bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell Wall Proteomics Reveal Phenotypic Adaption of Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium smegmatis to Subinhibitory Rifampicin Exposure
Authors: Giddey Alexander D. , Ganief Tariq A. , Ganief Naadir , Koch Anastasia , Warner Digby F. , Soares Nelson C. , Blackburn Jonathan M.
Published: October 2021

Despite the availability of effective drug treatment, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of TB disease, kills ~1. 5 million people annually, and the rising prevalence of drug resistance increasingly threatens to worsen this plight. We previously showed that sublethal exposure to the frontline anti-TB drug, rifampicin, resulted in substantial adaptive remodeling of the proteome of the model organism, Mycobacterium smegmatis, in the drug-sensitive mc2155 strain [wild type (WT)]. In this study, we investigate whether these responses are conserved in an engineered, isogenic mutant harboring the clinically relevant S531L rifampicin resistance-conferring mutation (SL) and distinguish the responses that are specific to RNA polymerase β subunit- (RpoB-) binding activity of rifampicin from those that are dependent on the presence of rifampicin alone. We verified the drug resistance status of this strain and observed no phenotypic indications of rifampicin-induced stress upon treatment with the same concentration as used in WT (2.5 μg/ml). Thereafter, we used a cell wall-enrichment strategy to focus attention on the cell wall proteome and observed 253 proteins to be dysregulated in SL bacteria in comparison with 716 proteins in WT. We observed that decreased abundance of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and increased abundance of ribosomal machinery were conserved in the SL strain, whereas the upregulation of transcriptional machinery and the downregulation of numerous two-component systems were not. We conclude that the drug-resistant M. smegmatis strain displays some of the same proteomic responses observed in WT and suggest that this evidence supports the hypothesis that rifampicin exercises effects beyond RpoB-interaction alone and that mycobacteria recognise rifampicin as a signaling molecule in an RpoB-independent manner at sublethal doses. Taken together, our data indicates mixed RpoB-independent and RpoB-dependent proteomic remodeling in WT mycobacteria, with evidence for RpoB-independent ABC transporter downregulation, but drug activity-based transcriptional upregulation and two-component system downregulation.
Signaling Pathways in Proton and Non-proton ASIC1a Activation
Authors: Salinas Castellanos Libia Catalina , Uchitel Osvaldo Daniel , Weissmann Carina
Published: October 2021

Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) regulate synaptic activities and play important roles in neurodegenerative diseases as well as pain conditions. Classically, ASICs are described as transiently activated by a reduced pH, followed by desensitization; the activation allows sodium influx, and in the case of ASIC1a-composed channels, also calcium to some degree. Several factors are emerging and extensively analyzed as modulators, activating, inhibiting, and potentiating specific channel subunits. However, the signaling pathways triggered by channel activation are only starting to be revealed.The channel has been recently shown to be activated through a mechanism other than proton-mediated. Indeed, the large extracellular loop of these channels opens the possibility that other non-proton ligands might exist. One such molecule discovered was a toxin present in the Texas coral snake venom. The finding was associated with the activation of the channel at neutral pH via the toxin and causing intense and unremitting pain.By using different pharmacological tools, we analyzed the downstream signaling pathway triggered either by the proton and non-proton activation for human, mouse, and rat ASIC1a-composed channels in in vitro models. We show that for all species analyzed, the non-protonic mode of activation determines the activation of the ERK signaling cascade at a higher level and duration compared to the proton mode.This study adds to the growing evidence of the important role ASIC1a channels play in different physiological and pathological conditions and also hints at a possible pathological mechanism for a sustained effect.
Digital Semiology: A Prototype for Standardized, Computer-Based Semiologic Encoding of Seizures
Authors: Benoliel Tal , Gilboa Tal , Har-Shai Yahav Paz , Zelker Revital , Kreigsberg Bilha , Tsizin Evgeny , Arviv Oshrit , Ekstein Dana , Medvedovsky Mordekhay
Published: October 2021

