13.13), high level of psychological stress and total degree of psychological stress with mean and standard deviation of 163.38 ± 10.67). The average level in the remote control center and high in the external control center, there is a statistically significant correlation between group cohesiveness and psychological stress, and a statistically significant correlation between the cohesiveness of the group and both the internal control center and the external control center. The psychological pressures negatively affect the cohesiveness of the group while the control center with its both sides the internal and external does not affect the cohesiveness of the group.
Explosive Strength of Lower Limbs in 10 – 12 Years Old Athletes of Individual Sports
Authors: Leütterová Daniela , Tomková Petra , Dzugas Dalibor , Kačúr Peter , Gonzalez Pablo Prieto
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to determine the levels of lower limb explosive strength of girls in different sport specialization. The sample consisted of 24 girls in aerobic gymnastics (n = 12) and athletic (n = 12) aged 10 to 12 years. To assess the levels of girls’ lower limbs explosive strength, we administered the following tests: countermovement jump test, countermovement jump with free arms test, squat jump test, 10-seconds repetitive jumping test. Testing sessions took place in September 2019. To obtain data about the levels of lower limbs explosive strength, we recorded step height (cm) and duration of the flight phase (s). Data about the lower limbs explosive strength were collected using the Optogait system for optical detection. We applied basic statistical characteristics, namely Student’s t-test and multivariate linear regression. There were no significant differences between girls in aerobic gymnastics and athletics. We recorded better test results in the group of girl’s athletes in the countermovement jump, countermovement jump with free arms and squat jump. In the group of girl’s involved in aerobic gymnastics, we recorded better results in the 10-second repetitive vertical jumping and vertical jump strength. According to the collected data, we may conclude that the training process of the selected girls in terms of explosive strength development is significantly different. Girls involved in aerobic gymnastics showed a higher level of performance in the 10-second vertical jump, which results from the structure of sport specificity.
The Effect of Training Methods and Eye-Foot Coordination on Dribbling Abilities in Students Aged 12 – 13 Years
Authors: Armando David , Rahman Hari Amirullah
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to examine: (1) the difference in the effect of the method of dribbling sprinting and sprint interval training on the ability of dribbling; (2) the difference in influence between high-eye coordination and low-foot coordination on the ability of dribbling; and (3) the interaction between training methods and eye-foot coordination on dribbling skills. Participants in this study were 37 soccer students aged 12 – 13 years (M = 12.38; SD = 0.49). This research method is an experiment with a 2×2 factorial design. The instrument for measuring ankle coordination is the Soccer Wall Test and for measuring the ability of dribbling is the Short Dribbling Test. The data analysis technique used is two-way ANOVA at the significance level α = 0.05. The results of the study are as follows. (1) There is a significant difference in effect between the method of acceleration dribbling and interval running training on dribbling ability, as evidenced by the value of F = 14,032; p value = 0.002 < 0.05. (2) There is a significant difference in the effect of high eye-foot coordination ability and low-foot eye coordination on dribbling ability, as evidenced by the value of F = 27,685; p value = 0,000 <0.05. (3) There is a significant interaction between the training methods (acceleration and interval running dribbling exercises) and eye-foot coordination (high and low) on the dribbling ability of students aged 12-13 years, as evidenced by the value of F = 21,780 and the p value = 0,000 <0.05.
Comparison between Commercial and Nano NPK in Presence of Nano Zeolite on Sage Plant Yield and its Components under Water Stress
Authors: Mahmoud Abdel Wahab M. , Swaefy Hend M.
Published: May 2020

The lucrative approach of nanotechnology and it´s utilizing in the agricultural sector is prospective. Based on this fact a field trial was done through 2018 and 2019 seasons to scrutinize the consequence of nano N, P and K elements application individual or in combination and nano zeolite loaded nitrogen or not on a sage plant grown under water stress compared to the commercial NPK fertilisers at new reclaimed land. Nano NPK elements were prepared from their precursor as potassium persulfate (K2S2O8), calcium phosphate (Ca (H2PO4)2·H2O) and salt NH4NO3, urea (CO (NH2)2), while nano zeolite was hydrothermally synthesized. Water stress was applied via drip irrigation with 15 days intervals. The data revealed that, nanofertilisers and nano-zeolites had a superior effects on the plant itself under stress conditions with concern on nano-zeolite loaded nitrogen and nano-NPK mixture as well which boosted vegetative growth (plant height, branches number, yield fresh weight, health index, herb fresh and dry weight, leaf area and oil yield), also improved photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, CO2 concentration, water use efficiency and relative water content. The chemical composition (plant pigments, total carbohydrates, total phenolic, tannin, total flavonoids, oil constituents, macro and micro-elements) with indigenous hormones (gibberellic acid GA3 and abscisic acid ABA) and antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase and superoxide dismutase) were also positively affected. The outcomes of current study emphasis global warning about chemical fertilisers pollution, particularly in new reclaimed areas and safety production of medicinal and aromatic plants.
Molecular-Genetic Diagnostics of Angelman Syndrome – The Bulgarian Experience
Authors: Georgieva B. , Atemin S. , Todorova A. , Todorov T. , Miteva A. , Avdjieva-Tzavella D. , Mitev V.
Published: May 2020

