bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oil-balzamic antiseptics for non-specific therapy of heilitis in dentistry practice
Authors: Karakov K. G. , Vlasova T. N. , Oganyan A. V. , Semyonov R. R. , Khachaturyan A. E. , Sarkisov A. A. , Timircheva V. V.
Published: December 2019

A comparative analysis of the method of treatment of meteorological cheilitis with the use of oil-balsamic antiseptics of cheilitis in patients of the main group was conducted. Positive dynamics was obtained after the 4th visit. It has been established that their use leads to a reduction in pain, a decrease in lesion elements (flakes), epithelization of cracks, a reduction in pain, a decrease in complaints of dryness of the red rims of the lips. The complete disappearance of scales and epithelization of cracks was achieved on the 8th visit to the local application of oil-balsamic antiseptic. On the 8th visit, the patients of the main group noted the lack of dryness of the red border of the lips, the disappearance of scales, complete epithelization of cracks. In control patients, a positive result was obtained after 10 visits, the rehabilitation period is mild and in a shorter period, the period of remission within 12 months. Oil-balsam antiseptics have a pronounced effect on gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, fungi, facultative aerobes and anaerobes. The data we obtained allow us to introduce this treatment regimen into the clinic of therapeutic dentistry for the treatment of meteorological cheilitis.
Replantation of tooth as alternative to deletion (clinical case)
Authors: Rotin N. E.
Published: December 2019

Urgency. Replantation of the tooth the expeditious return of an extracted tooth in his hole. Despite the fact that the operation of tooth replantation has been known since the 19th century, to this day in dental practice, this technique is rarely used, although in some cases this type of organ-preserving operations is the only alternative to tooth extraction.

Purpose. To analyze the effectiveness of the operation of tooth replantation carried out by the classical method.

Materials and methods. Replantation of tooth 1.2 was carried out according to the classical method. Evaluation of optical density of bone tissue surrounding the root apex of the replanting tooth 1.2 was carried out with the use of computed tomography in X-ray output 0,04 mSv according to Hounsfield. The efficiency of the graft mobility was determined using the apparatus Periotest M Siemens (Medizintechnik Gulden). The values of the device from –8.0 to +9.9 correspond to the lack of mobility of the tooth (osteoid type of tooth fixation), from +10.0 to +19.9 — the first degree of mobility, from +20.0 to 29.9 — the second degree, from +30.0 and more — the third degree.

Conclusion. 1 year 7 months after the replantation of tooth 1.2 we observed a complete restoration of its functions and the absence of pathological mobility.
Care and management of bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of jaw in patient with pathological fracture of mandible: case study
Authors: Kirpichnikov M. V. , Podolsky V. V. , Yarygina E. N. , Serbin A. S. , Aleshanov K. A.
Published: December 2019

This is a case study of patient with bisphosphonate associated osteonecrosis of the mandible after an extraction of teeth 4.6 and 4.7 complicated with pathological fracture while receiving intravenous bisphosphonates is discussed. The patients presenting signs and symptoms are reviewed. Bisphosphonates induced osteonecrosis definition and are reviewed management.
Prevention of teeth hyperesis using domestic oral cavity care products
Authors: Iordanishvili A. K.
Published: December 2019

The evaluation of the effectiveness of the prevention of hyperesthesia of teeth in middle-aged people using the complex of domestic oral care products manufactured by JSC WERTEKS (St. Petersburg, Russia) has been carried out. It was shown that the best clinical result was achieved when using special toothpaste ASEPTA Plus Remineralization, mouthwash ASEPTA Parodontal Fresh and vitamin-mineral complex ASEPTA Parodontal containing coral calcium, coenzyme Q10, green tea extract and vitamins D3, C, A, B3, B6, B9 during individual oral hygiene.
Dynamics of blood lipid-phospholipid profile indicators in elderiy patients with stroke
Authors: Slyusar T. A. , Abramenko Yu. V. , Yakovlev N. A. , Choroshavina K. V.
Published: December 2019

Objective. To study dynamics of blood lipid-phospholipid profile indicators in elderly patients with stroke for criteria optimization of differential diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.

Material and methods. Sixty patients, aged from 60 to 74 years with new-onset hemispheric stroke were examined. 34 patients of them were diagnosed with ischemic stroke (IS); 26 patients had intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Patient’s status was assessed using the NIHSS, the Rivermead mobility index, the modified Renkin scale, the Barthel ADL index. We measured blood levels of phosphotidylinosits in patients with acute IS and ICH. The percentage absorption of lipid-phospholipid complexes was also studied in the infrared spectrum of blood serum. The control group consisted of 20 healthy individuals.

Results. Dynamics of lipid-phospholipid complexes in blood serum is associated with the type of stroke. The blood levels of phosphotidylinosits in patients with acute IS and ICH were strongly correlated with degree of neurological deficit, levels of daily activity and functional independence (p < 0,05–0,01).