Video-EEG monitoring (VEM) is imperative in seizure classification and presurgical assessment of epilepsy patients. Analysis of VEM is currently performed in most institutions using a freeform report, a time-consuming process resulting in a non-standardized report, limiting the use of this essential diagnostic tool. Herein we present a pilot feasibility study of our experience with “Digital Semiology” (DS), a novel seizure encoding software. It allows semiautomated annotation of the videos of suspected events from a predetermined, hierarchal set of options, with highly detailed semiologic descriptions, somatic localization, and timing. In addition, the software's semiologic extrapolation functions identify characteristics of focal seizures and PNES, sequences compatible with a Jacksonian march, and risk factors for SUDEP. Sixty episodes from a mixed adult and pediatric cohort from one level 4 epilepsy center VEM archives were analyzed using DS and the reports were compared with the standard freeform ones, written by the same epileptologists. The behavioral characteristics appearing in the DS and freeform reports overlapped by 78–80%. Encoding of one episode using DS required an average of 18 min 13 s (standard deviation: 14 min and 16 s). The focality function identified 19 out of 43 focal episodes, with a sensitivity of 45.45% (CI 30.39–61.15%) and specificity of 87.50% (CI 61.65–98.45%). The PNES function identified 6 of 12 PNES episodes, with a sensitivity of 50% (95% CI 21.09–78.91%) and specificity of 97.2 (95% CI 88.93–99.95%). Eleven events of GTCS triggered the SUDEP risk alert. Overall, these results show that video recordings of suspected seizures can be encoded using the DS software in a precise manner, offering the added benefit of semiologic alerts. The present study represents an important step toward the formation of an annotated video archive, to be used for machine learning purposes. This will further the goal of automated VEM analysis, ultimately contributing to wider utilization of VEM and therefore to the reduction of the treatment gap in epilepsy.
Temporal Evolution of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration With Alpha-Synuclein Propagation in Parkinson's Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Lai Thuy Thi , Kim Yun Joong , Nguyen Phuong Thi , Koh Young Ho , Nguyen Tinh Thi , Ma Hyeo-il , Kim Young Eun
Published: October 2021

According to a few studies, α-synuclein (αSyn) propagation has been suggested to play a key role in the pathomechanism of Parkinson's disease (PD), but neurodegeneration and the involvement of inflammation in its pathologic progression are not well understood with regard to temporal relationship. In this study, with the help of the PD mouse model injected with intrastriatal αSyn preformed fibril (PFF), the temporal evolution of αSyn propagation, inflammation, and neurodegeneration was explored in the perspective of the striatum and the whole brain. In the PFF-injected striatum, inflammatory response cells, including microglia and astrocytes, were activated at the earliest stage and reduced with time, and the phosphorylated form of αSyn accumulation increased behind it. Afterward, the degeneration of striatal dopaminergic neurons became significant with the conspicuity of behavioral phenotype. Similar patterns of forefront eruption of inflammation and then followed by αSyn propagation were noted in the opposite striatum, which were not injured by PFF injection. In analyzing the whole brain, inflammatory responses were activated at the earliest stage, and the soluble αSyn expression increased concurrently. The inflammatory response decreased afterward, and the accumulation of the insoluble form of αSyn increased behind it. Our results suggested that the inflammatory response may precede the accumulation of the pathologic form of αSyn; thereafter, the neurodegeneration and motor dysfunction followed αSyn proliferation in the PD mouse model. From this model, recognizing the temporal relationship between inflammation, αSyn propagation, and neurodegeneration may be helpful in establishing the PD animal model and monitoring the effect of interventional therapy.
NAFLD and Physical Exercise: Ready, Steady, Go!
Authors: Cigrovski Berkovic Maja , Bilic-Curcic Ines , Mrzljak Anna , Cigrovski Vjekoslav
Published: October 2021

Along with the increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes, the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) incidence is escalating, thus becoming a leading cause of liver cirrhosis and a significant burden of liver-related outcomes. Since there is no pharmacotherapy available to address the NAFLD, the most effective solutions seem to be lifestyle changes centered on physical activity. Exercise could mediate its beneficial effects directly on the liver and indirectly via extrahepatic pathways, forming a dose-response relationship with NAFLD in terms of prevalence and disease severity. Health-enhancing physical activity (HEPA) levels are mainly needed to exert beneficial effects in obese subjects, while even a small amount of exercise can be beneficial for lean individuals to prevent NAFLD. This mini-review addresses three major points regarding physical activity and NAFLD: prevention, treatment, and extrahepatic benefits, offering recommendations on type and intensity of exercise in liver disease.
Upregulation of Phosphodiesterase 2A Augments T Cell Activation by Changing cGMP/cAMP Cross-Talk
Authors: Kurelic Roberta , Krieg Paula F. , Sonner Jana K. , Bhaiyan Gloria , Ramos Gustavo C. , Frantz Stefan , Friese Manuel A. , Nikolaev Viacheslav O.
Published: October 2021

