bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotary-centrifugal shredder for forage preparation
Authors: Sukhoparov Alexey , Papushin Eduard , Ivanov Ilya , Plotnikova Ylia
Published: December 2020

Existing grain shredders have disadvantages, the main of which are the following: high metal and energy consumption, uneven granulometric composition of the crushed product, high percentage of pulverized fraction, rapid wear of working bodies, product heating. To eliminate the disadvantages, the design of a rotary-centrifugal grain shredder is proposed. The presented design requires optimization of a number of structural and kinematic parameters. To solve this problem, the method of a multifactor experiment was chosen. The feed of grain material, the rotor speed, the opening of the separating surface, and the number of knives on the inner and outer rings were taken as factors that varied at two levels. As optimization criteria, the plant performance, power consumption during grain grinding, and compliance of the resulting product with zootechnical requirements were considered. As a result of data array processing, adequate and reliable mathematical models were obtained. As a result of model analysis, the influence of factors on optimization criteria was established.
Theoretical analysis of operator actions when driving vehicle
Authors: Shkrabak V.S. , Khristoforov E.N. , Sakovich N.E. , Popov A.A. , Shkrabak R.V. , Grigorov P.P.
Published: December 2020

Approaches to the process of vehicle research are described, research methods are presented, their advantages and disadvantages, and the important role of mathematical research is noted. The points of differences between operator control and automatic control systems are considered. A mathematical model of the operator’s actions in driving a vehicle is described, which reflects the psychophysical properties of the operator, the presence of absolute and differential thresholds of sensitivity. The model takes into account the delay in the operator’s response and the discreteness of information perception. The model can be used for modeling all software management tasks. Moreover, when forming the control action of the operator - in the mathematical model, the characteristic features of the operator’s activity that differ from an automatic control system are considered, and when forming the control action of the operator - in the mathematical model, some conditions were applied, thanks to which, it is possible to calculate the necessary deviation of the controls, such as the steering wheel and, accordingly, the wheels of the vehicle, knowing the required nature of changes in the parameters of the traffic’s vehicle.
Improving the reproductive function of replacement and adult sows
Authors: Pokhodnya G.S. , Kosov A.V. , Breslavets V.M. , Breslavets Yu.P. , Perevozchikov N.V.
Published: December 2020

Studies have shown that feeding the feed additive “Elevit” during the preparation of sows for insemination in a dosage of 1.0; 2.0; 3.0; 4.0% over the basic daily diet can increase estrum in replacement sows by 6.6; 20.0; 26.6; 26.6%, respectively, fertilization and prolificacy by 2.1; 5.3; 6.6; 6.6% and 1.0; 4.3; 7.6; 6.5%, respectively. Such a significant increase in the previously mentioned indicators also led to an increase in the total number of piglets by 13.5; 43.2; 60.8; 59.4%, respectively, while their cost at birth decreased by 11.5; 29.7; 37.4; 36.7% compared to the control group. Similar results were obtained from adult sows – estrum increased by 3.4; 10.0; 10.0; 10.0%, fertilization and prolificacy by 0.5; 5.0; 5.0; 5.0% by 0.9; 8.2; 8.2; 9.1%, respectively. At the same time, the total number of piglets at birth increased by 5.8; 28.7; 28.3; 29.1%. Their cost at birth decreased in comparison with the first control group by 5.2; 21.9; 21.5; 21.8%. From the data obtained by us, the best option for feed additive “Elevit” feeding both in terms of zootechnical and economic efficiency is – for replacement gilts in the amount of 3.0%; for adult sows – 2.0% over the basic daily diet for the period of preparation for insemination.
Morpho-biochemical and immunohematologic features of calves infected with the agent of viral diarrhea
Authors: Belousov Aleksandr , Shilova Evgenia , Drozdova Lyudmila , Poryvaeva Antonina
Published: December 2020

Тhe key direction of scientific research is considered to be the study of the characteristics of the course and manifestation of the disease, as well as the determination of virulent properties of pathogens. Calves infected with the agent of viral diarrhea were chosen as a model for study of the infectious process. The study summarizes the pathogenetic mechanisms of development and expression of viral diarrhea. Clinical, biochemical, and immunehematologic features of the disease were specified. data on morphological changes in parenchymal organs of diseased animals were found. Changes in protein, lipid, mineral metabolism, and electrolyte balance indices associated with increased activity of lactate dehydrogenase are considered to be metabolic features of VD. Immunologic research showed a shift in the process of lymphocyte differentiation with activation of the b-cell link of immunity and a decline in the phagocytic index. Calves infected with VD revealed signs of structural immunodeficiency, which is morphologically confirmed by the decrease of most of the lymphoid follicles of the spleen. The lungs displayed signs of catarrhal and purulent bronchitis, manifested by hyperplasia of the bronchial epithelium, desquamation of the epithelium and accumulation of exudate in the bronchial lumen and peribronchial edema. Evidence of serous lymphadenitis were registered in the lymph nodes associated with reduction of subcapsular lymphoid follicles, both in the subcapsular and central sinuses. They were accompanied by the growth of connective tissue in the stroma of the organ.
Experimental and clinical justification of male orchidectomy under local anesthesia in combination with xylazine and subanesthetic doses of zoletil
Authors: Dashko Denis , Tarasevich Vyacheslav , Melnik Oleg
Published: December 2020

