bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of bi-directional causal association between depression and cardiovascular diseases: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Gloria Hoi-Yee , Cheung Ching-Lung , Chung Albert Kar-Kin , Cheung Bernard Man-Yung , Wong Ian Chi-Kei , Fok Marcella Lei Yee , Au Philip Chun-Ming , Sham Pak-Chung
Published: October 2020

Background

Depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are associated with each other but their relationship remains unclear. We aim to determine whether genetic predisposition to depression are causally linked to CVD [including coronary artery disease (CAD), myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF)].

Methods

Using summary statistics from the largest genome-wide association studies (GWAS) or GWAS meta-analysis of depression (primary analysis: n = 500 199), broad depression (help-seeking behavior for problems with nerves, anxiety, tension or depression; secondary analysis: n = 322 580), CAD (n = 184 305), MI (n = 171 875), stroke (n = 446 696) and AF (n = 1 030 836), genetic correlation was tested between two depression phenotypes and CVD [MI, stroke and AF (not CAD as its correlation was previously confirmed)]. Causality was inferred between correlated traits by Mendelian Randomization analyses.

Results

Both depression phenotypes were genetically correlated with MI (depression: rG = 0.169; p = 9.03 × 10−9; broad depression: rG = 0.123; p = 1 × 10−4) and AF (depression: rG = 0.112; p = 7.80 × 10−6; broad depression: rG = 0.126; p = 3.62 × 10−6). Genetically doubling the odds of depression was causally associated with increased risk of CAD (OR = 1.099; 95% CI 1.031–1.170; p = 0.004) and MI (OR = 1.146; 95% CI 1.070–1.228; p = 1.05 × 10−4). Adjustment for blood lipid levels/smoking status attenuated the causality between depression and CAD/MI. Null causal association was observed for CVD on depression. A similar pattern of results was observed in the secondary analysis for broad depression.

Conclusions

Genetic predisposition to depression may have positive causal roles on CAD/MI. Genetic susceptibility to self-awareness of mood problems may be a strong causal risk factor of CAD/MI. Blood lipid levels and smoking may potentially mediate the causal pathway. Prevention and early diagnosis of depression are important in the management of CAD/MI.
Predicting depression outcomes throughout inpatient treatment using the general and specific personality disorder factors
Authors: Constantinou Matthew P. , Frueh B. Christopher , Fowler J. Christopher , Allen Jon G. , Madan Alok , Oldham John M. , Fonagy Peter
Published: October 2020

Background

Clinical intuition suggests that personality disorders hinder the treatment of depression, but research findings are mixed. One reason for this might be the way in which current assessment measures conflate general aspects of personality disorders, such as overall severity, with specific aspects, such as stylistic tendencies. The goal of this study was to clarify the unique contributions of the general and specific aspects of personality disorders to depression outcomes.

Methods

Patients admitted to the Menninger Clinic, Houston, between 2012 and 2015 (N = 2352) were followed over a 6–8-week course of multimodal inpatient treatment. Personality disorder symptoms were assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition Axis II Personality Screening Questionnaire at admission, and depression severity was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 every fortnight. General and specific personality disorder factors estimated with a confirmatory bifactor model were used to predict latent growth curves of depression scores in a structural equation model.

Results

The general factor predicted higher initial depression scores but not different rates of change. By contrast, the specific borderline factor predicted slower rates of decline in depression scores, while the specific antisocial factor predicted a U shaped pattern of change.

Conclusions

Personality disorder symptoms are best represented by a general factor that reflects overall personality disorder severity, and specific factors that reflect unique personality styles. The general factor predicts overall depression severity while specific factors predict poorer prognosis which may be masked in prior studies that do not separate the two.
Between loneliness and belonging: narratives of social isolation among immigrant older adults in Canada
Authors: Koehn Sharon , Ferrer Ilyan , Brotman Shari
Published: October 2020

Research points to a higher risk for social isolation and loneliness among new immigrant and refugee older adults. Our article draws from a research project that explored the everyday stories of ageing among 19 diverse immigrant older adults in Canada. To capture their experiences of loneliness and social isolation, we use four illustrative cases derived from a structural approach to life-story narrative. To these we apply the intersectional lifecourse analytical lens to examine how life events, timing and structural forces shape our participants’ experiences of social isolation and loneliness. We further explore the global and linked lives of our participants as well as the categories of difference that influence their experiences along the continua of loneliness to belonging, isolation to connection. Finally, we discuss how an understanding of sources of domination and expressions of agency and resistance to these forces might lead us to solutions.
Introduction to the special issue: Unification
Authors: Ayala-Rincón Mauricio , Balbiani Philippe
Published: October 2020

In the days of its foundation, the field of science covered by UNIF – a series of annual international workshops on unification – was still in its infancy. With the advent of automated reasoning, term rewriting, logic programming, natural language processing, and program analysis, the areas of computer science concerned by unification were seething with excitement. With the coming out of researches in constraint solving and admissibility of inference rules and with the breaking out of applications, such as type checking, query answering, and cryptographic protocol analysis, the development of unification was not long in going at full speed.
Families, Work and Care: Qualitative Longitudinal Research and Policy Engagement
Authors: Millar Jane
Published: October 2020