3′,5′-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is well-known for its diverse immunomodulatory properties, primarily inhibitory effects during T cell activation, proliferation, and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. A decrease in cAMP levels, due to the hydrolyzing activity of phosphodiesterases (PDE), is favoring inflammatory responses. This can be prevented by selective PDE inhibitors, which makes PDEs important therapeutic targets for autoimmune disorders. In this study, we investigated the specific roles of PDE2A and PDE3B in the regulation of intracellular cAMP levels in different mouse T cell subsets. Unexpectedly, T cell receptor (TCR) activation led to a selective upregulation of PDE2A at the protein level in conventional T cells (Tcon), whereas no changes were detected in regulatory T cells (Treg). In contrast, protein expression of PDE3B was significantly higher in both non-activated and activated Tcon subsets as compared to Treg, with no changes upon TCR engagement. Live-cell imaging of T cells expressing a highly sensitive Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based biosensor, Epac1-camps, has enabled cAMP measurements in real time and revealed stronger responses to the PDE2A inhibitors in activated vs non-activated Tcon. Importantly, stimulation of intracellular cGMP levels with natriuretic peptides led to an increase of cAMP in non-activated and a decrease of cAMP in activated Tcon, suggesting that TCR activation changes the PDE3B-dependent positive to PDE2A-dependent negative cGMP/cAMP cross-talk. Functionally, this switch induced higher expression of early activation markers CD25 and CD69. This constitutes a potentially interesting feed-forward mechanism during autoimmune and inflammatory responses that may be exploited therapeutically.
Deconstructing the Native Speaker: Further Evidence From Heritage Speakers for Why This Horse Should Be Dead!
Authors: Tsehaye Wintai , Pashkova Tatiana , Tracy Rosemarie , Allen Shanley E. M.
Published: October 2021

The category “native speaker” is flawed because it fails to consider the diversity between the speaker groups falling under its scope, as highlighted in previous literature. This paper provides further evidence by focusing on the similarities and differences between heritage speakers (HSs) and monolingually-raised speakers (MSs) of their heritage and majority languages. HSs are bilinguals who acquire a family (heritage) language and a societal (majority) language in early childhood. Naturalistic exposure from early childhood qualifies them as native speakers of their heritage language. Some HSs are simultaneous bilinguals, which makes them native speakers of their majority language as well. Others are early second language acquirers who may be indistinguishable from simultaneous bilinguals. Previous research shows that the heritage language productions of German HSs in the United States do not completely overlap with those of German MSs, who are, by default, native speakers. In overall clause type selection (independent main, coordinate main, and subordinate), the HSs differ from German MSs in German but are similar to English MSs in English. The present study examines the distribution of finite subordinate clauses and their types (relative, complement, and adverbial) across registers in 27 adolescent HSs of German in the United States, compared to 32 adolescent MSs of German and 32 MSs of English. All participants described a short video in two settings (formal/informal) and two modes (spoken/written). Results demonstrate that, even with respect to a specific phenomenon (subordinate clauses), HSs show similarities and differences to MSs of both languages. Concerning the distribution of subordinate clause types, HSs behave similarly to both English and German MSs. Concerning subordinate clauses in general, HSs use them less frequently than MSs in German. In English, the difference is more nuanced: HSs differentiate between settings in both modes, while MSs do so only in the written mode. This indicates that the category “native speaker” is not a meaningful descriptor since it covers speakers with varying production patterns. We propose that studies including native speakers should assure transparency and replicability of research by specifying and taking into account speaker characteristics such as bilingualism, proficiency, exposure and dominance.
Designing an Effective Learning Environment for Language Learning During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Betoncu Olkan , Faslı Funda G. , Ozdamli Fezile
Published: October 2021

The rapid development in IT in the twenty-first century have along with the COVID-19 pandemic have had effects on the field of education, with the need to use technology for educational purposes arising. Mobile phones, which hold a more important place than computers, also became a part of education. In today's world, it is possible to access educational content without any limitation of time and space. Individuals who desire to learn a new language but cannot do so due to financial difficulties or free time have moved toward mobile learning methods. “YIT101” is a mobile application designed to teach Turkish as a foreign language independent from time and location and targets basic Turkish A1 level course content. This application enables users to access information when needed and to learn Turkish as a foreign language outside the classroom environment independent from a formal instructor, allowing them to save time.
Microbial Fuel Cell Based Thermosensor for Robotic Applications
Authors: Greenman John , Mendis Arjuna , You Jiseon , Gajda Iwona , Horsfield Ian , Ieropoulos Ioannis
Published: October 2021