The objective of our study was to establish the possibility of safe and painless castration of males using only sedatives together with local anesthesia. Animals, before appropriate fixation, were intramuscularly injected with xylanit (active substance xylazine) at a minimum dose of 1 mg/kg of live weight and zoletil at a subanesthetic dose of 1 mg/kg of animal weight, the testes and scrotal skin were infiltrated with 2% lidocaine solution according to the generally accepted method in veterinary surgery. Before, during, and after surgery, nociception indicators were evaluated: blood pressure; heart rate and respiration rate; degree of pain relief depth (presence of pain and spontaneous movement). During the surgery, the heart rate decreased, on average, by 40-50 beats/minute from baseline values, the respiratory rate decreased, on average, by 10 breaths/minute, and there was a decrease in blood pressure. We found that pre-sedation of animals with xylanite and subanesthetic doses of zoletil followed by tissue infiltration with lidocaine allowed humanely performing orchidectomy, as well as minimizing the cost of general anesthesia and the duration of anesthesia aftereffect on the body.
Efficiency of the preparation based on Bacillus thuringiensis and nuclear polyhedrosis virus against diamond back moth (Plutella xylostella)
Authors: Plotnikov Kirill , Pashkovsky Sergey , Ryabinina Valeriya , Blazhko Natalia
Published: December 2020

Studies have been conducted to assess the effectiveness of bioinsecticide preparation based on the sporocrystalline complex Bacillus thuringiensis and the nuclear polyedrosis virus. Before the preparation usage, a significant excess of the economic threshold of harmfulness for the investigated pest was noted on the experimental area of 1 ha. In the first survey of the site, Plutella xylostella caterpillar numbers on one plant varied within 5-6 caterpillars range when 62% of white cabbage plants were settled. After 3 treatments with an experimental preparation, the number of caterpillars decreased to 98 sp./100 plants and biological efficiency was 80.4%. Also, the effectiveness of the biopreparation in comparison with chemical insecticides was proved by single-factor dispersion analysis (Fobs.= 9.05; Fcrit.= 5.98).
Range of Dagestan grape varieties and measures to improve it
Authors: Magomedov M.G. , Ramazanov O.M. , Makuev G.A. , Dalgatova A.Z. , Ramazanov A.M.
Published: December 2020

The article briefly describes the measures taken in the Russian Federation for the development of the viticulture and wine industry. It is proved that Dagestan is an ancient and unique region of viticulture and winemaking. The basics of forming the varietal composition of the region’s vineyards are revealed. Its condition is shown, shortcomings and improvement measures in Dagestan are noted. The main requirements for the formation of a grape range varieties in a particular region or district are disclosed. Functions that allow to implement a properly selected grape range of varieties are defined. The work analyzes the presence of varieties included in the State Register of Selection Achievements in the varietal composition of vineyards of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Moldova. The modern varietal composition of Dagestan vineyards is characterized, and its structure for the period 1930-2015 is analyzed. The article provides information about the current composition of Dagestan vineyards by maturation period, as well as by biological, economic and technological indicators of about 130 native and selected grape varieties.
High Pressure Processing of Meat and Meat Products: Application Aspects and Prospects of Use
Authors: Volkov Alexey , Donskova Lyudmila , Kotkova Victoria
Published: December 2020

The authors consider the technology of processing meat and meat products using high hydrostatic pressure (HHP). Based on the results of research carried out in different countries in different years and the results of our own research, the effectiveness of the use of high pressure and its role in the control and stabilization of the microflora of finished meat products and increasing their shelf life is shown. Research data indicating the possibility of using high pressure in the processing of minced meat and beef trimmings are presented. Differences in the technical parameters of the HHP technology have been established, the results show the possibility of applying a pressure value of 250 MPa, in contrast to 300-600 MPa used in research by foreign scientists. The results obtained on the protein component of cooked sausage products exposed to high pressure are of applied research interest and expand the research database. The authors consider the continuation of research in determining the optimal parameters of this technology, identifying the impact on the consumer properties of meat products, and developing organizational and methodological measures to increase the commercialization of high hydrostatic pressure processing to be promising areas.
Activation of points of economic growth in the territory of the Republic of Bashkortostan
Authors: Fedorova Olga , Valiev Shamil , Sukhankina Natalia
Published: December 2020