Qualitative longitudinal research can make a distinctive contribution to policy discussions and to the assessment of outcomes. This article draws on research with lone-parent families over fifteen years to illustrate how change and continuity can look different over shorter and longer time periods, to discuss presenting longitudinal qualitative evidence through the selection of case studies, and to explore some of the challenges of engaging in policy debates with qualitative data.
European Professors at the Cursos Latinoamericanos de Música Contemporánea: Two experiences – Piriápolis, 1974; Buenos Aires, 1977
Authors: CORRADO OMAR
Published: October 2020

Between 1971 and 1989, fifteen editions of the Cursos Latinoamericanos de Música Contemporánea (Latin American Contemporary Music Courses) took place alternatively in five countries of the continent. These were intensive meetings concentrated in two weeks, consisting of classes, workshops, seminars, conferences, and concerts. One of the central concerns was contemporary art music composition, although an important space was also given to performance, technologies, innovative pedagogies, popular music, and musicology. Around 150 lecturers from different countries took part in the courses, among them, about forty-five were European. On the one hand, the courses aimed at providing updated information on contemporary international musical life. On the other hand, they encouraged its critical evaluation in relation to the history, culture, and concrete practices of Latin American musicians. This article analyses exchanges between Latin American and European musicians regarding compositional techniques, theoretical perspectives, repertoires, aesthetics, and ideological positions during the 1974 and 1977 editions of the Cursos.
Pulsating white dwarfs and convection
Authors: Provencal J. L. , Montgomery M. H. , Shipman H. L. ,   The WET Team
Published: October 2020

Convection is a highly turbulent, three dimensional process that is traditionally treated using a simple, local, time independent description. Convection is one of the largest sources of theoretical uncertainty in stellar modeling. We outline recent progress in studies using pulsating white dwarfs to constrain convection and calibrate mixing length theory.
Ensemble evolutionary studies of white dwarfs in open star clusters
Authors: Williams Kurtis A
Published: October 2020

White dwarfs (WDs) in open star clusters are a highly useful ensemble of stars. While numerous researchers use open cluster WDs to study the initial-final mass relation, numerous other evolutionary studies are also enabled by this sample of stars, including searches for stochastic mass loss, studies of binary star evolution, and measurements of metallicity impacts on WD formation and evolution. However, it is crucial to use astrometric data such as proper motions to remove contaminating field WDs from open cluster samples; multi-epoch ground based imaging is needed for most open cluster WDs. Also, the strongly correlated errors in the initial mass - final mass plane must be considered; we illustrate the importance of this consideration using a large open cluster WD sample and Monte Carlo techniques.
Reply to Comment by Mandel et al. on “Numerically Bounded Linguistic Probability Schemes Are Unlikely to Communicate Uncertainty Effectively”
Authors: King Andrew D. , Perkins‐Kirkpatrick Sarah E. , Wehner Michael F. , Lewis Sophie C.
Published: October 2020

We thank the Comment's authors for their considered critique of our paper. We respond to their main criticisms and hope that this discussion motivates further consideration of communication strategies for event attribution analyses.
Pollution over the Tibetan Plateau Linked to Sea Ice Loss in the Arctic
Authors: Allen Michael
Published: October 2020

New research suggests an atmospheric connection between Arctic sea ice melt and anthropogenic aerosol pollution over the Tibetan Plateau.
Mesospheric Gravity Wave Momentum Flux Associated With a Large Thunderstorm Complex
Authors: Smith Steven M. , Setvák Martin , Beletsky Yuri , Baumgardner Jeffrey , Mendillo Michael
Published: October 2020

We report on estimates of the vertical flux of horizontal momentum associated with an extensive and bright mesospheric gravity wave event that occurred over the El Leoncito Observatory, Argentina (31.8°S, 69.3°W), during the night of 17–18 March 2016. Using a combination of ground‐based and space‐based data sources, we propose that the event was generated by a large and distant thunderstorm complex located to the southeast of the observation site. The nightglow, including the wave structures, was easily visible to naked eye observers, a phenomenon known as a Bright Night. Such “extreme events” illuminate the important role of upward coupling in space weather research.
Effects of Geochemical and Environmental Parameters on Abiotic Organic Chemistry Driven by Iron Hydroxide Minerals
Authors: Barge L. M. , Flores E. , VanderVelde D. G. , Weber J. M. , Baum M. M. , Castonguay A.
Published: October 2020