On the roadmap to building completely autonomous artificial bio-robots, all major aspects of robotic functions, namely, energy generation, processing, sensing, and actuation, need to be self-sustainable and function in the biological realm. Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) provide a platform technology for achieving this goal. In a series of experiments, we demonstrate that MFCs can be used as living, autonomous sensors in robotics. In this work, we focus on thermal sensing that is akin to thermoreceptors in mammalian entities. We therefore designed and tested an MFC-based thermosensor system for utilization within artificial bio-robots such as EcoBots. In open-loop sensor characterization, with a controlled load resistance and feed rate, the MFC thermoreceptor was able to detect stimuli of 1 min directed from a distance of 10 cm causing a temperature rise of ∼1°C at the thermoreceptor. The thermoreceptor responded to continuous stimuli with a minimum interval of 384 s. In a practical demonstration, a mobile robot was fitted with two artificial thermosensors, as environmental thermal detectors for thermotactic application, mimicking thermotaxis in biology. In closed-loop applications, continuous thermal stimuli were detected at a minimum time interval of 160 s, without the need for complete thermoreceptor recovery. This enabled the robot to detect thermal stimuli and steer away from a warmer thermal source within the rise of 1°C. We envision that the thermosensor can be used for future applications in robotics, including as a potential sensor mechanism for maintaining thermal homeostasis.
On the Mathematical Modeling of Slender Biomedical Continuum Robots
Authors: Gilbert Hunter B.
Published: October 2021

The passive, mechanical adaptation of slender, deformable robots to their environment, whether the robot be made of hard materials or soft ones, makes them desirable as tools for medical procedures. Their reduced physical compliance can provide a form of embodied intelligence that allows the natural dynamics of interaction between the robot and its environment to guide the evolution of the combined robot-environment system. To design these systems, the problems of analysis, design optimization, control, and motion planning remain of great importance because, in general, the advantages afforded by increased mechanical compliance must be balanced against penalties such as slower dynamics, increased difficulty in the design of control systems, and greater kinematic uncertainty. The models that form the basis of these problems should be reasonably accurate yet not prohibitively expensive to formulate and solve. In this article, the state-of-the-art modeling techniques for continuum robots are reviewed and cast in a common language. Classical theories of mechanics are used to outline formal guidelines for the selection of appropriate degrees of freedom in models of continuum robots, both in terms of number and of quality, for geometrically nonlinear models built from the general family of one-dimensional rod models of continuum mechanics. Consideration is also given to the variety of actuators found in existing designs, the types of interaction that occur between continuum robots and their biomedical environments, the imposition of constraints on degrees of freedom, and to the numerical solution of the family of models under study. Finally, some open problems of modeling are discussed and future challenges are identified.
HIV Knowledge Among Cisgender Female Sex Workers of Haitian Descent Working at the Border of Haiti and Dominican Republic
Authors: Budhwani Henna , Hearld Kristine R. , Hasbun Julia , Waters John
Published: October 2021

In this brief report, we aim to assess levels of HIV mis-information among cisgender Haitian female sex workers engaged in sex work at the Haiti and Dominican Republic border. We conducted bivariate analyses on the 2014 Border Study on Sex Workers comparing responses from female sex workers on the Haiti side of the border to those from their peers on the Dominican Republic side (N = 212). Prevention of HIV acquisition by correct and consistent condom use with each sex act was correctly endorsed by 90.5% of female sex workers in Haiti but only 57.0% of their peers in Dominican Republic (χ2 = 32.28, p < 0.001); 84.1% of respondents in Haiti correctly identified that HIV can be transmitted through a single unprotected sexual act, compared to 52.3% in Dominican Republic (χ2 = 25.2, p < 0.001). Significantly higher percentages of female sex workers in Dominican Republic correctly responded that HIV can be transmitted in pregnancy, compared to respondents in Haiti (96.5 vs. 71.4%; χ2 = 21.42, p < 0.001). Higher percentages of respondents in Dominican Republic correctly answered that HIV can be transmitted through needle sharing, relative to respondents in Haiti (100.0 vs. 89.7%; χ2 = 9.45, p < 0.01). Respondents in Dominican Republic more accurately rejected the possibility of transmission through food or through mosquito bites, compared to respondents in Haiti (95.4 vs. 81.8%, χ2 = 8.51, p < 0.01; 97.7 vs. 86.5%, χ2 = 7.81, p < 0.01, respectively). Findings indicate that if HIV knowledge is examined aggregating responses to individual questions, then elements of misinformation may remain unaddressed. For example, we found significant differences in correct answers ranging from 16.7 to 100.0%.
A Mythic Labyrinth Inside Your Vehicle Prevents Gasoline Leakage
Authors: Gutiérrez-Martínez Joel , López-Lozano Nguyen Esmeralda
Published: October 2021