Conclusion. The received data may be important for individualization of diagnostics and therapeutic interventions in elderly patients with acute IS and ICH.
Placental and serum production of cytokines and relaxin in pregnant women with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Krukier I. I. , Avrutskaya V. V. , Grigoriants A. A. , Degtyaryova A. S. , Nikashina A. A. , Rozhkov A. V.
Published: December 2019

Objective of research was to study the production of serum and placental cytokines and relaxin in women with a physiological pregnancy (45) and complicated by type I diabetes mellitus (42). The research material was the placenta and serum of pregnant women, in which determined the level of cytokines TNF-α, TGF-β, IL-1β and relaxin. It has been shown that the cytokine-producing function of the placenta plays an important role in the development of that organ, and systemic production of cytokines and relaxin is of key importance in the development of endothelial dysfunction syndrome. Early diagnosis of complications in pregnant women with type 1 diabetes will make it possible to start etiopathogenetic therapy in a timely manner and makes it possible to perform adequate obstetric tactics of labor.
Features of pregnancy course and perinatal outcomes of premature labor in HIV-positive women
Authors: Kravchenko E. N. , Kuklina L. V. , Yakovleva O. A.
Published: December 2019

A retrospective study of 76 pregnant HIV-positive women (main group) and 198 pregnant women without HIV infection (comparison group) with preterm birth and their newborns was conducted. In the main group, anemia, fetal growth retardation, meconium release into the amniotic fluid were most often recorded. Grade 1–2 cerebral ischemia was detected in 86.8 % of infants, respiratory failure in 7.9 %, while respiratory distress syndrome was prevented in 46 % of cases.
Primary mucinous adenocarcinoma of renal pelvis (case description)
Authors: Gutorov S. L. , Pavlov A. V. , Borisova E. I. , Vishnevskaya Ya. V. , Sobelya O. S.
Published: December 2019

This is a description of a case of extremely rare pathology, a primary mucinous adenocarcinoma of renal pelvis. The survey data, including CT-scan, as well as the results of histological, immunohistochemical and molecular genetic studies are presented. The disease progressed after surgical treatment; chemotherapy regimens and their effectiveness are given.
Thermography screening of thyroid gland: how to distinguish health from pathology
Authors: Dolgov I. M. , Volovik M. G. , Nikitina O. V. , Shkurat T. P.
Published: December 2019

This research is organized to investigate if the thermal gradient (Tgrad) (difference between temperature maximum and minimum in the region of interest over thyroid gland on neck thermogramm) could be a marker of normal/ abnormal thyroid function and, if so, find out the cut-off value and check it screening validity.

Materials and methods.Thermography examination was performed using a TVS-300 med (S-Petersburg, Russia) thermal imaging camera with a resolution of 384 × 288 pixels and sensitivity was <0.04 °C according to European Association of Thermology standards. Anterior neck thermografic images were performed and collected in cloud database, where, by mean of program tools, region of interest were marked and Tgradcalculated. Totally 1025 pts with different thyroid pathology (group 1: female 944, age 15–90 (55,4±15,8), male 81, age 14–86 (53,6±18,8)), and 395 healthy persons (group 2: male 324 age 17–26 (21,8±4,4), female 71 age 16–70т (34,6±12,7)) were investigated. To check the quality of the model another 314 persons (18 male and 296 female) were studied in screening mode.

Results.Calculated Tgradvalue was 1,65±0,53 °C, Ме 1,53(1,24; 1,90) and 0,98±0,23 °C, Me 1,01(0,82; 1,15) for group 1 and 2 accordingly. By mean of binary logistic regression analysis we found good correlation between Tgradvalue and presence/absence of thyroid pathology: significance level р<0,0001, χ² = 838,84, df = 1, β 0 = 9,984, β 1 = –9,033. Area under curve in ROC analysis was 0,922 (95 % CI 0,908; 0,935), р<0,001; optimal cut off value for Tgradwas 1,21 °C for maximal sensitivity (79,8 %) and specificity (83,3 %). In screening evaluation, according to optimal cut-off value 1,2 °C for Tgrad, 82,2 % of cases were classified correctly: true-positive and true-negative results were achieved in 258 from 314 pts.

Conclusion.Thermography test, based on Tgradvalue calculation, could help to distinguish persons with normal and abnormal function of thyroid gland.
Mesane Çıkım Obstruksiyonu Saptanan Obez Hastalarda Alfa Bloker Tedavisinin Etkinliği
Authors: KARABIÇAK Mustafa , TÜRK Hakan , ÜN Sıtkı , ARSLAN Erkan , OĞÜTLÜ Ahmet
Published: December 2019

Amaç: Mesane çıkım obstruksiyonu sebebiyle alfa bloker tedavisi kullanan   hastaların vücut kitle indeksine göre tedavi etkinliğini karşılaştırmaktır. Materyal metod: Mayıs 2015 ile Ocak 2018 arası  alt üriner sistem semptomarı ile polikliniğimize başvuran ve mesane çıkım obstruksiyonu olduğu düşünülen hastalar değerlendirildi. Dışlanma kriterleri sonrası hastalar obez ve obez olmayan olarak iki gruba ayrıldı. Alfa bloker tedavisinin etkinliği her iki grupta değerlendirildi. Bulgular: Çalışmaya 91 obez hasta (grup I) ve 280 obez olmayan (grup II) olmak üzere 371 hasta dahil edildi. Hastaların 4. ve 12. hafta sonunda  Q MAX ve PVR  değerlerini inceledik. Her iki grubunda tedaviden eşit oranda yararlandığını gördük. Hastaların IPSS değerlerini incelediğimizde ise 4. hafta sonunda grup I’de IPSS değerinde değişim gözlenmedi. Grup II’de ise IPSS değerleri düşüş gösterdi. 12. hafta sonunda her iki gruptaki hastaların IPSS değerlerinin eşit oranda düştüğü görüldü.  Sonuç:  Çalışmamızda alfa bloker tedavisinin hem obez hemde obez olmayan hasta grubunda etkin ve güvenle kullanılabileceği görüldü.
Tıp Dili ve Türkçe Üzerine Öğretim Üyesi Görüşleri
Authors: SEVİNÇ Hüseyin Fatih
Published: December 2019