Objective: The aim of the study was to determine the molecular mechanisms of mutagenesis in Bulgarian patients with Angelman syndrome (AS). AS is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder caused by loss of expression in brain of the maternally inherited UBE3A gene as a result of various 15q11.2-q13 alterations.

Material and Methods: In total 24 patients (11 boys, 13 girls) from 22 unrelated families with suspected clinical diagnosis AS were analysed. We used methylation specific PCR, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification, methylation sensitive MLPA, and direct sequencing of the UBE3A gene.

Results: In 9 families (41%) pathogenic mutations were detected, which confirmed the clinical diagnosis on а molecular-genetic level. In 4 (44%) of these families we found 15q11-q13 region deletion with breakpoints BP1-BP3 or BP2-BP3. In 1 (11%) of the families we found imprinting defect: deletion of the AS-SRO regulatory region (part of the PWS-AS imprinting center). In 1 (11%) of the families we detected a rare finding – paternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 15. In 3 (33%) of the families diff erent point mutations in the UBE3A gene were detected: two novel missence mutations c.488T > C; p.Leu163Ser and c.1832A > T; p.Gln611Leu, and one known frameshift mutation c.2576_2579delAAGA; p.Lys859Argfs*4.

Conclusion: The obtained results helped us to develop a systematic diagnostic algorithm in order to provide proper diagnosis for the patients with AS. Combining excellent knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of mutagenesis and proper molecular-genetic testing approaches is a cornerstone in the management of AS patients, ensuring AS families would receive both adequate genetic counseling and prophylaxis of the disease in the future.
Fungal Peritonitis Due to Gastroduodenal Perforation: Diagnostic and Treatment Challenges
Authors: Tzoneva D. , Masljankov S. , Sokolov M. , Marteva-Proevska Y. , Velinov T.
Published: May 2020

The gastrointestinal tract perforation is one of the leading causes of acute abdomen. Mycotic infections have become a significant clinical problem over the last few decades. Despite the advance in diagnostics and treatment of patients with fungal peritonitis, the mortality remains high.

Objective. The objective of the study was to determine the type and incidence of causative pathogens of acute peritonitis in patients with gastroduodenal perforation, and to estimate the impact of microbial flora on the disease outcome.

Materials and methods. We performed a retrospective study among 83 adult patients with acute peritonitis due to gastroduodenal perforation treated at our centre.

Results. A total of 40 mycotic agents were isolated in 39 of the abdominal samples. The primary mycotic isolates were Candida albicans (52.5%) and C. glabrata (64.3%); C. krusei (14.3%) and C. tropicalis (7.1%) predominated among non-albicans Candida species (35.0%). The most common bacterial agents were Escherichia coli (24.0%) and Enterococcus spp. (24.0%). 77.1% of all enrolled patients survived, and 19 of them deceased due to sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

Conclusion. Candida albicans is the most common mycotic pathogen in patients with acute peritonitis due to gastroduodenal perforation. It is obligatory to examine the peritoneal fluid samples for bacterial and fungal pathogens with determination of their antimicrobial susceptibility profile. Timely initiation of adequate treatment and multidisciplinary approach is crucial for the outcome of patients with fungal peritonitis.
Digital Determination of Curvature of Root Canals of Extracted Teeth
Authors: Kosturkov D. , Radeva E. , Uzunov T.
Published: May 2020

Introduction: Determination of the curvature of root canals at present is accomplished by complicated or expensive methods. Therefore, there is a need to develop a new digital method by which this curvature can be determined quickly, easily and accurately.

The aim of this in-vitro study is to determine the angles of curvature of the root canals of extracted teeth by comparing a new digital method of measurement with an established digital method.