Geological conditions play a significant role in prebiotic/abiotic organic chemistry, especially when reactive minerals are present. Previous studies of the prebiotic synthesis of amino acids and other products in mineral‐containing systems have shown that a diverse array of compounds can be produced, depending on the experimental conditions. However, these previous experiments have not simulated the effects of varying geochemical conditions, in which factors such as pH, iron redox state, or chemical concentrations may vary over time and space in a natural environment. In geochemical systems that contain overlapping gradients, many permutations of individual conditions could exist and affect the outcome of an organic reaction network. We investigated reactions of pyruvate and glyoxylate, two compounds that are central to the emergence of metabolism, in simulated geological gradients of redox, pH, and ammonia concentration. Our results show that the positioning of pyruvate/glyoxylate reactions in this environmental parameter space determines the organic product distribution that results. Therefore, the distribution pattern of amino acids and alpha‐hydroxy acids produced prebiotically in a system reflects the specific reaction conditions, and would be distinct at various locations in an environment depending on local geochemistry. This is significant for origin of life chemistry in which the composition and function of oligomers could be affected by the environmentally driven distribution of monomers available. Also, for astrobiology and planetary science where organic distribution patterns are sometimes considered as a possible biosignature, it is important to consider environmentally driven abiotic organic reactions that might produce similar effects.
Repulsion leads to coupled dislocation motion and extended work hardening in bcc metals
Authors: Srivastava K. , Weygand D. , Caillard D. , Gumbsch P.
Published: October 2020

Work hardening in bcc single crystals at low homologous temperature shows a strong orientation-dependent hardening for high symmetry loading, which is not captured by classical dislocation density based models. We demonstrate here that the high activation barrier for screw dislocation glide motion in tungsten results in repulsive interactions between screw dislocations, and triggers dislocation motion at applied loading conditions where it is not expected. In situ transmission electron microscopy and atomistically informed discrete dislocation dynamics simulations confirm coupled dislocation motion and vanishing obstacle strength for repulsive screw dislocations, compatible with the kink pair mechanism of dislocation motion in the thermally activated (low temperature) regime. We implement this additional contribution to plastic strain in a modified crystal plasticity framework and show that it can explain the extended work hardening regime observed for [100] oriented tungsten single crystal. This may contribute to better understanding the increase in ductility of highly deformed bcc metals.
An embryonic stem cell-specific heterochromatin state promotes core histone exchange in the absence of DNA accessibility
Authors: Navarro Carmen , Lyu Jing , Katsori Anna-Maria , Caridha Rozina , Elsässer Simon J.
Published: October 2020

Nucleosome turnover concomitant with incorporation of the replication-independent histone variant H3.3 is a hallmark of regulatory regions in the animal genome. Nucleosome turnover is known to be universally linked to DNA accessibility and histone acetylation. In mouse embryonic stem cells, H3.3 is also highly enriched at interstitial heterochromatin, most prominently at intracisternal A-particle endogenous retroviral elements. Interstitial heterochromatin is established over confined domains by the TRIM28-KAP1/SETDB1 corepressor complex and has stereotypical features of repressive chromatin, such as H3K9me3 and recruitment of all HP1 isoforms. Here, we demonstrate that fast histone turnover and H3.3 incorporation is compatible with these hallmarks of heterochromatin. Further, we find that Smarcad1 chromatin remodeler evicts nucleosomes generating accessible DNA. Free DNA is repackaged via DAXX-mediated nucleosome assembly with histone variant H3.3 in this dynamic heterochromatin state. Loss of H3.3 in mouse embryonic stem cells elicits a highly specific opening of interstitial heterochromatin with minimal effects on other silent or active regions of the genome.
Toward three-dimensional hybrid inorganic/organic optoelectronics based on GaN/oCVD-PEDOT structures
Authors: Krieg Linus , Meierhofer Florian , Gorny Sascha , Leis Stefan , Splith Daniel , Zhang Zhipeng , von Wenckstern Holger , Grundmann Marius , Wang Xiaoxue , Hartmann Jana , Margenfeld Christoph , Manglano Clavero Irene , Avramescu Adrian , Schimpke Tilman , Scholz Dominik , Lugauer Hans-Jürgen , Strassburg Martin , Jungclaus Jörgen , Bornemann Steffen , Spende Hendrik , Waag Andreas , Gleason Karen K. , Voss Tobias
Published: October 2020

The combination of inorganic semiconductors with organic thin films promises new strategies for the realization of complex hybrid optoelectronic devices. Oxidative chemical vapor deposition (oCVD) of conductive polymers offers a flexible and scalable path towards high-quality three-dimensional inorganic/organic optoelectronic structures. Here, hole-conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) grown by oxidative chemical vapor deposition is used to fabricate transparent and conformal wrap-around p-type contacts on three-dimensional microLEDs with large aspect ratios, a yet unsolved challenge in three-dimensional gallium nitride technology. The electrical characteristics of two-dimensional reference structures confirm the quasi-metallic state of the polymer, show high rectification ratios, and exhibit excellent thermal and temporal stability. We analyze the electroluminescence from a three-dimensional hybrid microrod/polymer LED array and demonstrate its improved optical properties compared with a purely inorganic microrod LED. The findings highlight a way towards the fabrication of hybrid three-dimensional optoelectronics on the sub-micron scale.
A population-based cohort study of socio-demographic risk factors for COVID-19 deaths in Sweden
Authors: Drefahl Sven , Wallace Matthew , Mussino Eleonora , Aradhya Siddartha , Kolk Martin , Brandén Maria , Malmberg Bo , Andersson Gunnar
Published: October 2020