It is hard to believe that our vehicles can contaminate the environment even when they are not running. This is a consequence of evaporated gasoline leaking from a vehicle’s fuel tank into the atmosphere. To avoid this leakage, evaporated gasoline is vented to a canister packed with charcoal particles called activated carbon. There are deep, channel-like spaces inside activated carbon where gasoline molecules are adsorbed. Adsorption is a process in which molecules of gas or liquid stick to the surface of something solid. Through adsorption it is possible to remove various pollutants from air and water. To understand how adsorption by activated carbon works, picture activated carbon as a maze that traps the gasoline particles and does not let them escape. Finally, we describe current efforts to develop new adsorbing materials from the waste product of another industry, to improve upon the activated carbon currently used in vehicles.
Not Breathing During the Approach Phase Ameliorates Freestyle Turn Performance in Prepubertal Swimmers
Authors: Faelli Emanuela , Strassera Laura , Ottobrini Sara , Ferrando Vittoria , Bisio Ambra , Puce Luca , Panascì Marco , Lagorio Cesare , Ruggeri Piero , Bove Marco
Published: October 2021

This study compared the effects of two breathing conditions during the freestyle turn approach phase in swimmers. Thirty-four prepubertal swimmers (mean ± SD: 10.59 ± 0.97 years) were divided into two groups: No Breath (NB), not breathing at the last stroke, and Breath Stroke (BS). Swimmers performed three turns with 5 min of rest between the repetitions. Kinematic parameters were recorded with two underwater and two surface cameras. Total turn time (NB: 9.31 ± 1.34 s; BS: 10.31 ± 1.80 s; p = 0.049), swim-in time (NB: 3.89 ± 0.63 s; BS 4.50 ± 0.79 s; p = 0.02) and rotation time (NB: 2.42 ± 0.29 s; BS: 3.03 ± 0.41 s; p = 0.0001) were significantly shorter and swim-in distance [NB: 0.70 (0.58,0.77) m; BS: 0.47 (0.34,0.55) m; p = 0.0001], glide distance (NB: 1.06 ± 0.21 m; BS: 0.70 ± 0.20 m; p = 0.0001) and surfacing distance [NB: 1.79 (1.19,2.24) m; BS: 1.18 (0.82,1.79) m; p = 0.043] were significantly longer in NB than in BS. Moreover, speed-in (NB: 1.04 ± 0.14 m/s; BS: 0.93 ± 0.14 m/s; p = 0.031) and push-off speed (NB: 2.52 ± 0.30 m/s; BS: 1.23 ± 0.20 m/s; p = 0.001) were significantly higher in NB than in BS. Swim-in time was positively and negatively correlated with rotation time and glide distance, respectively, whilst negative relationships between total turn time and swim-in distance, total turn time and surfacing distance and total turn time and speed-in were found. Our study showed that in prepubertal swimmers not breathing at the last stroke during the approach phase positively affected kinematic parameters of the turn, allowing to approach the wall faster, rotate the body quicker, increase push-off speed, reduce turn execution time, thus improving overall turn performance.
Case Report: Suspected Solitary Osseous Plasmacytoma in a Cat: Use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Diagnose and Confirm Resolution of Disease Following Chemotherapy
Authors: Moore Talisha M. , Thomovsky Stephanie A. , Thompson Craig A. , Heng Hock Gan , Bentley R. Timothy
Published: October 2021

A 9-year-old female spayed Domestic Shorthair cat presented for pain, reluctance to jump, and hyporexia of 14 days duration. Neurologic examination was consistent with C6-T2 myelopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a solitary, contrast-enhancing lesion within the T2 vertebral body. Solitary osseous plasmacytoma was diagnosed based on neurologic examination, advanced imaging, and clinicopathologic findings. Melphalan and prednisolone therapy were initiated. Complete resolution of clinical signs and the vertebral lesion were documented at a 2-year follow up examination with neurologic examination and repeat spinal MRI, respectively. Solitary osseous plasmacytoma are rare neoplasms in humans and domestic animals. As such, there is a paucity of published information regarding diagnostic criteria, MRI findings, treatment modalities, progression, and remission of disease in the feline patient. Most data are extrapolated from human medicine. The purpose of this report is to document neurologic exam and MR findings at the time of diagnosis and complete resolution of a solitary osseous vertebral plasmacytoma following melphalan and prednisolone therapy.
The drug Argovit for treatment of piglets when intestinal infections
Authors: Raitskaya V. I.
Published: October 2021