Amaç: Erciyes
Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi öğretim üyelerinin Türkçe ve Tıp dilinin güncel
sorunlarına bakış açısını belirlemeyi amaçladık.   Gereç ve Yöntemler: Erciyes
Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesindeki 252 öğretim üyesinin 131’i (%51,9) katılmıştır.
Anket, öğretim üyelerinin Türkçenin sorunlarıyla, bilim ve Tıp diliyle ilgili
bakış açılarını araştırmak için hazırlanmış çoktan seçmeli toplam 31 sorudan
oluşmaktadır.Bulgular: Katılımcıların 126’sı (%96,2)
dilimizde kirlenme olduğunu düşünmektedir. Araştırmaya katılan  öğretim üyelerinin 101’i (%77,1) Türkiye’de
tıp alanında kullanılan dille ilgili sorun olduğunu düşünmektedir.

Sonuç: Dilimize ne kadar
güvenirsek, dilimizi ne kadar çok işlersek ve öğretirsek dilimiz o kadar çok
gelişir. Bize düşen görev, bize bırakılan binlerce yıllık bu mirası en iyi
şekilde koruyarak ve geliştirerek gelecek nesillere aktarmaktır.
The healthcare experience of prostate cancer patients: exploring the intersection of age and gender
Authors: Braverman Louis
Published: December 2019

Although researchers have conducted extensive studies of the psychoso­cial impacts of prostate cancer and its treatment on men’s bodies, mascu­linity and sexuality, little attention has been devoted to the intersection of gender and age in the healthcare experience of this illness. Based on data collected through direct observation in four French public hospitals, and 65 semi-directive interviews with prostate cancer patients, their relatives and healthcare professionals, this article aims to examine how age and gender shape care pathways. We argue that combining the concept of hegemonic masculinity with an intersectional approach may provide an adequate theoretical framework for analysing the plurality of men’s pros­tate cancer healthcare experience. Four steps of the patient care process are successively analysed to assess how the patient experience of illness may be influenced by power relations that interact with individual charac­teristics: screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care.
Impact of Nutritional Management on Available Mineral Nitrogen and Soil Quality Properties in Coffee Agroecosystems
Authors: Casanova Olaya Juan Fernando , Rodríguez Salcedo Judith , Ordoñez María-Cristina
Published: December 2019

Coffee crop management is guided by an approach of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers application in order to guarantee high production rates; however, this type of management increases soil degradation. A study was conducted in order to evaluate the impact of changing soil nutritional management from Chemical (NPK) to Organic (Farmyard Manure-FYM), and from Chemical (NPK) to Mixed (NPK + FYM) regarding soil quality properties and mineral nitrogen available in coffee agroecosystems; a multi-spatial analysis was carried out considering a unifactorial design; soil samples were taken from depths between 0.10 and 0.20 m in 42 plots; physical and chemical variables were measured (ammonium, nitrates, pH, organic matter, moisture, bulk density and texture). It was found that Chemical Management affects the physical and chemical properties of soil quality (organic matter, humidity, bulk density, and pH), resulting in significant differences (p < 0.05) comparing to Mixed and Organic Management. The lowest level of organic matter was found under chemical management, being of 3% and increasing up to 4.41% under mixed management. Mineral nitrogen availability in the form of ammonium, was not affected by nutritional management. A higher concentration of nitrate was found under Mixed Management (105.02 mg NO3 kg−1), presenting significant differences (p < 0.05) against Chemical and Organic. There was no significant difference between Organic and Chemical Management. The study allowed us to determine that, through coffee organic nutritional management, it is possible to keep suitable soil quality conditions in order to reduce soil degradation, and to keep mineral nitrogen available for the development of coffee plants.
Diversified Arable Cropping Systems and Management Schemes in Selected European Regions Have Positive Effects on Soil Organic Carbon Content
Authors: Francaviglia Rosa , Álvaro-Fuentes Jorge , Di Bene Claudia , Gai Lingtong , Regina Kristiina , Turtola Eila
Published: December 2019