As global deaths from COVID-19 continue to rise, the world’s governments, institutions, and agencies are still working toward an understanding of who is most at risk of death. In this study, data on all recorded COVID-19 deaths in Sweden up to May 7, 2020 are linked to high-quality and accurate individual-level background data from administrative registers of the total population. By means of individual-level survival analysis we demonstrate that being male, having less individual income, lower education, not being married all independently predict a higher risk of death from COVID-19 and from all other causes of death. Being an immigrant from a low- or middle-income country predicts higher risk of death from COVID-19 but not for all other causes of death. The main message of this work is that the interaction of the virus causing COVID-19 and its social environment exerts an unequal burden on the most disadvantaged members of society.
Automated quantification of Candida albicans biofilm-related phenotypes reveals additive contributions to biofilm production
Authors: Dunn Matthew J. , Fillinger Robert J. , Anderson Leah M. , Anderson Matthew Z.
Published: October 2020

Biofilms are organized communities of microbial cells that promote persistence among bacterial and fungal species. Biofilm formation by host-associatedCandidaspecies of fungi occurs on both tissue surfaces and implanted devices, contributing to host colonization and disease. InC. albicans, biofilms are built sequentially by adherence of yeast to a surface, invasion into the substrate, the formation of aerial hyphal projections, and the secretion of extracellular matrix. Measurement of these biofilm-related phenotypes remains highly qualitative and often subjective. Here, we designed an informatics pipeline for quantifying filamentation, adhesion, and invasion ofCandidaspecies on solid agar media and utilized this approach to determine the importance of these component phenotypes toC. albicansbiofilm production. Characterization of 23C. albicansclinical isolates across three media and two temperatures revealed a wide range of phenotypic responses among isolates in any single condition. Media profoundly altered all biofilm-related phenotypes among these isolates, whereas temperature minimally impacted these traits. Importantly, the extent of biofilm formation correlated significantly with the additive score for its component phenotypes under some conditions, experimentally linking the strength of each component to biofilm mass. In addition, the response of the genome reference strain, SC5314, across these conditions was an extreme outlier compared to all other strains, suggesting it may not be representative of the species. Taken together, development of a high-throughput, unbiased approach to quantifyingCandidabiofilm-related phenotypes linked variability in these phenotypes to biofilm production and can facilitate genetic dissection of these critical processes to pathogenesis in the host.
A broad diversity in oxygen affinity to haemoglobin
Authors: Balcerek Björn , Steinach Mathias , Lichti Julia , Maggioni Martina A. , Becker Philipp N. , Labes Robert , Gunga Hanns-Christian , Persson Pontus B. , Fähling Michael
Published: October 2020

Oxygen affinity to haemoglobin is indicated by the p50 value (pO2 at 50% O2Hb) and critically determines cellular oxygen availability. Although high Hb-O2 affinity can cause tissue hypoxia under conditions of well O2 saturated blood, individual differences in p50 are commonly not considered in clinical routine. Here, we investigated the diversity in Hb-O2 affinity in the context of physiological relevance. Oxyhaemoglobin dissociation curves (ODCs) of 60 volunteers (18–40 years, both sexes, either endurance trained or untrained) were measured at rest and after maximum exercise (VO2max) test. At rest, p50 values of all participants ranged over 7 mmHg. For comparison, right shift of ODC after VO2max test, representing the maximal physiological range to release oxygen to the tissue, indicated a p50 difference of up to 10 mmHg. P50 at rest differs significantly between women and men, with women showing lower Hb-O2 affinity that is determined by higher 2,3-BPG and BPGM levels. Regular endurance exercise did not alter baseline Hb-O2 affinity. Thus, p50 diversity is already high at baseline level and needs to be considered under conditions of impaired tissue oxygenation. For fast prediction of Hb-O2 affinity by blood gas analysis, only venous but not capillary blood samples can be recommended.
Ultrasonographic evaluation of chronic shoulder pain after breast cancer surgery: single center, cross-sectional study
Authors: Kim Jung Hun , Kim Se Hee , Kim Hae-Rim , Lee Sang-Heon , Yoon So Young , Yang Jung-Hyun , Yoo Young Bum , Park Kyoung Sik , Nam Sang Eun , Hong Semie , Min Hong Ki
Published: October 2020