Activation of points of economic growth in regions with a tendency of reduction in natural resources and labor potential contributes to development of territories. The article presents an analysis of the natural resources, production and labor potential of the Republic of Bashkortostan, provides an assessment and proposes a scenario for activating points of economic growth. Cooperation of productive capacities that contribute to production of a variety of innovative marketable products will activate the points of economic growth. The natural energy potential of the Republic of Bashkortostan is limited in terms of oil, natural gas and coal, while the unique petrochemical and oil refining facilities located on this territory contribute to development of production and scientific potential in the field of hydrocarbons. Therefore, the production of hydrocarbons from renewable energy sources based on sugar and oil crops contributes to the economic growth of certain specializations of the agro-industrial and machine-building profile and partial provision of raw materials to the production specialization of the petrochemical and oil refining profile.
Social security of the individual and technological determinism: human dialectics, science and technology
Authors: Shilovtsev Andrey , Sorokina Natalia , Stozhko Konstantin , Stozhko Dmitry , Lopez Garcia Jose Luis
Published: December 2020

The aim of the study is to assess the multidimensional nature of the relationship between the social security of the individual and the new technical and technological reality. Using the example of the dialectics of science and technology, the noosphere and the technosphere, the article reveals the nature and features of such interrelations in the conditions of modern globalism, a new scientific and technological revolution and the transition of society to a new technological order. An analysis of the concepts of “transhumanism”, “posthuman” and a number of other terms is given, as well as the results of modern discussions of the problem under study. The article substantiates the idea that effective management of the modern technosphere is associated with the preservation of the basic traditional value foundations of society’s existence, which made it possible to create modern engineering and technology and which are able to provide the necessary dynamic balance between science and technology in the face of steadily growing social instability, uncertainty and risks.
Design of the FOTS cable right-of-way on the territory of the Meshchersky National Park with-in the borders of the Ryazan and Vladimir regions
Authors: Isaychev Vitaly , Tsapovskaya Olga , Provalova Elena , Yerofeev Sergey , Khamzina Oksana
Published: December 2020

The article discusses the issue of designing a fiber-optic transmission system (FORS) cable right-of-way on the territory of the Meshchersky National Park within the borders of the Ryazan and Vladimir regions. At the moment, land plots adjacent to both sides of the right-of-way may be privately owned, and changing the boundaries of the right-of-way, if necessary, may be associated with significant difficulties. Consequently, the land owner has the right to demand payment for restrictions in his economic activities on these lands provided for by the status of “protected zone”. In addition, the work pays attention to the protection of forests during the design of the cable right-of-way, since the reproduction of forests is extremely important in forests protection. In this paper, there are references to the legal documents used in the course of the study.
Efficient value chain as a factor for reducing losses and ensuring food security
Authors: Belyaev Nikolay , Donskova Lyudmila , Zueva Olga
Published: December 2020

The authors consider the situation in the field of losses formation in the production and circulation of fresh fruits and vegetables in the context of the effective value chain formation. Relevant aspects of research in this area were the importance of fresh fruits and vegetables in the formation of a healthy lifestyle, the lengthening and complication of supply chains associated with the expansion of sales markets and the presence of significant losses in this area. Features of fruit and vegetable production and commodity properties of fruits and vegetables, quality and safety requirements determine the need to build effective communication along a single chain, including the stages associated with the implementation of technological processes, the organization of product sales, and the stage of consumption. It is established that at each stage there are risks of food losses. The main conclusions of the authors include the presence of an integrated approach, mandatory consideration of the specifics of the product group under consideration, and compliance with the requirements of current international standards in the field of fresh fruits and vegetables circulation. The proposals include such areas as technological solutions for waste processing, use of the principles of charity and reverse logistics at the sale stage, and principles of responsibility for consumers.
Structural Defects in Mg-Doped GaN: TEM Analysis
Authors: Ikarashi Nobuyuki
Published: December 2020

Crystallographic defects can seriously affect the electronic properties of p-type GaN. This chapter describes the structural analysis of such defects using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). First, the structure of pyramidal inversion domains (PIDs) in heavily magnesium (Mg)-doped GaN epitaxial layers is described. Atomic resolution TEM shows that Mg atoms segregate to form an atomic layer at the (0001) boundary and substitute 1/4 of Ga atoms in the neighboring Ga layers. This structure agrees with that proposed from the first-principles calculations, and indicates that the segregated Mg atoms are electrically inactive. Moreover, the estimated concentration of segregated Mg indicates that the Mg segregation plays a key role in free-carrier reduction in heavily Mg-doped GaN. Second, we describe the defects in Mg ion-implanted and annealed GaN. The 1573-K annealing produces defects with Mg segregated boundary, whose structure is the same as that of PIDs. Moreover, the 1753-K annealing dissociates the Mg segregation and forms vacancy-type defects. Formation of the vacancy-type defects likely reduces the concentration of vacancies, which compensate Mg acceptors. This explains the significant increase in hole-concentrations in Mg ion-implanted GaN by annealing at elevated temperatures. Thus, atomic resolution TEM allows determining defect structures and locations of dopants in extended defects.
Vietnamese expletive between grammatical subject and subjectivity
marker
Authors: Dao Huy Linh
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we undertake a systematic
investigation of the peculiar behavior of the optional expletive
subject pronoun nó

expl
in spoken Vietnamese. The first part of our study consists of
an in-depth examination of its syntactic and semantic properties in
comparison to those of its referential counterpart. From this
overview, it appears that the distribution of nó