In the last few decades, various crop diversification strategies and management practices have been promoted to improve or at least maintain environmental quality and agroecosystem services. We conducted a data-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of alternatives for crop diversification and environmentally friendly farming management for arable crops in four selected European pedoclimatic regions and typical cropping systems in the Atlantic, Boreal, Mediterranean North, and Mediterranean South regions. The dataset was retrieved from 38 references and included data on site-specific environmental conditions, soil tillage, crop rotation, fertilization, and final soil organic carbon content (SOC). No tillage (NT) was more effective (7%) in increasing SOC content than minimum tillage (MT) across the studied depths (from 5 to 40 cm). Conservation tillage as whole, including NT, MT, and rotational tillage (RT) positively affected SOC content in the top 10 cm (28%) in comparison with conventional tillage (CT). Compared to monoculture, longer crop rotations (3–5 years) and the introduction of legumes resulted in higher increases in SOC contents (18%), that were higher in semiarid conditions (11%) than under humid and sub-humid climates (3.2%). The effect of fertilization on SOC contents was higher in the Mediterranean North region (28%), and organic fertilization showed the highest increases (25%) compared to the control with mineral fertilization. Higher increases in SOC contents with tillage and fertilization management were found in sites with lower SOC contents in the control treatment (conventional tillage and mineral fertilization respectively). The data analysis indicated that various European arable agroecosystems benefit both from diversified cropping systems and the adoption of environmentally friendly farming management and are thereby capable to increase SOC contents.
Chemical Properties and Enzyme Activity of Soil as Affected by Tillage System and Previous Crop
Authors: Woźniak Andrzej
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of tillage system and previously cultivated crop on the chemical properties and enzyme activity of soil. The first-order experimental factor was the tillage system, i.e., (1) conventional tillage (CT) and (2) reduced tillage (RT), whereas the second-order experimental factor was the previously cultivated crop, i.e., a) pea and b) durum wheat. Samples of soil were analyzed for the contents of organic C, total N, available forms of P, K, and Mg, as well as soil pH, total sorption capacity, and activity of soil enzymes (dehydrogenases, phosphatases, ureases, and proteases). The study demonstrated that the contents of organic C, total N, and available forms of K and Mg as well as soil pH were higher in soil subjected to RT than in that subjected to CT. In plots after pea cultivation, higher values were determined for the contents of total N and Mg, whereas in plots after durum wheat cultivation, the contents of organic C, P, and K and the soil pH were higher. Higher activities of dehydrogenases and phosphatases in soil were noted in soils subjected to the CT system than in those subjected to the RT system, whereas the activities of ureases and proteases were higher in soils subjected to RT. In addition, higher activities of dehydrogenases, phosphatases, and proteases were determined in the soil after pea cultivation than after durum wheat cultivation, whereas a higher activity of ureases was found in the soil after durum wheat cultivation. The C/N ratio was more beneficial after CT than after RT, as well as in the soil from plots after pea cultivation than after durum wheat cultivation.
Hydrangea DNA Methylation Caused by pH Substrate Changes to Modify Sepal Colour is Detected by MSAP and ISSR Markers
Authors: Anaya-Covarrubias Julio Y. , Larranaga Nerea , Almaráz-Abarca Norma , Escoto-Delgadillo Martha , Rodríguez-Macías Ramón , Torres-Morán Martha I.
Published: December 2019

The hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla (Thunb). Ser.) is an ornamental species with great market potential. It is known for its ability to change the colour of its inflorescence, according to the pH of the culture substrate. The molecular mechanisms that underlie these changes are still unclear. It is known that epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, play an important role in genetic expression, so they could be responsible for this phenomenon in hydrangea. In the present study, the molecular markers ISSR (Inter Simple Sequence Repeat) and MSAP (Methyl-Sensitive Amplification Polymorphism) were used to detect molecular changes in the genome of hydrangea plants that were cultivated under different pH levels to modify the colour of the sepals. The results showed a correspondence between the methylation signal measured with MSAP and amplification ISSR patterns when compared before and after the modification of pH culture substrates. These results suggest that DNA methylation might be involved as a molecular mechanism underlying the colour change of hydrangea sepals in response to a differential pH in the substrate. In addition, the results pave the way to study the relationship between DNA methylation and ISSR marker profiles.
The CYP74 Gene Family in Watermelon: Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling Under Hormonal Stress and Root-Knot Nematode Infection
Authors: Zhou Yong , Guang Yelan , Li Jingwen , Wang Fei , Ahammed Golam Jalal , Yang Youxin
Published: December 2019

Allene oxide synthase (AOS) and hydroperoxide lyase (HPL), members of the CYP74 gene family, are branches of the oxylipin pathway and play vital roles in plant responses to a number of stresses. In this study, four HPL genes and one AOS gene were identified in the watermelon genome, which were clustered into three subfamilies (CYP74A, CYP74B and CYP74C). Sequence analysis revealed that most HPL and AOS proteins from various plants contain representative domains, including Helix-I region, Helix-K region (ExxR) and Heme-binding domain. A number of development-, stress-, and hormone-related cis-elements were found in the promoter regions of the ClAOS and ClHPL genes, and the detected ClAOS and ClHPL genes were differentially expressed in different tissues and fruit development stages, as well as in response to various hormones. In addition, red light could enhance the expression of ClAOS in root-knot nematode-infected leaves and roots of watermelon, implying that ClAOS might play a primary role in red light-induced resistance against root-knot nematodes. These findings lay a foundation for understanding the specific function of CYP74 genes in watermelon.
DNA-Based Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Grassland Plant Species: Challenges, Approaches, and Applications
Authors: Loera-Sánchez Miguel , Studer Bruno , Kölliker Roland
Published: December 2019