The drug Argovit developed in the LLC Vector-Vita Research and Production Center has antimicrobial and astringent properties, easily fits into the technology of housing farm animals and poultry in cases of uncomplicated colibacteriosis and is effective in isolated use, it is cheaper than other drugs, which makes it attractive in the modern market of biological products. The purpose of the research was to study the effectiveness of the drug Argovit for the treatment and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases of piglets in comparison with the basic drug Baitril used in the farm. Piglets of the experimental group (n=20) with the syndrome of gastrointestinal diseases have been treated with 1,0 % aqueous solution of the drug Argovit at a dose of 2 ml/kg of live weight 2 times a day until clinical recovery. The drug contributed to a lighter course and reduced the duration of the disease by half, while the livability of piglets reached 90,0 %. There was also a weakening of inflammatory processes in the body of piglets of both groups, which was characterized by the decrease in the level of leukocytes in piglets of the experimental group during treatment from 12,9±0,75 to 10,1±0,89×10⁹/l, and in the control group from 11,3±1,20 to 9,0±0,04×10⁹/l. The platelet content in animals at the beginning of the experiment was slightly higher than the lower limit of the norm in the experimental group by 1,8 %, in the control group by 4,7 %. At the same time, the restoration of homeostasis and the decrease in the level of protein in the blood serum have been observed. It has been found that the use of the drug Argovit to piglets during the suckling period and after weaning improves the morphological and biochemical parameters of blood due to the protective forces of protein by 4,7 %, reduces the phenomena of diarrhea, and as a result increases their livability.
Heat synchronization and the effectiveness of insemination of cows of Holstein breed under the conditions of the dairy complex
Authors: Lyashenko V. V. , Kaeshova I. V. , Gubina A. V.
Published: October 2021

The food security of country is largely determined by the development of animal husbandry branches. Dairy cattle breeding is of particular importance, which has been actively developing in recent years due to the modernization of farms and complexes, the introduction of innovative technologies and the formation of a highly productive breeding herd. The most important link in the development of dairy cattle breeding is the reproduction of the herd. Modern technologies make it possible to use hormonal drugs in order to optimize the reproductive traits of animals. The results of clinical and experimental studies have shown the important role of hormones in the regulation of physiological functions, as well as the possibility of their use for directed changes in metabolism, productivity and fertility of animals. The purpose of the research was to assess the influence of methods of synchronization of heat of cows on the pregnancy rate under the conditions of the dairy complex. The research data on the effectiveness of insemination when identifying animals in visually heat and using Heatime neck strips, as well as when using heat synchronization programs such as Presynch and Double Ovsynch have been presented in the article. The research has been carried out under the conditions of a modern dairy complex on a highly productive herd of cows of Holstein breed. Differences in the effectiveness of insemination by using the studied methods were revealed from 49,1 to 72,5 %. The highest conception rate has been observed in first-calf heifers (83,0 %) and cows (62,5 %) inseminated using the Double Ovsynch protocol. The dependence of the level of conception rate on the presence of diseases suffered by cows during the newcalving period and until the moment of insemination has been noted. In sick animals, the conception rate for groups of first-calf heifers and cows was significantly lower than in healthy animals. Thus, according to the Double Ovsynch insemination protocol, the conception rate in healthy animals was 83,7 %, and in those who were ill – 65,2 %. The research results confi rmed the validity of stopping the use of the Presynch protocol and completely transferring the dairy herd of cows to synchronization and insemination using the Double Ovsynch protocol.
Analysis of the production of major agricultural crops in the Orenburg region
Authors: Dusaev Kh. B. , Dusaeva A. Kh.
Published: October 2021

A detailed analysis of the production of the main agricultural crops in the Orenburg region for a long-term period, taking into account of their sown areas, gross yields and yields in farms of all categories has been provided in the article. The purpose of the research was to analyze the production of the main agricultural crops in the Orenburg region. Based on the conducted research, transformational changes and trends in the regional production of grain, potatoes and vegetable crops have been identified. During the study period, a gradual reduction in the acreage of grain and leguminous crops in the region was revealed with stabilization at the level of 2,7 million hectares with a wide range of variations in gross yields and productivity depending on the weather and climatic conditions of cultivation. The gross harvest of grain and leguminous crops in farms of all categories during the study period varied in a very wide range of 739,6–4207,2 thousand tons. The biggest gross harvests of grain and leguminous crops were observed in 2000, 2016 and 2017, respectively, 3141,7, 3138,6 and 4207,2 thousand tons in association with the most favorable natural and climatic conditions of their cultivation. There was the reduction in the area, the decrease in gross yields and the tendency to increase the yield of potatoes and vegetable crops in farms of all categories. Based on the analysis, measures are proposed to optimize the acreage, increase the gross yield and productivity of the main agricultural crops in the agricultural sector of the regional agro-industrial complex, as well as a set of measures for sustainable development and effective functioning of regional agricultural production with the possibility of applied use in other regions of the Russian Federation.
Instrumentos innovadores, cooperación financiera, Sur-Sur y Triangular
Authors: Xalma Cristina , Rivero Martín
Published: October 2021