expl
is jointly determined by syntactic and discourse factors. We
then critically appraise the recent analysis by Greco
et al. (2018a, b),
according to which nó

expl
imposes a specificity requirement on sentences containing it.
We suggest to reinterpret this requirement as a corollary of the
assessment by the speaker of a given state of affairs against her
epistemic background. Pursuing the line of argumentation developed
in Dao (2014) and
integrating insights from Speas-Tenny’s syntactic approach to
Evidentiality (Speas & Tenny
2003; Speas
2004; Tenny
2006), we argue that nó

expl
is best treated as an ego-evidential marker. We further show
that nó

expl
does not intrinsically encode evidentiality but acquires its
evidential import via syntactic processes.
Eragrostis atrovirens (thalia lovegrass).
Authors: Rojas-Sandoval Julissa
Published: December 2020

Eragrostis atrovirens is a C4 grass cultivated for pasture and hay in tropical and subtropical regions (USDA-ARS, 2016). It has escaped from cultivation and once naturalized it behaves as a weed in roadsides, disturbed sites, waste areas, riparian areas, and grasslands (Barkworth et al., 2004; Flora of China Editorial Committee, 2016; PIER, 2016; PROTA, 2016). This perennial grass has the capability to tolerate drought and high saline conditions as well as seasonally waterlogged conditions. Thus, it can be found growing in floodplain grassland and swampy grassland (Flora of Pakistan, 2016). Currently, it is listed as invasive in Australia, Micronesia, Palau, Chagos Islands, Cuba, and Mexico (Villaseñor and Espinosa-Garcia, 2004; Oviedo Prieto et al., 2012; Simon and Alonso, 2016; PIER, 2016).
Distance measures in gravitational-wave astrophysics and cosmology
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yu , Holz Daniel E , Miller John , Evans Matthew , Vitale Salvatore , Creighton Jolien
Published: December 2020

We present quantities which characterize the sensitivity of gravitational-wave observatories to sources at cosmological distances. In particular, we introduce and generalize the horizon, range, response, and reach distances. These quantities incorporate a number of important effects, including cosmologically well-defined distances and volumes, cosmological redshift, cosmological time dilation, and rate density evolution. In addition, these quantities incorporate unique aspects of gravitational wave detectors, such as the variable sky sensitivity of the detectors and the scaling of the sensitivity with inverse distance. An online calculator (https://users.rcc.uchicago.edu/~dholz/gwc/) and python notebook (https://github.com/hsinyuc/distancetool) to determine GW distances are available. We provide answers to the question: ‘How far can gravitational-wave detectors hear?’
Crystal plasticity modeling of non-Schmid yield behavior: from Ni3Al single crystals to Ni-based superalloys
Authors: Ranjan Devraj , Narayanan Sankar , Kadau Kai , Patra Anirban
Published: December 2020

A crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) framework is proposed for modeling the non-Schmid yield behavior of L12 type Ni3Al crystals and Ni-based superalloys. This framework relies on the estimation of the non-Schmid model parameters directly from the orientation- and temperature-dependent experimental yield stress data. The inelastic deformation model for Ni3Al crystals is extended to the precipitate (γ′) phase of Ni-based superalloys in a homogenized dislocation density based crystal plasticity framework. The framework is used to simulate the orientation- and temperature-dependent yield of Ni3Al crystals and single crystal Ni-based superalloy, CMSX-4, in the temperature range 260–1304 K. Model predictions of the yield stress are in general agreement with experiments. Model predictions are also made regarding the tension–compression asymmetry and the dominant slip mechanism at yield over the standard stereographic triangle at various temperatures for both these materials. These predictions provide valuable insights regarding the underlying (orientation- and temperature-dependent) slip mechanisms at yield. In this regard, the non-Schmid model may also serve as a standalone analytical model for predicting the yield stress, the tension–compression asymmetry and the underlying slip mechanism at yield as a function of orientation and temperature.
Time–frequency decomposition-assisted improved localization of proximity of damage using acoustic sensors
Authors: Barbosh Mohamed , Sadhu Ayan , Sankar Girish
Published: December 2020

Nondestructive testing (NDT) technique has emerged as a valuable tool for detecting damage and evaluating the overall structural condition, leading to enhanced safety and optimized maintenance of large-scale structures. The acoustic emission (AE) approach is one of the powerful NDT techniques that can be suitable for damage detection due to its high sensitivity to localized damage. In this paper, an improved method based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and Shannon entropy (E) is proposed to localize the structural damage using AE sensors without considering any manual feature extraction of standalone AE parameters. EMD is first applied to eliminate the noise from the measured AE data and extract the key AE components, and then the E value of each AE component is estimated and used to identify the potential location of a crack in structural elements. The proposed method is validated using a suite of experimental studies and AE data obtained from a full-scale concrete dam located in Ontario, Canada. The results show the capability of the proposed method for identifying the approximate location of the damages and prove that the proposed method can be suitable for robust damage or crack localization.
Seismic mitigation performance of periodic foundations with inertial amplification mechanism considering superstructure-foundation interaction
Authors: Sun Feifei , Dai Xiaoxin , Liu Yue , Xiao Lei
Published: December 2020