Material and Methods: Forty-eight (48) root canals of extracted teeth were studied to achieve the goal. In all roots, curvature is measured by three methods: Method 1 – new digital photographic method and special Software (Screen Protractor); Method 2 – a new digital radiography method and special software (Screen Protractor); Method 3 – approved method, digital by X-ray and special Software (Durr dental).

Results: The mean degrees of the measured curvature of the root canals in all three groups are similar and are about 22°. There are no statistically significant differences between them (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: This shows that the new digital photographic and x-ray methods for measuring root curvature can accurately determine the curve angle for extracted teeth.
Computer Program for Digital Data Analysis of Facebow Records – Part І
Authors: Pavlova Z. , Tumbalov A. , Filtchev A.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of the study is to create computer program for the achievement of precise digital data processing of records performed with the “Facebow Mini-Maxi” and the facilitation of information transfer to the articulator.

Material and method: A conceptual project was developed in order to create a new software product and requirements were defined towards its capacities, which are to provide guidance for its creation. With the assistance of computer programmer, the project was implemented.

Results: The computer program “Facebow Mini-Maxi Analyzer” for digital data processing of registrants performed with the auricular type facebow was created. The program provides automatic recognition, reading, calibration and measurement of data obtained by “Facebow Mini-Maxi”. The main module gives us opportunities for measuring the values of: the sagittal condylar pathway; the arrow point angle and the length of the hinge axis. After finalizing the calculations, the software automatically generates a scheme with visualization of the parameters that significantly supports the dental technician when it comes to defining the accurate position of the models in dental articulator with individual parameters.

Conclusion: The computer program provides accurate analysis of facebow records and assists in determining individual patient movement parameters of the lower jaw. The obtained results from the analysis improve the precision of casts mounting in articulator. The program cuts down the risk of subjective error when analysing the data via manual measurement of the recorded parameters on paper carrier.
Subacute Thyroiditis – An Underestimated Diagnosis: Description of a Case Series
Authors: Vlahov Y. , Borisova A-M. , Nikolova M. , Kundurdjiev A. , Ivanova R.
Published: May 2020

Subacute thyroiditis is a relatively rare thyroid disease that develops after acute viral upper respiratory tract infection and manifests with neck pain, fever and transient hyperthyroidism. The diagnosis is often delayed due to the non-specific presentation and laboratory findings. It is misdiagnosed with upper respiratory tract infections, cervical lymph-adenitis, even with acute pyelonephritis. The authors present a series of 12 patients with subacute thyroiditis and discuss the main steps in the diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Spontaneous Perforation of a Malignified Corrosive Stricture of the Esophagus and Subsequent Perforation of a Giant Duodenal Stress ULCUS
Authors: Yankov G. , Yamakova Y. , Vladimirov B. , Petkov R. , Mekov E. , Ilieva V. , Yanev N. , Petrov D.
Published: May 2020

Surgical interventions for corrosive stricture of the esophagus are extremely difficult and technically challenging. In this manuscript, we present a patient with esophagectomy due to perforation of a corrosive stricture of the esophagus that underwent malignant transformation and subsequent perforation of a giant duodenal stress ulcus, which occurred 12 days after the intervention. We performed a total esophagectomy, pharyngo- and gastrostomy, suture of the duodenal perforation but the postoperative period was challenging and despite our efforts, the patient died on the 50th postoperative day due to respiratory and renal failure.
Regulatory Role of microRNAs in Tumor Angiogenesis
Authors: Popov T. , Giragosyan S. , Petkova V. , Marinov Tz. , Belitova M. , Rangachev J. , Kaneva R. , Mitev V.
Published: May 2020

The process of neoangiogenesis is one of the classic hallmarks of a cancer. Its intricate mechanisms have long been one of the major domains in cancer research and a hope for a therapeutic breakthrough. Last decade a new subgroup of non-coding RNA molecules was reported called microRNAs. Literally hundreds of new molecules in this class are being uncovered as pivotal regulators in virtually all intracellular processes. The aim of this study is to classify and review those microRNA molecules that have a role in the processes of tumor angiogenesis and map their places in the regulatory framework of the classical proangiogenic genes and their canonical cascades.
Thin layer chromatographic compatibility study in preformulation of new transdermal therapeutic systems
Authors: Moldovan Octavia-Laura , Brihan Diana-Nicoleta , Todoran Nicoleta , Rusu Aura
Published: May 2020

Objective: The compatibility of four binary active substances combinations adapalene – levofloxacin (ADP-LFX), adapalene – miconazole nitrate (ADP-MCZ), levofloxacin – meloxicam (LFX-MLX) and levofloxacin – miconazole nitrate (LFX-MCZ) was analysed to be comprised in new transdermal therapeutic systems. Also, the compatibility of selected active substances and four polymeric excipients (hydroxypropyl methyl-cellulose - HPMC 15000, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose - HPMC E5, ethyl cellulose - EC 10, and hydroxyethyl cellulose – HEC) was studied.