Chronic shoulder pain is a common complication in breast cancer patients after surgery. Chronic shoulder pain after breast cancer surgery was formerly considered as neuropathic pain, however the pathophysiology including structural damages has not been assessed comprehensively. We hypothesized that the structural change could be one of the cause of shoulder pain after breast cancer surgery and evaluated various ultrasonography findings of the shoulder in breast cancer patients with chronic shoulder pain. Patients who were suffering from chronic shoulder pain on unilateral side for at least 3 months after breast cancer surgery were enrolled from a single tertiary hospital. Demographic and clinical data were collected at the baseline. Articular and adjacent structures of both shoulders (painful and contralateral side) were evaluated by ultrasonography. The ultrasonography findings were compared between painful and contralateral sides. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with abnormal ultrasonography findings. Fifty-two female patients (average age of 55) were enrolled. Significantly more abnormal ultrasonography findings were observed in the painful side than in the contralateral side [39 (75.0%) vs 11 (21.2%), P < 0.001]. The coracohumeral ligament was significantly thicker in the painful side than in the contralateral side (2.48 ± 0.69 vs 1.54 ± 1.25 mm, P < 0.001); adhesive capsulitis was also more frequent in the painful side [14 (26.9%) vs 0, P < 0.001]. Furthermore, patients with a history of breast cancer surgery on the ipsilateral side were associated with abnormal ultrasonography findings and adhesive capsulitis. This study is the first to evaluate ultrasonography in patients with chronic shoulder pain after breast cancer surgery. The results showed that ultrasonography could reveal several structural problems in these patients.
Assessment of long non-coding RNA expression reveals novel mediators of the lung tumour immune response
Authors: Sage Adam P. , Ng Kevin W. , Marshall Erin A. , Stewart Greg L. , Minatel Brenda C. , Enfield Katey S. S. , Martin Spencer D. , Brown Carolyn J. , Abraham Ninan , Lam Wan L.
Published: October 2020

The tumour immune microenvironment is a crucial mediator of lung tumourigenesis, and characterizing the immune landscape of patient tumours may guide immunotherapy treatment regimens and uncover novel intervention points. We sought to identify the landscape of tumour-infiltrating immune cells in the context of long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs), known regulators of gene expression. We examined the lncRNA profiles of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumours by interrogating RNA sequencing data from microdissected and non-microdissected samples (BCCRC and TCGA). Subsequently, analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data from lung tumours and flow-sorted healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells identified lncRNAs in immune cells, highlighting their biological and prognostic relevance. We discovered lncRNA expression patterns indicative of regulatory relationships with immune-related protein-coding genes, including the relationship between AC008750.1 and NKG7 in NK cells. Activation of NK cells in vitro was sufficient to induce AC008750.1 expression. Finally, siRNA-mediated knockdown of AC008750.1 significantly impaired both the expression of NKG7 and the anti-tumour capacity of NK cells. We present an atlas of cancer-cell extrinsic immune cell-expressed lncRNAs, in vitro evidence for a functional role of lncRNAs in anti-tumour immune activity, which upon further exploration may reveal novel clinical utility as markers of immune infiltration.
Mechanisms of possible self-limitation in the invasive Asian shore crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus
Authors: Griffen Blaine D. , Bailey James , Carver Jade , Vernier Ashley , DiNuzzo Eleanor R. , Anderson Lars , Meidell Morgan , Potter Ben
Published: October 2020

Population sizes of invasive species are commonly characterized by boom-bust dynamics, and self-limitation via resource depletion is posited as one factor leading to these boom-bust changes in population size. Yet, while this phenomenon is well-documented in plants, few studies have demonstrated that self-limitation is possible for invasive animal species, especially those that are mobile. Here we examined the invasive Asian shore crabHemigrapsus sanguineus, a species that reached very high abundances throughout invaded regions of North America, but has recently declined in many of these same regions. We examined the relationship between diet, energy storage, reproduction, and growth in crabs collected from the New Hampshire coast. We show that energy storage and reproduction both increase with diet quality, while growth declines with diet quality. These results suggest that self-limitation may be a contributing factor to the recent declines ofH. sanguineusat sites where this invader was once much more abundant. Further, these results suggest a diet-associated tradeoff in energy allocation to different vital rates, with a focus on reproduction when high quality resources are consumed, and a focus instead on growth when poor quality resources are consumed.
Biomimetic microenvironmental preconditioning enhance neuroprotective properties of human mesenchymal stem cells derived from Wharton's Jelly (WJ-MSCs)
Authors: Lech Wioletta , Sarnowska Anna , Kuczynska Zuzanna , Dabrowski Filip , Figiel-Dabrowska Anna , Domanska-Janik Krystyna , Buzanska Leonora , Zychowicz Marzena
Published: October 2020

Tuning stem cells microenvironment in vitro may influence their regenerative properties. In this study Wharton's Jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) were encapsulated in 3D hydrogels derived from human fibrin (FB) or platelet lysate (PL) and the oxygen level was adjusted to physiological normoxia (5% O2). The influence of the type of the scaffold and physiological normoxia conditions was tested on the WJ-MSCs' survivability, proliferation, migratory potential, the level of expression of selected trophic factors, cytokines, and neural markers. Encapsulated WJ-MSCs revealed high survivability, stable proliferation rate, and ability to migrate out of the hydrogel and the up-regulated expression of all tested factors, as well as the increased expression of neural differentiation markers. Physiological normoxia stimulated proliferation of encapsulated WJ-MSCs and significantly enhanced their neuronal, but not glial, differentiation. Ex vivo studies with indirect co-culture of organotypic hippocampal slices and cell-hydrogel bio-constructs revealed strong neuroprotective effect of WJ-MSCs against neuronal death in the CA1 region of the rat hippocampus. This effect was potentiated further by FB scaffolds under 5% O2 conditions. Our results indicating significant effect of oxygen and 3D cytoarchitecture suggest the urgent need for further optimization of the microenvironmental conditions to improve therapeutical competence of the WJ-MSCs population.
Insights into the antibacterial activity of cottonseed protein-derived peptide againstEscherichia coli
Authors: Kong Xiangzhen , Song Weiguang , Hua Yufei , Li Xingfei , Chen Yeming , Zhang Caimeng , Chen Yunxia
Published: October 2020