En el momento de redactar este artículo, se había cumplido poco más de un año desde que la Organiza- ción Mundial de la Salud declarara el 11 de marzo de 2020 que el mundo estaba sufriendo una pandemia que ha provocado una crisis global de dimensiones muy significativas. En términos históricos, es poco el tiempo transcurrido. Sin embargo, sus graves consecuencias obligan a abordar con el mayor de los detalles qué respuesta está dando la comunidad internacional para tratar de superarla, y cómo hacerlo sin renunciar a los compromisos de inclusión y sostenibilidad que el mundo se propuso alcanzar a través del logro de la Agenda 2030. A estos efectos, y en el marco de incertidumbre que aún persiste, este artículo analiza las soluciones adoptadas para hacer frente a la COVID-19, desde los ámbitos global, de la Unión Europea (UE) y de América Latina y el Caribe. Para ello examina, primero, la respuesta dada desde el multilateralismo: se estudia el modo en que esta se ha ido moldeado —desde la emergencia hasta la búsqueda de soluciones de más largo plazo—, y se identifican y caracterizan los instrumentos innovadores impulsados para tratar de superar la crisis global. En un segundo bloque, el artículo se centra en otra herramienta que puede contribuir a esa respuesta: la cooperación internacional, con un eje especial en la UE y en la alianza entre esta y América Latina y el Caribe, en las modalidades de Cooperación Sur-Sur y Cooperación Triangular.
Sacred mythopetronym as a spiritual and moral value of the North Caucasian culture
Authors: Martazanov Arsamak Magomedovich , Karabulatova Irina Sovetovna , Martazanova Khanifa Magamedovna , Sarbasheva Alena Mustafaevna
Published: October 2021

Mythology is a necessary stage of cultural development in the history of any nation. When a person creates myths, he is in search of the meaning of life and tries to: 1) to fit your life into the framework of a larger whole; 2) to discover a certain structure underlying being; 3) to understand, despite everything, that life has meaning and value. The mythologeme "split stone" in the ethnoculture of the peoples of the North Caucasus, reflected in the novels of the Ingush writer I. Bazorkin, echoes the primitive ideas about the arrangement of the world among different peoples of the world. Since the ethnolinguoculture of the peoples of the Caucasus stands apart among various language classifications, we turn to the analysis of the concept-mythonym "split stone" to identify general and moments of interpretation of the meaning of this concept. Hypothesis: the concept of "split stone" is the basic ethnic idea of the Ingush about the structure of the world order, about the influence of moral qualities of a person on the properties of the surrounding world.
New challenges in the problem of combating human trafficking in Ukraine
Authors: Danylchuk Larysa , Yosyfovych Danylo , Kohut Yaroslav , Todortseva Yuliia , Kozyra Petro
Published: October 2021

The article presents the author’s results of theoretical and empirical analyzes of challenges in combating human trafficking in Ukraine. Theoretical analysis showed that human trafficking is an interdisciplinary problem and is represented by a number of studies by scientists in various scientific fields in the domestic and foreign scientific space. It has been established that currently there is no research on new challenges in combating human trafficking in Ukraine. Empirical analysis of new challenges in combating trafficking in human beings in Ukraine was carried out through the implementation of a polygon study and interpretation of the results. The obtained data outline new challenges in the problem of combating human trafficking in Ukraine, such as: use for selfish purposes, forced donation, trade in biological/genetic material, reproductive programs/surrogacy. The results suggest that the new challenges in combating human trafficking in Ukraine are a real platform for transnational crime. It was stated that such circumstances require strengthening of international cooperation in combating transnational human trafficking, legal regulation and improving the domestic legal framework with systematic and full informing of Ukrainian people about consequences and new challenges in combating human trafficking.
Cyber-addictions of the Ukrainian youth
Authors: Asieieva Yuliia , Aymedov Constantine , Horishchak Serhii , Mierlich Sergii , Riabukhin Konstiantyn
Published: October 2021

The work is devoted to the study of the problem of dependence on cyberspace of young people. Experts increasingly believe that cyber-addiction is a pathological urge or disease that belongs to the category of non-chemical dependencies and has its own nosology, etiology, pathogenesis and requires prevention, treatment and psycho-correction. Thanks to the analysis of scientific achievements, their actual types were determined, a comprehensive model of classification was built taking into account socially accepted, pathological and cyber-addiction; the stages of cyber-addiction formation are separated.