Methods: Thin layer chromatographic method (TLC) and four selected mobile phases were used. On the plate (in situ) were obtained the binary combinations (active substances and active substance-polymer).

Results: A good compatibility of ADP-LFX was found using ammonia : methanol : acetonitrile : methylene chloride 2:4:1:4 mobile phase. Using chloroform : acetone : glacial acetic acid 34:4:3 on the chromatogram of ADP-MCZ, only ADP spots appeared but without changes in the shape of the spots and Rf values. Any modifications of LFX and MLX spots (from LFX-MLX mixture) had been observed using toluene : glacial acetic acid : methanol 11:1:0.5 mobile phase, although LFX spots have remained on the baseline. Only LFX spots were visible from LFX-MLX and LFX-MCZ mixtures (ammonia : methanol : acetonitrile : methylene chloride 2:4:1:4 mobile phase). Distinctive spots were observed for ADP, LFX and MLX with variable results from no chemical interactions to limited chemical interactions when the compatibility with polymers was verified.

Conclusions: ADP-LFX and LFX-MLX mixtures were found to be compatible. ADP with HPMC polymers and LFX with HPMC E5 and HEC had presented excellent compatibility; for the other binary combinations, different analytical methods will be necessary.
New Travelling Wave Solutions for KdV6 Equation Using Sub Equation Method
Authors: Durur Hülya , Kurt Ali , Tasbozan Orkun
Published: May 2020

This paper proposes obtaining the new wave solutions of time fractional sixth order nonlinear Equation (KdV6) using sub-equation method where the fractional derivatives are considered in conformable sense. Conformable derivative is an understandable and applicable type of fractional derivative that satisfies almost all the basic properties of Newtonian classical derivative such as Leibniz rule, chain rule and etc. Also conformable derivative has some superiority over other popular fractional derivatives such as Caputo and Riemann-Liouville. In this paper all the computations are carried out by computer software called Mathematica.
Connections Between the Completion of Normed Spaces Over Non-Archimedean Fields and the Stability of the Cauchy Equation
Authors: Schwaiger Jens
Published: May 2020

In [12] a close connection between stability results for the Cauchy equation and the completion of a normed space over the rationals endowed with the usual absolute value has been investigated. Here similar results are presented when the valuation of the rationals is a p-adic valuation. Moreover a result by Zygfryd Kominek ([5]) on the stability of the Pexider equation is formulated and proved in the context of Banach spaces over the field of p-adic numbers.
Delta-Convexity With Given Weights
Authors: Ger Roman
Published: May 2020

Some differentiability results from the paper of D.Ş. Marinescu & M. Monea [7] on delta-convex mappings, obtained for real functions, are extended for mappings with values in a normed linear space. In this way, we are nearing the completion of studies established in papers [2], [5] and [7].
Notes on a General Sequence
Authors: Farhadian Reza , Jakimczuk Rafael
Published: May 2020

Let {rn}n

∈𝕅 be a strictly increasing sequence of nonnegative real numbers satisfying the asymptotic formula rn ~ αβn
, where α, β are real numbers with α > 0 and β > 1. In this note we prove some limits that connect this sequence to the number e. We also establish some asymptotic formulae and limits for the counting function of this sequence. All of the results are applied to some well-known sequences in mathematics.
Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus responsible for bovine mastitis sensitivity to the essential oil of Algerian Thymus fontanesii Boiss. et Reut.
Authors: elhouda Bendella Amina nor , Kheira Ghazi , Samia Meliani
Published: May 2020