The periodic foundation is a novel seismic isolation technology which uses the filtering characteristics of periodic structures. In order to solve the shortcomings of the existing attenuation mechanism, and to have a better attenuation effect on the main frequency band of ground motions, a periodic foundation based on the inertial amplification mechanism (IAPF) is proposed. The seismic mitigation performance of IAPF is studied by frequency response analysis. The sensitivity analysis and optimization of the interactive system which is composed of IAPF and superstructure are also carried out. The performance of the IAPF interactive system is compared with that of the interactive system composed of the local resonance periodic foundation and superstructure. The results show that IAPF does not require a large resonator mass to mitigate structural response. In addition, proper additional damping can significantly reduce the resonance peak and has negligible effect on the attenuation depth, which makes up for the shortcoming that the periodic foundation will amplify the response at the resonance peaks outside the attenuation zone to some extent.
Fitness consequences of seasonally different life histories? A match–mismatch experiment
Authors: Guenther Anja , Eweleit Lucienne , Trillmich Fritz
Published: December 2020

To survive and reproduce successfully, animals have to find the optimal time of breeding. Species living in nontropical environments often adjust their reproduction plastically according to seasonal changes of the environment. Information about the prevailing season can be transmitted in utero, leading to the adaptation of the offspring to the prevailing season. After birth, animals acquire additional personal information about the environment, which allows them to adjust their reproductive investment. Here, we tested in a full-factorial match–mismatch experiment the influence of reproductive adjustments according to maternal and personal information. We bred wild cavies (Cavia aperea), a precocial rodent, either into increasing (spring) or decreasing (autumn) photoperiod and, subsequently, after weaning, transferred female offspring to the matching or mismatching season. We measured growth, specific metabolic rate (sRMR) and reproductive events across six months. Although sRMR was elevated for females primed for good (spring) conditions when transferred to the mismatching autumn condition, we found no maternal effects on reproduction. Females adjusted their reproductive decisions according to the season they personally experienced, thereby implying a potentially high level of plasticity. Females reproducing in spring started reproduction earlier with a lower reproductive effort than females reproducing in autumn but, ultimately, the two groups did not differ in survival, growth, or reproduction. These data suggest important developmental plasticity, highlight the use of personal information acquired after weaning over early information provided until weaning, and point out the potential value of multiple cues, such as food abundance and quality and temperature besides photoperiod.
The functional role of sibling aggression and “best of a bad job” strategies in cichlid juveniles
Authors: Satoh Shun , Nishida Yuusuke , Saeki Taiga , Kawasaka Kento , Kohda Masanori , Awata Satoshi
Published: December 2020

Siblings often compete for limited resources, such as food provided by their parents. However, although several functions of nonlethal sibling (nonsiblicidal) aggression have been proposed, there is currently little empirical evidence for these, apart from food monopolization. Here, we investigated the functions of nonlethal sibling aggression in the biparental-caring territorial herbivorous cichlid Varibilichromis moorii. We found that the juveniles of this species are highly aggressive and that larger juveniles are more aggressive toward their smaller siblings. Larger juveniles feed on algae more frequently than smaller siblings, thereby indicating a dominance hierarchy. Sibling aggression decreased when algae in the nest was experimentally removed. Furthermore, the removal of smaller juveniles decreased sibling aggression among the remaining larger juveniles, whereas the removal of larger juveniles increased aggression among smaller juveniles. The algal feeding rate of juveniles only increased when larger individuals were removed from the nest. Moreover, larger juveniles attained higher growth rates and remained in natal nests longer than smaller individuals. Our results indicate that sibling aggression may facilitate the monopolization of resources by larger juveniles and extend the parental care period. Interestingly, a small subset of juveniles was observed to migrate to other nests. These juveniles were larger than those of the host brood, and their growth rate increased within the new nests. We suggest that subordinate juveniles may disperse from natal nests and sneak into new nests to enhance their rank, which may represent a novel example of a “best of a bad job” strategy associated with sibling competition.
Concomitant diabetes with atrial fibrillation and anticoagulation management considerations
Authors: Kreutz Reinhold , Camm A John , Rossing Peter
Published: December 2020

Atrial fibrillation is a highly prevalent cardiac arrhythmia. It is associated with numerous co mobilities. Approximately 30% of diabetic patients have atrial fibrillation and 15% of atrial fibrillation regulation patients have diabetes mellitus. Diabetes increases the likelihood of the development of atrial fibrillation and contributes to the high risk of thromboembolism seen in patients with both diabetes and atrial fibrillation. Chronic kidney disease is often a consequence of diabetes and presents an additional challenge to the management of patients with both atrial fibrillation and diabetes. All non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants are partially eliminated via the kidney and must be carefully prescribed according to strict dosing schedules to avoid anticoagulation overdose. However, NOACs have the advantage of being associated with less progressive impairment of renal function compared with vitamin K antagonist therapy in both diabetics and non-diabetics. Otherwise, diabetic patients benefit from NOAC therapy as opposed to vitamin K antagonists to a similar extent as patients without diabetes. This review deals with anticoagulation treatment in patients with fibrillation and diabetes mellitus, often complicated by progressive renal impairment.
Glyco-engineered HEK 293-F cell lines for the production of therapeutic glycoproteins with humanN-glycosylation and improved pharmacokinetics
Authors: Uhler Rico , Popa-Wagner Ruth , Kröning Mario , Brehm Anja , Rennert Paul , Seifried Annegrit , Peschke Madeleine , Krieger Markus , Kohla Guido , Kannicht Christoph , Wiedemann Philipp , Hafner Mathias , Rosenlöcher Julia
Published: December 2020