In the study, antibacterial peptides were separated and identified from cottonseed protein hydrolysates and the interactions between antibacterial peptides andEscherichia coliwere further investigated.
Surface defect engineering of mesoporous Cu/ZnS nanocrystal-linked networks for improved visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Daskalakis Ioannis , Vamvasakis Ioannis , Papadas Ioannis T. , Tsatsos Sotirios , Choulis Stelios A. , Kennou Stella , Armatas Gerasimos S.
Published: October 2020

Cu-doped ZnS nanocrystal-linked mesoporous frameworks possessing suitable electronic energy levels, strong visible-light absorption and large porosity with a low defective surface show efficient photocatalytic H2 evolution activity from water splitting.
Visible-light mediated carbonyl trifluoromethylative amination as a practical method for the synthesis of β-trifluoromethyl tertiary alkylamines
Authors: Kolahdouzan Kavoos , Kumar Roopender , Gaunt Matthew J.
Published: October 2020

An operationally straightforward, visible-light-mediated multicomponent strategy for the construction of β-trifluoromethylated tertiary alkylamines from aldehydes, secondary amines and a convenient source of trifluoromethyl iodide is reported.
Comment on “Expression of CD44 and the survival in glioma: a meta-analysis”
Authors: Hou Chongxian , Lin Han , Wang Peng , Yang Yong , Cen Siyi , Zhou Dong
Published: October 2020

CD44 has been considered as a cancer stem cell marker in various tumors. With great enthusiasm, we read an article written by Wu et al. entitled “Expression of CD44 and the survival in glioma: a meta-analysis” published in Bioscience Reports. The authors performed meta-analyses to study the prognostic significance of CD44 in gliomas, and drew the conclusion that high expression of CD44 may predict poor survival in glioma, particularly in WHO grade II–III gliomas. However, two major defects exist in the present study, which made the meta-analysis on the prognostic significance of CD44 in all gliomas unreliable. In this commentary, we discussed the limitations and significance of the present study.
The results of research on tillage rollers with an economic assessment of the effectiveness of their use
Authors: Sharonov Ivan , Кurdyumov Vladimir , Isaev Yuri , Kurushin Viktor
Published: October 2020

The study confirmed the set scientific hypothesis that to improve seed germination and uniformity of germination of cultivated agricultural crops and increase their yields possible while performing operations field preparation, sowing, formation of the desired profile, density and structure of the soil over the sown seeds on the basis of application of innovative methods and means of mechanization of surface tillage. As a result of experimental studies, the design parameters of the developed innovative agricultural tools have been optimized. When combined, they provide the required fine-grained and optimally compacted soil layer, in which the seeds of agricultural crops are located. As recommendations to agricultural production, the actual value of the specific mass of the developed rollers is established, taking into account ballasting loads per 1 m of the width of the grip, the value of which is within 95...160 kg, depending on the shape and design of the working elements, as well as on the properties of the processed medium. In the course of evaluating the metal capacity of innovative agricultural tools and serial ring-spur roller, a difference of 64% per unit of widthof the grip was revealed. Defined increase of productivity when using the developed means of mechanization of surface tillage for spring barley to 14% and 16 %, spring wheat by 11 % and 14 %, winter wheat up to 7% and 9% respectively compared with serial ring-spur roller and disc rollers seeder. Based on the economic assessment of the compared seeding technologies, the annual economic effect of the introduction of innovative tillage rollers was established, which amounted to 64…69 $ by 1 ha of spring barley crops.
Investigation of the force effect of the vibrating working body of the slitter on the soil
Authors: Konstantinov Mikhail , Drozdov Sergey , Mukhamedov Vitaly , Nuralin Beket , Galiev Manarbek
Published: October 2020

The theory of the force action of the working body of the slitter on the ground is considered. It is proposed to divide this force into four components: the force of cutting the material, the force of overcoming the friction forces acting on the ground, the force of cracking the material and the force of resistance of the ground environment. Theoretical dependences for determining the components of the tool’s traction resistance when using vibration are proposed. As a result of theoretical and experimental studies, it was found that due to the vibration effect of the working body of the slot rod, the traction resistance is reduced by 13.8%. The decrease is due to changes in the physical and mechanical properties of the soil under the influence of directional vibrations.
Theoretical background for the development of stationary process of grain mass threshing with a combine harvester
Authors: Lovchikov Alexander P. , Ognev Igor I.
Published: October 2020