The aim of this study is to test two different methods for evaluating the in vitro antibacterial effect of Thymus fontanesii Boiss. et Reut. essential oil against standard and clinical bacterial strains responsible for bovine mastitis: the disc diffusion method or the aromatogram which allows the demonstration of the antibacterial power of essential oils on the bacterial strains tested, Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and two strains isolated from bovine mastitis milk S. aureus and E. coli. The inhibition activity of the essential oil of T. fontanesii on bacterial strains by the two methods shows that the antimicrobial power of this oil is very important and is characterized by bactericidal and bacteriostatic action against gram negative and gram positive bacteria. The antimicrobial evaluation by the aromatogram showed good antibacterial activity against all the strains tested, the zones of inhibition of the bacteria were between 23,33±1,527mm and 37,5±3,535 mm. The search for minimum inhibitory concentrations MIC and bactericides CMB made it possible to quantitatively assess the antimicrobial power of this essential oil. In this work, the MIC was 0,625 µl/ml for all strains tested, and the lowest CMB was that of T. fontanesii against E. coli ATCC 25922 was 0,625 µl/ml.
In vitro antioxidant activity and protective effect of Hertia cheirifolia L. n-butanol extract against liver and heart mitochondrial oxidative stress in rat
Authors: Menakh Mouna , Mahdi Djahida , Boutellaa Saber , Zellagui Amar , Lahouel Mesbah , Bensouici Chawki
Published: May 2020

The current study investigated the protective effect of Hertia cheirifolia L. n-butanol extract on oxidative stress in vitro by measuring lipid peroxidation (MDA) level and superoxide anion (O2
•-) production in liver and heart mitochondria of rat. In addition, the antioxidant potential of H. cheirifolia n-butanol extract was evaluated by using five methods: ABTS•+, O2
•-, Bleaching of β-carotene in linoleic acid, CUPRAC and Ferric reducing power. The results indicated that n-butanol extract contained large amounts of total phenolics (203.52±1.81 mg GAE/g) and flavonoids (104.86±0.57 mg QE/g), and had an interesting antioxidant activity and protective effect on mitochondrial oxidative stress. Therefore, H. cheirifolia n-butanol extract may serve as potential source of natural antioxidant for pharmaceutical applications.
The anti-acetylcholinesterase, insecticidal and antifungal activities of the entophytic fungus Trichoderma sp. isolated from Ricinus communis L. against Locusta migratoria L. and Botrytis cinerea Pers.: Fr.
Authors: Laib Djamel Eddine , Benzara Abdelmadjid , Akkal Salah , Bensouici Chawki
Published: May 2020

This study was conducted to evaluate anti-acetylcholinesterase and insecticidal and antifungal activities of the endophytic fungus Trichoderma sp, isolated from Ricinus communis L. leaves, against Locusta migratoria L. and Botrytis cinerea Pers.: Fr.. To evaluate the insecticidal and antifungal activities, different concentrations of the fungal extract were applied against L. migratoria (0.2, 0.3, 0.4 g/l) and against B. cinerea (1, 2, 3 g/l). It was found that the mortality of the targeted insects was positively proportional to fungal extract concentration and time after exposure (24, 48, 72 hours). The concentration 0.4 g/l appeared to be the most effective after 72 hours with mortality rate of 56.52%. Regarding antifungal activity, the concentration 3 g/l was the most effective against B. cinerea after 7 days, with an inhibition rate of 92.06% (excellent antifungal activity). Moreover, it was found that at 4 ug/ml the fungal extract had a maximum inhibitory capacity of Ache of 80% for acetylcholenesterase. Preliminary phytochemical analyses revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols and saponins. In addition the colony of this endophytic fungus produced chitinases and proteases, which explained its important antifungal and insecticidal activities.
Spectral investigations of some piperidin-4-one molecular addition compounds
Authors: Chakkaravarthy Jayaraman , Muthuvel Inbasekaran , Thirunarayanan Ganesamoorthy
Published: May 2020

In the present study, some 2- and 3-substituted piperidin-4-ones (A1-A3
) were chosen as proton acceptor and maleic anhydride was chosen as proton donor. Piperidin-4-ones (A1, A2 ---amp--- A3
) were mixed with maleic anhydride in ether medium and the corresponding molecular adduct products (B1, B2 ---amp--- B3
) thus obtained were collected and purified. The 1H and 13C NMR spectra were recorded for piperidine-4-one and their addition compounds. The 1H and 13C NMR chemical shifts of products (B1, B2 ---amp--- B3
) are analyzed and compared with those of the corresponding piperidine-4-ones (A1, A2 ---amp--- A3
). In order to confirm the formation of molecular addition compounds the GC-Mass spectrum was recorded for all adducts B1-B3 and the fragmentations patterns were analyzed.
Enhancement of tartaric acid modified washing solutions for lead decontamination of tropical soils
Authors: Etim Effiong Ukorebi
Published: May 2020