N-glycosylated proteins produced in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK 293) cells often carry terminal N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) and only low levels of sialylation. On therapeutic proteins, such N-glycans often trigger rapid clearance from the patient's bloodstream via efficient binding to asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGP-R) and mannose receptor (MR). This currently limits the use of HEK 293 cells for therapeutic protein production. To eliminate terminal GalNAc, we knocked-out GalNAc transferases B4GALNT3 and B4GALNT4 by CRISPR/Cas9 in FreeStyle 293-F cells. The resulting cell line produced a coagulation factor VII-albumin fusion protein without GalNAc but with increased sialylation. This glyco-engineered protein bound less efficiently to both the ASGP-R and MR in vitro and it showed improved recovery, terminal half-life and area under the curve in pharmacokinetic rat experiments. By overexpressing sialyltransferases ST6GAL1 and ST3GAL6 in B4GALNT3 and B4GALNT4 knock-out cells, we further increased factor VII-albumin sialylation; for ST6GAL1 even to the level of human plasma-derived factor VII. Simultaneous knock-out of B4GALNT3 and B4GALNT4 and overexpression of ST6GAL1 further lowered factor VII-albumin binding to ASGP-R and MR. This novel glyco-engineered cell line is well-suited for the production of factor VII-albumin and presumably other therapeutic proteins with fully human N-glycosylation and superior pharmacokinetic properties.
Innovating the Personalization of Stratified Survivorship Care Pathways: Using a Cancer Data Ecosystem to Improve Care Access, Outcomes, Efficiency, and Costs
Authors: Alfano Catherine M , Suarez-Almazor Maria , Rodriguez Maria Alma , Palos Guadalupe R , Gilmore Katherine R
Published: December 2020

New models of survivorship care are needed that improve outcomes for the growing number of cancer survivors, address the increasing complexity of their health needs, and deal with the shortage of clinicians and rising costs of this care. Technology can aid the delivery of personalized, stratified survivorship care pathways where the intensity of care, the care setting, and the providers required for that care vary with survivors’ needs. Building a cancer data ecosystem of connected data streams that supports and learns from each patient can be used to streamline care, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and facilitate research. This manuscript describes the input, analytics, and output components of the cancer data ecosystem that must be built and connected and also provides a real-world use case of how such a system could transform care in a large US comprehensive cancer center.
Bidirectional Genetic Control of Phenotypic Heterogeneity and Its Implication for Cancer Drug Resistance
Authors: Mo Ning , Zhang Xiaoyu , Shi Wenjun , Yu Gongwang , Chen Xiaoshu , Yang Jian-Rong
Published: December 2020

Negative genetic regulators of phenotypic heterogeneity, or phenotypic capacitors/stabilizers, elevate population average fitness by limiting deviation from the optimal phenotype and increase the efficacy of natural selection by enhancing the phenotypic differences among genotypes. Stabilizers can presumably be switched off to release phenotypic heterogeneity in the face of extreme or fluctuating environments to ensure population survival. This task could, however, also be achieved by positive genetic regulators of phenotypic heterogeneity, or “phenotypic diversifiers,” as shown by recently reported evidence that a bacterial divisome factor enhances antibiotic resistance. We hypothesized that such active creation of phenotypic heterogeneity by diversifiers, which is functionally independent of stabilizers, is more common than previously recognized. Using morphological phenotypic data from 4,718 single-gene knockout strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we systematically identified 324 stabilizers and 160 diversifiers and constructed a bipartite network between these genes and the morphological traits they control. Further analyses showed that, compared with stabilizers, diversifiers tended to be weaker and more promiscuous (regulating more traits) regulators targeting traits unrelated to fitness. Moreover, there is a general division of labor between stabilizers and diversifiers. Finally, by incorporating NCI-60 human cancer cell line anticancer drug screening data, we found that human one-to-one orthologs of yeast diversifiers/stabilizers likely regulate the anticancer drug resistance of human cancer cell lines, suggesting that these orthologs are potential targets for auxiliary treatments. Our study therefore highlights stabilizers and diversifiers as the genetic regulators for the bidirectional control of phenotypic heterogeneity as well as their distinct evolutionary roles and functional independence.
Why Standing to Blame May Be Lost but Authority to Hold Accountable Retained: Criminal Law as a Regulative Public Institution
Authors: Lacey Nicola , Pickard Hanna
Published: December 2020