The article considers the issue that further improvement of the grain combine design with the classical threshing-separating device is possible due to the development of its technological scheme based on the principle of modular construction and stationary process of threshing grain mass. To achieve this goal, the problems were solved, by which laws were revealed and a mathematical description of the technological process of the combine harvester was given, as well as patterns characterizing the effect of straw on the process of grain mass threshing were revealed. In the course of research and evaluation of the effectiveness of the combine harvester’s usage the basic laws characterizing the technological process of combine harvester with the classical threshing-separating device are established. The change of the working speed of the combine depends on the technological properties of grain crops. It is revealed that the coefficient of solomitol grain mass δс is possible to reduce during combining grain crops through the application of high-cut stems. It was found that with the increase in the height of the cut of the stems (wheat) from 0.10 to 0.20 m, the coefficient of straw content of the grain mass decreases from 0.726 to 0.578. The additional material of experimental studies to determine the coefficient of straw content of the grain mass δc depending on the diameter and length of the pinned part of the stem is presented. When harvesting grain crops by the method of combing, a grain-bearing mass is formed, which is characterized by a random ratio of the fractions of the straw of the stalk of the annular part. The chaotic structure of plant parts temosolomida mass poses new challenges to supply it in the threshing-machine combine harvester with a classic threshingseparating device.
Algorithm of engineering calculation of stability of a multifunctional unit
Authors: Serguntsov Alexander , Serguntsova Viktoria
Published: October 2020

In the MFA under consideration, in addition to the rotary hoe, a front hopper for fertilization is installed on the front hitch of the tractor. According to G. M. Kutkov, it refers to additional equipment which expands the functionality of the tractor. The assessment of the tractor’s load capacity and stability is considered in the works of many educational institutions. We have supplemented these theoretical provisions in relation to the proposed MFA with additional technological equipment of the tractor.
Diversification of lentil production
Authors: Zagoruyko M.G. , Chaplygin M.Ye. , Davydova S.A.
Published: October 2020

Production and processing of lentil as a valuable leguminous crop with a high content of beneficial nutrients (fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins), a low glycemic index, and a low-calorie content (295 kcal per 100 grams of raw lentils) has great potential for domestic economy. The world market of lentil is analyzed, prospects for increasing the level of its use in domestic markets are identified. An evaluation of the crop processing by an extrusion method is given. The statistical data of the Federal State Statistics Service, the Ministry of Agriculture of Russia, information materials of Russian and foreign research organizations and companies are studied. The methods of complex structural-dynamic analysis and the expert-analytical method of data processing are used. It is found that lentils contain the largest amount of protein among the rest of the plants, which is a source of essential amino acids (isoleucine and lysine), and that the use of this crop in feed production along with soya bin is promising and appropriate. Based on the analysis of gross yields of lentil in federal districts of Russia in 2010-2019 and export supplies of the crop revealed that the domestic lentil export market expanded 6.1 times, but the country’s lentil consumption decreased 1.18 times. Thus, in the current economic conditions, the issue of finding the use of lentils as a raw export product and expanding the potential for using lentils in the domestic market is relevant. It is proposed to expand the possibilities of using lentils by extruding it, which will allow to have high quality products with good biological value and consumer properties on the domestic market.
Parameters of the knife-drum type device for separating sweet corn cobs
Authors: Papusha Sergey K. , Nikitenko Nikolay A. , Zhadko Valeria V.
Published: October 2020

The paper considers issues related to the application of the knife-drum type parameters design in order to increase the productivity of the maize harvesters in the phase of milk-wax ripeness. In this regard, energy-saving technologies are required. This device allows you to reduce the percentage of loss and injury of sweet corn grains due to the absence of pressure on the сob.
Technological features of a combined soil processing machine and sprayer
Authors: Papusha Sergey K. , Kotov Dmitry A. , Zhadko Valeria V.
Published: October 2020

The combined unit is used for tillage with simultaneous introduction of protective and stimulating agents. A special feature of the unit is the use of pneumatic slot sprayers, they use a jet-forming device, which is necessary to create a highly dispersed air-drop jet. Agrotechnical requirements for such spraying ensure high quality distribution of the working fluid to the soil surface and supply the required rate of its consumption. The main task of the study of pneumatic slot sprayer was to determine the performance of this sprayer.
Modernization of high pressure fuel pump for operation on mixed rapeseed-mineral fuel
Authors: Averyanov Aleksandr S. , Vlasov Stanislav N. , Rotanov Evgeniy G. , Khokhlov Anton A.
Published: October 2020

The results of experimental studies, the purpose of which is to assess the effect of heating of diesel mixed fuel on the cycle supply and fuel pressure in the supra-plunger space of the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) are presented. A correction device for cyclic fuel supply is presented (RF patent No. 122708). The principle of its action is described. The results of experimental studies of HPFPs with the proposed device for adjusting the cyclic fuel supply are presented.
Development of an automated weather complex for managing agricultural technologies in horticulture
Authors: Khort Dmitriy , Smirnov Igor , Kutyrev Alexey
Published: October 2020

Effective formation and adjustment of technologies for cultivating horticultural crops is possible using modern data management tools. The article presents an agricultural technology management system in horticulture with an automated weather complex. The architecture of the control system is developed. The server module is the core of the system, containing all the business logic of the software package and the data visualization system. Meteo module a complex consisting of weather sensors and a GSM modem that provides remote data transmission from sensors to the server. Mobile application provides the ability to collect data from gardens with photographic and location fixation of objects with subsequent data transfer to the server. The proposed system of automated formation and management of technologies in horticulture provides real-time operational processing of information flows that determine the characteristics of the growth and condition of plants in critical phases of their development from modern recording devices.
Automated attachment device for controlling position of agricultural implements in an aggregate
Authors: Semichev Stepan , Smirnov Igor , Filippov Rostislav , Kutyrev Alexey
Published: October 2020