Tartaric acid is generally not an effective soil washing solution, hence this study focuses on enhancing its usage for soil-Pb decontamination. Three tropical soil types (sandy, clay and loamy) with different lead concentrations were subjected to single batch washing using 0.01, 0.1, 0.5 and 1 M tartaric acid with 5% and 10% KCl modification at 3% soil-pulp-density for 2, 6, 12 and 24 h washing time. The optimum washing conditions were 1 M tartaric acid at 24 h washing time, with Pb removal efficiency: sandy- 94.3%, clay-67.6% and loamy-36.8%. Modification of tartaric acid with 5% and 10% KCl brought about some degree of enhancement of Pb removal efficiency especially for clay and loamy soils. Removal efficiency for 5% KCl modification were: sandy-97.9%, clay-96.2% with 1 M tartaric acid at 24 h washing time, loamy-76.7% for 0.5 M tartaric acid. Similarly, 10% KCl modification were: sandy-96.7%, clay-97.2% for 1 M tartaric acid at 24 h, loamy-82.1% for 0.5 M tartaric acid. Removal efficiency was soil concentration dependent. Generally, removal efficiency increased with increasing tartaric acid concentrations and washing time. Tartaric acid washing is promising and recommended in events of moderate contamination and 10% KCl modification in event of high level contamination. Further study is needed on enhancing very low concentrations of tartaric acid for large scale applications.
Analysis of the Thermal Insulation of Textiles Using Thermography and CFD Simulation Based on Micro-CT Models
Authors: Puszkarz Adam K. , Wojciechowski Jarosław , Krucińska Izabella
Published: May 2020

The article presents the results of an attempt to use high-resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) to model the thermal insulation of clothing as one of the most important parameters affecting the heat balance between a human and his/her surroundings. Cotton knitted fabric applied in functional clothing for newborns and aramid woven fabric used in multilayer protective clothing for firefighters were the tested materials. The 3D models of real textiles based on micro-CT images were developed. Next, the models were applied to heat transfer simulations using the finite volume method. The usefulness of the models was experimentally verified using thermography with real textiles. The simulation results were consistent with the measurement results and confirmed the relationship between the thermal insulation and geometry of the textiles on the one hand and the physical parameters of the raw materials from which they were made on the other hand.
Comparison of anthropometric profile and handgrip strength between inter-university volleyball players and a reference group
Authors: Khanna Archana , Koley Shyamal
Published: May 2020

Study aim: In a volleyball game, multiple elements can influence competitive success, e.g. height, arm span and other anthropometric variables. The present cross-sectional study was undertaken to find out whether any differences exist between Indian inter-university male and female volleyball players as well as between players and a reference group in terms of anthropometry and handgrip strength.

Materials and methods: The present cross-sectional research was conducted on 114 randomly selected Indian inter-university male (n = 50) and female (n = 64) volleyball players aged 18–25 years. An equal number of reference group individuals who did not participate in any exercise or training programme were also taken. Height, body weight, body mass index (BMI) (kg/m2), hand length, hand breadth, second digit length, fourth digit length, second and fourth digit ratio (2D/4D ratio), upper arm length, forearm length, total arm length, upper arm circumference, hip circumference; humerus and femur biepicondylar diameters, handgrip strength (dominant/non-dominant), arm muscle area, arm area, arm fat area, arm fat index, % body fat, and % lean body mass were measured with equipment including an anthropometer, sliding caliper, handgrip dynamometer and skinfold caliper using standard techniques. The data were analysed using SPSS version 17.0. Student’s t-test was applied for the comparison of data between players and the reference group. Differences between the groups were analysed using the oneway ANOVA test. Bonferroni post hoc test was applied after application of the ANOVA test. Effect size was also calculated. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was indicated using a 5% level of probability.

Results: Male volleyball players had higher mean values in height, body weight, hand length, hand breadth, second and fourth digit length, dominant and non-dominant handgrip strength, humerus and femur biepicondylar diameter, upper arm length, forearm length and total arm length, arm muscle area, arm area and percent lean body mass than the reference group. Similar findings were observed between female players and the reference group also. Statistically significant differences (p < 0.05–0.001) were also observed between male and female players except BMI, 2D/4D ratio, and arm fat area. These findings were supported by the effect size (η) calculations.

Conclusion: Volleyball players had better height, weight, hand and arm anthropometrics, handgrip strength and % lean body mass as compared to the reference group. Significant differences were found in anthropometry and handgrip strength between players and reference group individuals, suggesting that these findings could be very useful for player selection and talent identification in sports.
Factors associated with prevalence of pain and musculoskeletal injuries in Brazilian kickboxers: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dantas Glauko André Figueiredo , de Menezes Cruz Clarissa Lula , Silva Flávio Santos , Cerqueira Mikhail Santos , Abreu Bento João , Vieira Wouber Hérickson Brito
Published: May 2020

Study aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with pain and musculoskeletal injuries in Brazilian kickboxers.