Grasslands are wide-spread, multi-species ecosystems that provide many valuable services. Plant genetic diversity (i.e., the diversity within species) is closely linked to ecosystem functioning in grasslands and constitutes an important reservoir of genetic resources that can be used to breed improved cultivars of forage grass and legume species. Assessing genetic diversity in grassland plant species is demanding due to the large number of different species and the level of resolution needed. However, recent methodological advances could help in tackling this challenge at a larger scale. In this review, we outline the methods that can be used to measure genetic diversity in plants, highlighting their strengths and limitations for genetic diversity assessments of grassland plant species, with a special focus on forage plants. Such methods can be categorized into DNA fragment, hybridization array, and high-throughput sequencing (HTS) methods, and they differ in terms of resolution, throughput, and multiplexing potential. Special attention is given to HTS approaches (i.e., plastid genome skimming, whole genome re-sequencing, reduced representation libraries, sequence capture, and amplicon sequencing), because they enable unprecedented large-scale assessments of genetic diversity in non-model organisms with complex genomes, such as forage grasses and legumes. As no single method may be suited for all kinds of purposes, we also provide practical perspectives for genetic diversity analyses in forage breeding and genetic resource conservation efforts.
Experimental Evaluation of a New Giant Reed (Arundo Donax L.) Composite Using Citric Acid as a Natural Binder
Authors: Ferrandez-Garcia Maria Teresa , Ferrandez-Garcia Clara Eugenia , Garcia-Ortuño Teresa , Ferrandez-Garcia Antonio , Ferrandez-Villena Manuel
Published: December 2019

The raw materials used to manufacture thermal insulation in buildings consume a large amount of energy and are not generally biodegradable, which means it is necessary to increase the use of renewable, eco-friendly resources such as plant fibers in order to reduce the environmental problems this generates. The wood adhesives developed by the petrochemical industry offer excellent performance and are affordable. However, their use has an expiry date and in the future they will be rejected due to the environmental and health problems they can cause. The objective of this work was to develop a new eco-friendly biocomposite that could be used for thermal insulation in buildings. Boards were manufactured from giant reed particles with a particle size of 2 to 4 mm, using 5 and 10% by weight of citric acid as a natural binder. Experiments were then carried out to investigate the effect of board density on mechanical, physical, and thermal properties. A new type of composite was obtained with a thermal conductivity of 0.081–0.093 W/m K, which makes it suitable as an insulating material. The boards with a density of 850 kg/m3 had a modulus of rupture (MOR) of 12.5 N/mm2, a modulus of elasticity (MOE) of 2440 N/mm2, and an internal bonding strength (IB) of 0.61 N/mm2, and they could be used as insulation panels for divisions and enclosures in buildings.
Improving the Recognition of Equine Affective States
Authors: Bell Catherine , Rogers Suzanne , Taylor Julie , Busby Debbie
Published: December 2019

A key welfare problem for horses is that people commonly fail to recognise, and consequently neglect to resolve, equine behavioural signs of distress, worsening the welfare of the horse and potentially putting the safety of the handler at risk as a result. Members of equestrian Facebook groups were asked to view six videos and assess the horse’s behaviour in each; the authors selected the videos and considered each video to demonstrate behaviour associated with negative affective states. An additional six equine behaviourists also completed the survey as an “expert comparison group” from whom we could define “correct” answers; their responses were consistent with each other and the views of the authors. Although the majority of respondents successfully recognised behaviour indicative of distress in some instances, behaviour associated with negative affective states was commonly missed; videos featuring natural horsemanship and bridle-less riding were particularly interpreted incorrectly to be positive experiences for the horses. Binary logistic regression analysis (72.1% success rate) confirmed that the different video types (ridden dressage, natural horsemanship, in-hand dressage, bridle-less riding, Western reining and behavioural rehabilitation) were strong predictors for obtaining a correct answer (p < 0.01) but that experience of equine-ownership was not. Of the equestrian activities preferred by participants, only proponents of clicker training showed an increased likelihood of obtaining the correct answer (p = 0.05). Even when behavioural signs suggestive of negative affective states were recognised, a minority of respondents stated that they would be happy for their horse to be treated similarly. In conclusion, behavioural signs of equine distress are poorly recognised; they therefore warrant an increased prominence in education and the outreach activity of welfare organisations, in order to reduce equine suffering.
Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emission of Beef Heifers in Relation with Growth and Feed Efficiency
Authors: Renand Gilles , Vinet Aurélie , Decruyenaere Virginie , Maupetit David , Dozias Dominique
Published: December 2019

Reducing enteric methane production and improving the feed efficiency of heifers on roughage diets are important selection objectives for sustainable beef production. The objective of the current study was to assess the relationship between different methane production and feed efficiency criteria of beef heifers fed ad libitum roughage diets. A total of 326 Charolais heifers aged 22 months were controlled in two farms and fed either a grass silage (n = 252) or a natural meadow hay (n = 74) diet. Methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) emission rates (g/day) were measured with GreenFeed systems. The dry matter intake (DMI), average daily gain (ADG), CH4 and CO2 were measured over 8 to 12 weeks. Positive correlations were observed among body weight, DMI, ADG, CH4 and CO2. The residual feed intake (rwgDMI) was not related to CH4 or residual methane (rwiCH4). It was negatively correlated with methane yield (CH4/DMI): Rp = −0.87 and −0.83. Residual gain (rwiADG) and ADG/DMI were weakly and positively related to residual methane (rwiCH4): Rp = 0.21 on average. The ratio ADG/CO2 appeared to be a useful proxy of ADG/DMI (Rp = 0.64 and 0.97) and CH4/CO2 a proxy of methane yield (Rp = 0.24 and 0.33) for selecting low-emitting and efficient heifers.
The Use of Nanomedicine for Targeted Therapy against Bacterial Infections
Authors: Masri Abdulkader , Anwar Ayaz , Khan Naveed Ahmed , Siddiqui Ruqaiyyah
Published: December 2019