Moral and legal philosophy are too entangled: moral philosophy is prone to model interpersonal moral relationships on a juridical image, and legal philosophy often proceeds as if the criminal law is an institutional reflection of juridically imagined interpersonal moral relationships. This article challenges this alignment and in so doing argues that the function of the criminal law lies not fundamentally in moral blame, but in regulation of harmful conduct. The upshot is that, in contrast to interpersonal relationships, the criminal law cannot lose its standing to blame through institutional analogues of hypocrisy, complicity, and meddling. Rather, certain forms of structural and severe historical and contemporary injustice point to the question of the overall legitimacy of state authority.
Effects of Cryotherapy Applied at Different Temperatures on Inflammatory Pain During the Acute Phase of Arthritis in Rats
Authors: Sasaki Ryo , Sakamoto Junya , Kondo Yasutaka , Oga Satoshi , Takeshita Idumi , Honda Yuichiro , Kataoka Hideki , Origuchi Tomoki , Okita Minoru
Published: December 2020

Objective

The biological mechanisms of cryotherapy for managing acute pain remain unclear. Additionally, it is unknown whether the effectiveness of cryotherapy depends on the applied temperature. This study aimed to clarify the biological effects of cryotherapy and to examine the therapeutic effects of cryotherapy applied at different temperatures in rats.

Methods

This was an experimental study using a rat knee joint arthritis model. Thirty-five Wistar rats were randomly divided into arthritis (AR), arthritis with 5°C cryotherapy (CR-5), arthritis with 10°C cryotherapy (CR-10), and sham-arthritis control (CON) groups. Arthritis was induced by injecting a mixture of kaolin/carrageenan into the right knee joint. Cryotherapy was applied for 7 days starting the day after injection by immersing the right knee joint in 5°C or 10°C water. Joint transverse diameter, pressure pain threshold, and pain-related behaviors were assessed for 7 days. The number of CD68-positive cells in the knee joint and the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide in the spinal dorsal horn 8 days after injection were analyzed by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

Improvements in transverse diameter, pressure pain threshold, and pain-related behaviors were observed in the CR-5 and CR-10 groups on the 3rd day compared with the AR group. The number of CD68-positive cells and the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide in the CR-5 and CR-10 groups were significantly decreased compared with the AR group. There were no significant differences in all results between the CR-5 and CR-10 groups.

Conclusions

Cryotherapy can ameliorate inflammatory pain through reduction of synovium and central sensitization. Additionally, the effects of cryotherapy lower than 10°C are observed independent of applied temperature.

Impact

Cryotherapy may be beneficial as a physical therapy modality for pain and swelling management in the acute phase of inflammation. Translational human study is needed to determine the effective cryotherapy temperature for the inflammatory pain.
Utilization of Safe Fall Landing Strategies in Physical Therapist Management of Geriatric Populations: A Case Report
Authors: Kinney S G , Kiesel J D
Published: December 2020

Objective

Safe fall landing strategies (SFLS) have shown promise to decrease injury during falls but have been examined primarily in young, healthy populations. There is emerging evidence to suggest SFLS can be safe and effective for a geriatric population; however, this intervention has not been examined in a clinical physical therapist practice setting. This case study seeks to determine how SFLS can be incorporated into a physical therapy program with a geriatric population.

Methods (Case Description)

A 77-year-old woman reported imbalance and inability to return to her previous active lifestyle. Multiple SFLS were implemented during the course of physical therapist management. Controlled fall heights were gradually progressed over the course of therapy.

Results

Gains in Patient Specific Functional Scale score (initial score = 2.5, discharge score = 8), static balance, and ability to perform floor-to-waist lifting were seen following physical therapist intervention that included SFLS. The patient was able to perform a back fall and a front fall from a standing position and reported no adverse side effects throughout the course of physical therapist care.

Conclusion

This case report demonstrates how SFLS were safely and pragmatically progressed for 1 patient in a clinical physical therapy setting. SFLS may have the potential to improve patient outcomes and even decrease the risks associated with falls, though further evaluation is needed.

Impact

This case report introduces SFLS as an emerging intervention in the clinical physical therapist practice setting. This case report should encourage future research needed to assess the effectiveness and safety of this treatment strategy in physical therapy.
The Factors That Influenced Medical Students’ Decision to Work Within the NHS During the COVID-19 Pandemic—A National, Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Georgiou Ioannis , Hounat Adam , Park Jay J. , Gillespie Conor , Bandyopadhyay Soham , Saunders Kate E.A.
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

Medical students across the United Kingdom helped the National Health Service (NHS) with the increased workload caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study was conducted to better understand the implications of COVID-19 on the intricate relationship between the psychological wellbeing of students and working within the NHS.

Method:

This was a cross-sectional, national UK study analyzing the self-reported pandemic anxiety scale (PAS) of participants during the pandemic, using an online questionnaire.

Results:

25.2% of participants worked within the NHS. Working significantly reduced anxiety levels of participants. Concerns around the training and information provided on personal protective equipment (PPE) (odds ratio [OR] 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] OR: 1.93, 3.43) (P < 0.001) and Ethnicity (OR 2.15, 95% CI OR: 1.54, 2.99) (P < 0.001) were the most significant covariates affecting the likelihood of working.