Material and methods: This is a cross-sectional study composed of a population of kickboxers from the academies affiliated to the Rio Grande do Norte State Federation of Kickboxing. The study was conducted by means of a questionnaire regarding their demographic data, graduation and level of participation in the modality, routines of procedures during training, and pain/ discomfort regions and respective intensities. In addition, the characteristics, types, and regions of the injuries were evaluated.

Results: Of the 132 kickboxers included, a high prevalence of pain (84.09%) was observed and associated with the female gender (OR = 3.62; CI95% 1.29–10.13) and body mass index (OR = 0.80; CI95% 0.71–0.91). In addition, the kickboxers presented a moderate percentage of injuries (40.91%) that were associated with longer training time (OR = 5.82; CI95% 2.68–12.61) and contact level in the training sessions (OR = 3.53; CI95% 1.85–6.72).

Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of musculoskeletal pain in kickboxers, mainly associated with female gender and with lower body mass. Musculoskeletal injuries were moderately prevalent in kickboxers who trained more than one hour per session and with an intense contact level.
William O. Douglas and The Assault on Objectivity
Authors: Halper Thomas
Published: May 2020

William O. Douglas, venerated by some and reviled by others, was very much his own man, disdaining his colleagues on the bench and the work they produced. For him, the point of judging was simply to do justice. However, justice is not always self evident, and legal norms and values, like objectivity and stare decisis, are ignored at a high cost. Nor, as it turns out, was his carefully carved authentic persona more than a mask of lies.
Directions for the Study of Masculinity: Beyond Toxicity, Experience, and Alienation
Authors: Yaeger Dylan A.
Published: May 2020

The relationship between the law and masculinity has not been as thoroughly examined as the relationship between the law and feminism or, more generally, between the law and gender. Yet, the reach of masculinity stretches deep into the very fiber of the law. Masculinity has for too long served as an invisible bedrock on which the law founded both its substance and method. The struggle for formal equality during the last half century sought the elimination of the masculinist bias, but has only exposed the extent of the entrenchment. The popular idea is that the law exists in a removed and exalted position where it sits in judgement of a pre-existing and fully formed masculinity. Indeed, much of the internal coherence of the law is premised on the integrity of the subject and the propagation of sexual difference. Thus, the law is precluded from acknowledging or engaging with its own productive power and vacuously characterizes itself as a neutral arbiter. Today, while significant changes occur in sex and sexuality, the study of masculinity appears theoretically stagnant.

Part I of this paper distinguishes between masculinity studies and the men's movement and explains the relationship of each to feminist theory. Part II looks at how the power of the law works and how masculinity studies is an effective tool to help understand how that power manifests and is employed. Part III examines the relationship between feminist legal theory and masculinity studies with a particular focus on two areas where I view masculinity studies as having successfully employed insights from feminist theory. Finally, Part IV considers four areas where I suggest masculinity studies could better incorporate certain insights from feminist theory, which would result in a more rigorous understanding of the relationship among power, masculinity, and law, and point masculinity studies in a more nuanced direction. To advance this critique, the paper analyzes underlying arguments that support the power of law based in classic liberal political theory. It employs recurrent critiques of the law, and of liberalism more generally, found in Feminist Legal Theory, Critical Race Theory, Queer Theory, and Critical Legal Studies to reveal the law as always already intertwined with masculinity.
Modernity, the Commons and Capitalism
Authors: Skouras George
Published: May 2020

The modern way of life and reflected in modern political philosophy is directed by capitalist activity of both commodities and persons. Entities that do not have commodity value are worthless to the capitalist enterprise, regardless of any intrinsic value in themselves. Modernity is capitalist modernity. Modernity has given preference for objects/commodities over persons. This paper will argue for opening-up the landscape for alternative experiences to capitalism, as an attempt to move away from the capitalist enterprise. That is, be able to provide open space for people to use other than the buying and selling of commodities---where the commodification process breaks down and opens-up spaces for alternative experiences besides the capitalist experience. In other words, this work will attempt to serve as critique of Enlightenment philosophical discourse---that is, serve as a critique of the Age of Enlightenment serving as the foundational head of modernism---a plea for the rebellion against the quantification and mathematization of reality under modernist and industrial societies. It will use the modern landscape as the first effort to break free from the capitalist enterprise.
On Some Knowledge Measures of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets of Type Two with Application to MCDM
Authors: Singh Surender , Lalotra Sumita , Ganie Abdul Haseeb
Published: May 2020