The emergence of drug resistance combined with limited success in the discovery of newer and effective antimicrobial chemotherapeutics poses a significant challenge to human and animal health. Nanoparticles may be an approach for effective drug development and delivery against infections caused by multi-drug resistant bacteria. Here we discuss nanoparticles therapeutics and nano-drug delivery against bacterial infections. The therapeutic efficacy of numerous kinds of nanoparticles including nanoantibiotics conjugates, small molecules capped nanoparticles, polymers stabilized nanoparticles, and biomolecules functionalized nanoparticles has been discussed. Moreover, nanoparticles-based drug delivery systems against bacterial infections have been described. Furthermore, the fundamental limitation of biocompatibility and biosafety of nanoparticles is also conferred. Finally, we propose potential future strategies of nanomaterials as antibacterials.
Chemical Profiling and Biological Properties of Extracts from Different Parts of Colchicum Szovitsii Subsp. Szovitsii
Authors: Rocchetti Gabriele , Senizza Biancamaria , Zengin Gokhan , Okur Murat Ali , Montesano Domenico , Yildiztugay Evren , Lobine Devina , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi , Lucini Luigi
Published: December 2019

Like other members of the Colchicum genus, C. szovitsii subsp. szovitsii is also of medicinal importance in Turkish traditional medicine. However, its biological properties have not been fully investigated. Herein, we focused on the evaluation of the in vitro antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory effects of flower, root and leaf extracts, obtained using different extraction methods. In addition, a comprehensive (poly)-phenolic and alkaloid profiling of the different extracts was undertaken. In this regard, ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTOF-MS) allowed us to putatively annotate 195 polyphenols and 87 alkaloids. The most abundant polyphenols were flavonoids (83 compounds), whilst colchicine and 2-demethylcolchicine were some of the most widespread alkaloids in each extract analyzed. However, our findings showed that C. szovitsii leaf extracts were a superior source of both total polyphenols and total alkaloids (being, on average 24.00 and 2.50 mg/g, respectively). Overall, methanolic leaf extracts showed the highest (p < 0.05) ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) reducing power (on average 109.52 mgTE/g) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging (on average 90.98 mgTE/g). Interestingly, each C. szovitsii methanolic extract was more active than the water extracts when considering enzymatic inhibition such as against tyrosinase, glucosidase, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Strong correlations (p < 0.01) were also observed between polyphenols/alkaloids and the biological activities determined. Multivariate statistics based on supervised orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) allowed for the detection of those compounds most affected by the different extraction methods. Therefore, this is the first detailed evidence showing that C. szovitsii subsp. szovitsii might provide beneficial effects against oxidative stress and the associated chronic diseases. Nevertheless, the detailed mechanisms of action need to be further investigated.
Impact of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Chronic Discontinuous Treatment in Cardiometabolic Disorders and Oxidative Stress Induced by Fructose Intake in Rats
Authors: Ghibu Steliana , Craciun Cristina Elena , Rusu Razvan , Morgovan Claudiu , Mogosan Cristina , Rochette Luc , Gal Adrian Florin , Dronca Maria
Published: December 2019

Insulin resistance (IR) and cardiometabolic disorders are the main consequences of today’s alimentary behavior. This study evaluates the effects of a chronic-discontinuous treatment with alpha-lipoic acid (AL), an antioxidant substance that improves glycemic control associated with diabetes mellitus, on metabolic disorders and plasma oxidative stress induced by fructose intake, in rats. Sprague-Dawley rats (48 animals) were randomized into two series (n = 24): rats fed with standard chow or with standard chow supplemented with 60% fructose. In each of the two series, for 2 weeks/month over 12 weeks, a group of rats (n = 12) was intraperitoneally injected with NaCl 0.9%, and a second group (n = 12) received AL 50 mg/kg/day. Body weight, glycemia, and systolic blood pressure were monitored throughout the study. After 12 weeks, IR, plasma lipoproteins, uric acid, transaminase activities, and oxidative stress markers were assessed. The high fructose-enriched diet induced cardiometabolic disorders (hypertension, hyperglycemia, IR and dyslipidemia), an increase in uric acid concentration, transaminase activities and C-reactive protein level. This diet also enhanced plasma products of lipid and protein oxidation, homocysteine level, and decreased GSH/GSSG ratio. In this field, there is evidence to indicate that oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiology of diabetic complications. AL discontinuous treatment prevents the metabolic disorders induced by fructose intake, reduced plasma lipid and protein oxidation-products, and restored the GHS/GSSG ratio. Our study proves a promising potential of the chronic-discontinuous treatment of AL and highlights the pleiotropic effects of this antioxidant substance in metabolic disorders such as diabetes.
The Influence of Light on Reactive Oxygen Species and NF-кB in Disease Progression
Authors: Kumar Rajendran Naresh , George Blassan P. , Chandran Rahul , Tynga Ivan Mfouo , Houreld Nicolette , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: December 2019