Improving the controllability of mounted agricultural implements as part of the unit during soil cultivation and planting crops is an important condition for obtaining high yields. The article presents the results of a field experiment developed by a controlled attachment (UNU-3) designed to improve the accuracy of various technological operations. Recommendations on its use are given. The process of functioning of the device is described. It was determined that this device will allow to increase the level of positioning of the landing tool in the unit, by minimizing the lateral displacement of the agricultural implement. The device will allow the agricultural implement and tractor to be on the established path with an accuracy of 2.5 cm.
Classification of bulk material from the gas flow in a device with coaxially arranged pipes
Authors: Zinurov V. E. , Dmitriev A. V. , Ruzanova M. A. , Dmitrieva O. S.
Published: October 2020

The paper deals with the problem of classification of bulk material, based on silica gel, larger than 30 µm, from dusty gas flow. In order to solve this problem, the design of a classifier with coaxially arranged pipes is proposed. According to the conducted studies, it is more efficient to use a classifier with an inner conical pipe to solve the problems of separating the particles from the gas flows of various sizes, since a greater value is achieved for the centrifugal, inertial, gravitational and other forces acting on the dusty flow, that contribute to knocking the particles out of its structure, than in a classifier with a cylindrical inner pipe. On average, the efficiency of a classifier with a conical inner pipe is by 35.3% higher than that of a classifier with a cylindrical inner pipe. Classification of particles of bulk material, based on silica gel, larger than 30 µm from the dusty gas flows is solved most effectively by using a classifier with a conical inner pipe and hd parameter of 50 mm and a classifier with a cylindrical inner pipe and hd parameter of –10 mm.
Working process for installing snow melting plants with active working element
Authors: Serebrennikov Anatoly A. , Plohov Andrey A.
Published: October 2020

Based on the operating experience analysis of snow melting plants and the proposed patent solutions for their improvement, a new design is developed. Operability of the new design, in which rotation of the working bodies is carried out under the influence of the supplied coolant’s pressure, is confirmed. The study of the working process is based on an experimental method based on physical modeling. The influence of individual factors affecting the intensity and efficiency and enabling to determine the dimensionless similarity equations, is studied. Based on the results obtained, a pilot plant is designed, created, and tested under real operating conditions.
Development of microprocessor control system of robotic platform for weed vegetation control
Authors: Dyshekov A.I. , Mirzaev М.A. , Smirnov I.G.
Published: October 2020

This paper has studied the use of electronic components for automation of robotic complex of weed vegetation control. The components are selected and the interconnection scheme between them is developed for the correct operation of the system in field conditions. This selection was realized because it combines simplicity and efficiency and is a promising and actively developing industry of robotics. At present there are few foreign analogues offering ready-made solutions for automatic control of robotic systems for weed control.
Automated stand for the study of injectors made of polymer materials for hydraulic weed destruction
Authors: Khort Dmitriy , Shutenko Alexander , Filippov Rostislav , Semichev Stepan
Published: October 2020

The work describes a new technological process for weed destruction and tillage in the near-stem zones of fruit trees and covers the prospects for studying the hydraulic method of weed destruction. The quality of hydraulic tillage and weed destruction has been determined to be conditioned by the shape and the required pressure of the jet. The results of theoretical calculations and initial tests show that an automated stand is needed for nozzles’ testing and optimizing the operating modes of the hydraulic device. A working body and an automated stand have been designed to study the parameters of nozzles made of polymer materials and the impact of the working body on various weeds and soil surfaces.
Protein quality of winter wheat depending on the dressing with sulfur-containing nitrogen fertilizers applied in early spring
Authors: Mudarisov F.A. , Kostin V.I. , Isaev Yu.M. , Semashkina A.I. , Semashkin N.M. , Sadygova M.K.
Published: October 2020

The paper contains the study results of the effect of sulfurcontaining nitrogen fertilizers on the quality of protein in winter wheat grain grown in the Ulyanovsk region on soils with a lack of sulfur. The experimental crop is soft winter wheat, the variety “Saratovskaya – 17”. As a result, it was found that the biological value of protein compared to the control option increased by 11.5% in the option with the use of 5% of sulfur.
On the problem of interaction of the tillage working body with the soil
Authors: Belousov Sergey V. , Samurganov Evgeny E.
Published: October 2020

The article is devoted to the main soil treatment with disk working bodies. The article has a research character, which is expressed in the fact that the theoretical analysis of the interaction with the soil, as well as excerpts from the works of leading scientists on the subject under study, which provide optimal soil treatment and their shortcomings and ways to solve these problems are indicated. Equations obtained allow us to determine the movement of a particle on the surface of the disk’s blade at the moment of its operation. The disk shape is theoretically justified. In conclusion, the main results achieved so far are presented.