To overcome the certain limitations of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets (IFSs), the notion of Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets of Second Type (IFSST) was introduced. IFSST is a modified version of IFS for handling some problems in a reasonable manner. Type two Intuitionistic Fuzzy entropy (IFSST-entropy) measures the amount of ambiguity/uncertainty present in an IFSST. In the present paper, we introduce the concept of dual measure of IFSST-entropy, i.e., IFSST-knowledge measure. We develop some IFSST-knowledge measures and prove some of their properties. We also show the superiority of the proposed IFSST-knowledge measures through comparative study. Further, we demonstrate the application of the proposed knowledge measures in Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM).
Contribution to the Study of the Durability of Rubberized Concrete in Aggressive Environments
Authors: Kechkar Chiraz , Belachia Mouloud , Cherait Yacine
Published: May 2020

Today, much of the world’s waste, in particular used tires, is accumulating as a potential source of major environmental and economic problems. In order to better preserve the environment, and in the face of changes in the legislation in force, many recovery actions have been carried out especially in the field of building materials.

The present research aims to contribute to the study of the mechanical properties and durability of concretes based on rubber aggregates. To achieve this objective, we have contemplated incorporating therein amounts of rubber granules according to different volume substitution percentages being 10%, 17.5%, and 25%. A comparison of the results with a control concrete has been established.

The obtained results make it possible to demonstrate that the substitution of a percentage of sand by rubber granules decreases the mechanical strengths and increases the expansion in water. On the other hand, it improves the resistance to attack from H2SO4, Na2SO4, and seawater. The latter is evaluated by the loss and gain in mass as well as the loss in mechanical resistance, especially in the long term (more than 90 days), decreases drying shrinkage, thus decreasing microscopic cracks and providing better durability.
Respiratory Diseases in Children and Air Pollution – The Cost of – Illness Assessment in Ostrava City
Authors: Tóthová Dominika
Published: May 2020

The article addresses the need to identify and quantify the external costs of air pollution on the health of the population, especially children. The subjects of evaluation are the respiratory illnesses acute nasopharyngitis and acute bronchitis, both of which have very high incidence in connection with air pollution. The aim of this paper is to estimate the cost of morbidity and to determine the amount of additional social costs of airway morbidity among children aged 0–15 years in Ostrava city, one of the most polluted cities in Europe, compared to the incidence of these diseases in the whole Czech Republic. Estimation of social costs is based on the Cost-Of-Illness approach, in which the total value is made up of the costs actually incurred in treating illness and in loss of productivity. Using this approach, additional costs related to the treatment of illnesses were calculated at approximately €20 million per year, which represents approximately 0.4% of Ostrava's regional gross domestic product (GDP).
New tirapazamine derivatives protect cardiomyocytes from doxorubicin toxicity
Authors: Korga Agnieszka , Iwan Magdalena , Matosiuk Dariusz , Rzadkowska Marzena , Szacon Elzbieta , Humeniuk Ewelina , Sysa Marcin , Ostrowska Marta , Dudka Jaroslaw
Published: May 2020

Doxorubicin cardiotoxicity is caused by various mechanisms, most importantly by oxidative stress originating in the mitochondria. Tirapazamine is a hypoxia-activated anticancer experimental drug. Both drugs in normoxia conditions undergo univalent reduction, thus tirapazamine may compete with doxorubicin in univalent reduction enzyme uptake. Herein, tirapazamine derivatives consisted of drug molecules and alkyl chain-connected triphenylphosphine cations that bring about an accumulation in mitochondria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interaction of newly synthesized tirapazamine derivatives with doxorubicin in rat cardiomyocytes via an vitro model. In the work, H9C2 cells were incubated with combinations of doxorubicin, tirapazamine and seven variants of tirapazamine derivatives. After 24 hours, cell viability was assessed using MTT assay and the results were confirmed by microscopic observation. Tirapazamine in all tested concentrations did not revealed significant protective activity to cardiomyocytes treated with doxorubicine. However, tirapazamine derivatives diminished the cytotoxic effect of doxorubicin regardless of concentration and alkyl chain length. Tirapazamine derivatives have shown protective effects in relation to cardiomyocytes treated with doxorubicin and the mechanism of this phenomenon must be confirmed.