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important secondary metabolites that play major roles in signaling pathways, with their levels often used as analytical tools to investigate various cellular scenarios. They potentially damage genetic material and facilitate tumorigenesis by inhibiting certain tumor suppressors. In diabetic conditions, substantial levels of ROS stimulate oxidative stress through specialized precursors and enzymatic activity, while minimum levels are required for proper wound healing. Photobiomodulation (PBM) uses light to stimulate cellular mechanisms and facilitate the removal of oxidative stress. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) generates ROS to induce selective tumor destruction. The regulatory roles of PBM via crosstalk between ROS and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-кB) are substantial for the appropriate management of various conditions.
Assessment of Subcellular ROS and NO Metabolism in Higher Plants: Multifunctional Signaling Molecules
Authors: Kohli Sukhmeen Kaur , Khanna Kanika , Bhardwaj Renu , Abd_Allah Elsayed Fathi , Ahmad Parvaiz , Corpas Francisco J.
Published: December 2019

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) are produced in all aerobic life forms under both physiological and adverse conditions. Unregulated ROS/NO generation causes nitro-oxidative damage, which has a detrimental impact on the function of essential macromolecules. ROS/NO production is also involved in signaling processes as secondary messengers in plant cells under physiological conditions. ROS/NO generation takes place in different subcellular compartments including chloroplasts, mitochondria, peroxisomes, vacuoles, and a diverse range of plant membranes. This compartmentalization has been identified as an additional cellular strategy for regulating these molecules. This assessment of subcellular ROS/NO metabolisms includes the following processes: ROS/NO generation in different plant cell sites; ROS interactions with other signaling molecules, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), phosphatase, calcium (Ca2+), and activator proteins; redox-sensitive genes regulated by the iron-responsive element/iron regulatory protein (IRE-IRP) system and iron regulatory transporter 1(IRT1); and ROS/NO crosstalk during signal transduction. All these processes highlight the complex relationship between ROS and NO metabolism which needs to be evaluated from a broad perspective.
Effects of Coriandrum sativum L. in Association with Physical Exercise in Alloxan-Induced Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Rats
Authors: Cardoso André L. B. D. , Frederico Éric H. F. F. , Guimarães Carlos A. S. , Moura-Fernandes Marcia C. , Guedes-Aguiar Eliane O. , Silva Adriana L P da , Reis-Silva Aline , Francisca-Santos Arlete , de Souza Luiz F. F. , Mendonça-Guimarães Rubens , Eduardo-Santos Tiago , Eduardo-Santos Diego , Paineiras-Domingos Laisa L. , de Sá-Caputo Danúbia da C. , Asad Nasser R. , Taiar Redha , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: December 2019

The treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a health challenge and new approaches to solve this issue have been proposed. This study evaluated the biological effects of a concomitant treatment with Coriandrum sativum (coriander) and whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on rats with T1DM. It is hypothesized that this concomitant treatment will improve the metabolic state of rats with T1DM. T1DM was induced with alloxan. Male rats (n = 20) were divided into four groups: control (CON), treated with coriander (COR), exposed to 50 Hz of WBV (WBV), and treated with coriander and exposed to 50 Hz of WBV (COR + WBV), weekly for 28 days. No alterations were observed in the metabolic outcome variables relating to the organs, specific biomarkers, body mass, food intake, and stool consistency. Alloxan-induced T1DM resisted desirable therapeutic effects of the proposed concomitant treatment as it inhibited antidiabetic activity of the coriander. Putting together all findings, neither coriander nor WBV exercise were capable of improving the metabolic state of the Wistar rats with T1DM. This data set and the knowledge in the literature about the effects of the concomitant treatment in healthy animals can provide greater reliability concerning the effects of coriander.
Photophysicochemical Properties and In Vitro Phototherapeutic Effects of Iodoquinoline- and Benzothiazole-Derived Unsymmetrical Squaraine Cyanine Dyes
Authors: Friães Sofia , Lima Eurico , Boto Renato E. , Ferreira Diana , Fernandes José R. , Ferreira Luis F. V. , Silva Amélia M. , Reis Lucinda V.
Published: December 2019

The search to replace conventional cancer treatment therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery has led over the last ten years, to a substantial effort in the development of several classes of photodynamic therapy photosensitizers with desired photophysicochemical and photobiological properties. Herein we report the synthesis of 6-iodoquinoline- and benzothiazole-based unsymmetrical squaraine cyanine dyes functionalized with amine groups located in the four-membered central ring. Their photodegradation and singlet oxygen production ability, as well as their in vitro photocytotoxicity against Caco-2 and HepG2 cell lines using a 630.8 ± 0.8 nm centered light-emitting diode system, were also investigated. All photosensitizer candidates displayed strong absorption within the tissue transparency spectral region (650–850 nm). The synthesized dyes were found to have moderate light stability. The potential of these compounds is evidenced by their cytotoxic activity against both tumor cell lines, highlighting the zwitterionic unsubstituted dye, which showed more intense photodynamic activity. Although the singlet oxygen quantum yields of these iodinated derivatives are considered low, it could be concluded that their introduction into the quinoline heterocycle was highly advantageous as it played a role in increasing selective cytotoxicity in the presence of light. Thus, the novel synthesized dyes present photophysicochemical and in vitro photobiological properties that make them excellent photosensitizer candidates for photodynamic therapy.
Rock-Breaking Properties Under the Rotatory Impact of Water Jets in Water Jet Drilling
Authors: Ge Zhaolong , Wang Lei , Wang Man , Zhou Zhe , Xiao Songqiang , Zhao Hanyun
Published: December 2019