Conclusion:

Working during the pandemic was influenced by age, ethnicity, and information surrounding PPE. On average those who worked experienced less anxiety and were more cheerful and energetic.
Workplace Mental Health Awareness Training
Authors: Tan Leona , Harvey Samuel B. , Deady Mark , Dobson Mark , Donohoe Alison , Suk Curie , Paterson Helen , Bryant Richard
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To investigate the efficacy of a workplace mental health awareness training program on help-seeking and mental health outcomes.

Methods:

A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted comparing those who received standard training (N = 210) or standard training with a mental health awareness module (N = 208). Both groups were followed up for 3 years with the primary outcome being likelihood to seek help.

Results:

Rates of likely help-seeking were slightly higher in the intervention group 6 months after the training, but this was not maintained over time. There was no significant difference between study conditions for mental health outcomes or actual help-seeking among those with probable mental disorder at any time point.

Conclusions:

Workplace mental health awareness training has a limited short-term impact on likelihood of help-seeking and does not appear to improve mental health outcomes.
State of the art of genetic studies in hemophilia carriers
Authors: Vidal Francisco
Published: December 2020

The new molecular tools and, remarkably the next-generation sequencing (NGS), have driven not only rapid and confident genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis in hemophilia but also advanced reproductive alternatives, such as preimplantation and noninvasive prenatal diagnoses. Moreover, such tools also allow the research and provide solutions to other problems associated with women carriers of hemophilia. For example, the study of unbalanced inactivation of the X chromosomes as etiology of hemorrhagic symptoms in women. Also allow to perform genetic studies in sporadic hemophilia (i.e., families without a previous disease history). Determining the origin of the mutation in such families is crucial since has important consequences for genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis. With the new technological alternatives, it is possible to detect mosaicisms, improving the prediction of the likelihood of hemophilia transmission. However, the most revolutionary in carrier genetics will probably arrive in the coming years with the global application of NGS to studies that will allow, for example, to identify the presence of fetal mutations in the mother's plasma sample or the establishment of the complete genome sequencing as a routine widespread practice in newborns.
The relationship between magnesium levels and mortality in the respiratory intensive care unit
Authors: Cirik Mustafa Özgür , Kilinç Mukaddes , Doğanay Güler Eraslan , Ünver Meriç , Yildiz Murat , Avci Sema
Published: December 2020

Magnesium deficiency is defined as a pathophysiologic factor in numerous illnesses. This study aims to define the effects of magnesium levels on patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) regarding length of stay in the ICU, length of mechanical ventilation (MV), and 28-day mortality.

The following data were collected during initial assessment of patients admitted to the ICU with acute respiratory failure (ARF). Demographic data, magnesium and potassium levels, Charlson's Comorbidity Index (CCI), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores, length of MV, length of hospital stay in the ICU, 28-day mortality, and ICU discharge status.

In the initial serum analysis prior to treatment of patients in the ICU, the mortality rate of the patient group with hypermagnesemia was found to be statistically significant when compared with other magnesium levels (P = .018). Apart from renal failure, ICU mortality is higher in the hypermagnesemia group than other groups.

Hypermagnesemia is an electrolyte abnormality that is generally seen in older individuals and those with serious comorbidity and it can be used in mortality prediction.
The comparison of different acupuncture therapies for post stroke depression
Authors: Rao Chang , Liu Wei , Li Zefang , Nan Xi , Yin Chunsheng , Yang Jipeng , Du Yuzheng
Published: December 2020

Background:

Depression is a common disease which occurs after stroke, affecting approximately one third of stroke survivors at any 1 time after stroke (compared with 5%–13% of adults without stroke), with a cumulative incidence of 55%. Acupuncture, which has a long history in China, is the generic name of different kinds of acupuncture therapies, including manual acupuncture (MA), electroacupuncture (EA), fire needle (FN), dry needling (DN), and so on. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has a good therapeutic effect on post stroke depression (PSD), but the evidence-based medicine of it is insufficient. The purpose of this study is to systematically evaluate the efficacy of different kinds of acupuncture therapies in the treatment of PSD, and to provide evidence-based basis for the clinical application of acupuncture in the treatment of PSD.

Methods:

A systematic search will be performed on English databases (PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase) and Chinese databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang Data, VIP and Chinese biomedical databases). The retrieval time limit will be from the establishment of the database to August 2020. Two researchers will independently screen the literatures, extract data, and evaluate the quality of the included studies. Bayesian network analysis will be conducted by using STATA V.14.0 and ADDIS V.1.16.7.

Results:

In this study, the efficacy of different kinds of acupuncture therapies in the treatment of PSD will be evaluated by the degree of reduction in depression, total numbers of adverse events, quality of life indices, improvement of social and life functions and the expression of nerve cell factors.

Conclusions:

This study will provide reliable evidence-based evidence for the clinical application of acupuncture in PSD.