Water jet drilling is widely used to develop coalbed methane reservoirs. The water jet drill bit is the core component, and a self-rotating bit is an economical bit because of its high rock-breaking efficiency and low energy consumption. Because the important parameters concerning the rock-breaking efficiency of these drill bits are unclear, this study carried out rock-breaking experiments on water jet rotation under different conditions of drill bit rotation speed, jet pressure, and jet impact angle. How the rock was fractured and eroded under these different conditions was analyzed. The results show that the volume of rock broken under rotary jet erosion increases exponentially with increasing jet pressure. The rock-breaking depth is the most important factor that influences the volume of rock broken, whereas the diameter of the area broken is a secondary factor. There is an optimum water jet rotation speed for the most efficient rock breakage, and this rotation speed is positively correlated with jet pressure. There is also an optimum water jet impact angle for rock breaking, and, in our experiments, this angle was 10°. The rotary impact of the water jet causes the rock to be in a three-way tension state, and this reduces the water cushion effect and jet reflection. This study can be used as a reference and guide for optimizing the design of self-rotating water jet bits and the determination of reasonable drilling parameters.
Numerical Simulation of Polymer Solutions in a Single-Screw Extruder
Authors: Kadyirov Aidar , Gataullin Rustem , Karaeva Julia
Published: December 2019

Single-screw extruders are the most common equipment used for polymer extrusion. The study of the hydrodynamics of a polymer melts flow in the extruder channel is the basis for modeling and understanding the extrusion process. In general form, the extruder includes a straight section with a screw installed in it. In this study, the three-dimensional mathematical modeling of the polymer solutions flow in the metering zone of a single-screw extruder is performed. The influences of the screw geometry (L/D2 = 1…3) on the flow structure and the pressure drop are analyzed under a speed rotation up to 60 rpm. Aqueous solutions of 0.5% polyacrylamide (0.5% PAA) and 1.5% sodium salt of carboxymethyl cellulose (1.5% CMC) are considered as the working fluid.
Gear Fault Diagnosis Based on Kurtosis Criterion VMD and SOM Neural Network
Authors: Xiao Dongming , Ding Jiakai , Li Xuejun , Huang Liangpei
Published: December 2019

A gear fault diagnosis method based on kurtosis criterion variational mode decomposition (VMD) and self-organizing map (SOM) neural network is proposed. Firstly, the VMD algorithm is used to decompose the gear vibration signal, and the instantaneous frequency mean is calculated as the evaluation index, and the characteristic curve is drawn to screen out the most relevant intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) of the original vibration signal. Then, the number of VMD decompositions is determined, and the kurtosis value of IMFs are extracted to form the feature vectors. Then, the kurtosis value feature vectors of IMFs are normalized to form the kurtosis value normalized vectors. Finally, the normalized vectors of kurtosis value are input into SOM neural network to realize gear fault diagnosis. When the number of training times of SOM neural network is 100, the gear fault category is accurately classified by SOM neural network. The results show that when the training times of SOM neural network is 100 times, the gear fault diagnosis method, based on the kurtosis criterion VMD and SOM neural network is 100%, which indicates that the new method has a good effect on gear fault diagnosis.
Design, Application and Effectiveness of an Innovative Augmented Reality Teaching Proposal through 3P Model
Authors: López-García Alejandro , Miralles-Martínez Pedro , Maquilón Javier
Published: December 2019

Augmented reality (AR) has evolved hand in hand with advances in technology, and today is considered as an emerging technique in its own right. The aim of our study was to analyze students’ perceptions of how useful AR is in the school environment. A non-experimental quantitative design was used in the form of a questionnaire in which 106 primary sixth-grade students from six schools in the Region of Murcia (Spain) participated. During the study, a teaching proposal using AR related to the content of some curricular areas was put forward in the framework of the 3P learning model. The participants’ perceptions of this technique were analyzed according to each variable, both overall and by gender, via a questionnaire of our own making, which had previously been validated by AR experts, analyzing its psychometric qualities. The initial results indicate that this technique is, according to the students, useful for teaching the curriculum. The conclusion is that AR can increase students’ motivation and enthusiasm while enhancing teaching and learning at the same time.
Rotomolding of Thermoplastic Elastomers Based on Low-Density Polyethylene and Recycled Natural Rubber
Authors: Shaker Ramin , Rodrigue Denis
Published: December 2019

In this study, regenerated and nonregenerated off-the-road (OTR) ground tire rubber (GTR) was blended with low-density polyethylene (LDPE) to produce thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) by rotational molding. In particular, blending was performed by two different methods: melt blending (extrusion) and dry blending (high shear mixer). Then, different GTR concentrations (0, 20, 35, and 50 wt %) were used to determine the effect of rubber content on the processability and properties of the rotomolded compounds. From the samples produced, a complete morphological (optical and scanning electron microscopy), physical (density and hardness), and mechanical (tension, flexion, and impact) characterization was performed. The results showed that increasing the rubber content decreased the mechanical rigidity and strength but increased the elasticity and ductility. Finally, although melt blending led to slightly better properties than dry blending, the latter is more interesting to limit possible material degradation (mechanical, thermal, and oxidative), while reducing processing cost and time.