Thanks to the developed and tested method «Test-questionnaire for detecting cyber-addiction», it was found that the most typical addictions for young people are: computer addiction, Internet addiction, game addiction and gadget addiction; girls are more typical: cyber communicative addiction and selfitis. When considering age characteristics, it was found that the highest rates of 3rd degree of addiction are among people aged 19 to 21, a more even distribution of 2nd and 3rd degrees of addiction among people aged 14 to 15 years. Due to the factor analysis of the obtained results, it was established that an addict can have not one dependence, but several, although each of them may have a different degree of manifestation.
Development of small innovative business in the Russian economy
Authors: Novikov Sergey V. , Tikhonov Gennady V.
Published: October 2021

The article is devoted to small entrepreneurship in the scientific and technical sphere, despite the recognition of its right to state support, it has a significant difference from scientific and technical and the so-called earlier implementation activities characteristic of the period preceding economic reforms. A significant place in the article is given to the development of mathematical modeling in the system of innovative entrepreneurship in modern crisis conditions. Adaptability and flexibility are considered as the most important indicators of the efficiency of structures, their ability to ensure sustainable operation and effective innovative development of small businesses. The issues of scientific, technical and innovative activities in small business and in the public sector of the economy on the conjugation of adaptability and flexibility are considered. A number of modern techniques related to the development of mathematical modeling of the development of small enterprises in innovative activities in a crisis are analyzed. The necessity of mathematical modeling as the main factor in the implementation of financial support for small business in innovation, for which conventional methods are unacceptable, has been substantiated. The proposed approach should be considered as a guideline when assessing the mechanism for allocating funds from the budget for the development of small business in innovation.
Intelligibility of a criminal law: Theoretical and practical aspects
Authors: Musychenko Olha , Streltsov Yevgen , Kozachenko Oleksandr , Vasyliaka Olesya , Chornozub Larysa
Published: October 2021

The main task of the article is to study a separate qualitative property criminal law its intelligibility. When solving the problem the definition of intelligibility of the criminal law taking into account genesis is formulated this concept and different approaches to its content, which have developed in modern law doctrine. In order to substantiate the author's approach to the definition of intelligibility of the criminal law the monitoring of normative-legal acts, decisions of national and international judicial authorities is carried out.

It is shown that the term ‘intelligibility of law’ and related terms ‘clear’, ‘precise’, ‘simple’ law are actively used both in regulations and in decisions of national and international judicial authorities. However, the terminology is diverse, thereby it has been suggested in the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights to use the term ‘intelligibility’of the law, which is the most accurate and adequately reflects the assessment of the legal certainty of national laws.

The general conclusion is substantiated that in modern doctrine there are three approaches to determining the legal nature of the intelligibility of the law: as a component of the rule of law, as a requirement for the language of law, as a qualitative property of law. The absence of antagonistic features in each of the approaches allowed to use the positive gains of different perceptions of the intelligibility of the criminal law and to define it.
A nanoemulsion of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil with allelopathic effect against Lactuca sativa L. seeds / Uma nanoemulsão a partir do óleo essencial de Rosmarinus officinalis L com efeito alelopático em sementes de Lactuca sativa L
Authors: Chamoun Luciana Barbosa Soares , Filho Josinei Rodrigues , Corte Viviana Borges , Perin Idalina Tereza De Almeida Leite , Fernandes Caio Pinho , Cruz Rodrigo Alves Soares , França Hildegardo Seibert
Published: October 2021

Plant's essential oils have a wide range of allelopathic effects with potential uses as bioherbicides. In addition, the application of oils through nanoemulsions represents a promising alternative for agriculture, as it offers better performance and lowers toxic waste generation. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the chemical constitution of Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) essential oil, as well as its effects on germination, initial growth, Catalase (CAT), Peroxidase (POX), and Superoxide-Dismutase (SOD) enzymes activity of Lactuca sativa seeds. Nanoemulsions were produced at 5% concentration and then diluted with distilled water to 5.0, 7.0, and 10.0 mg/mL. We compared data obtained using variance (ANOVA) analysis, followed by Tukey's test at 5% probability. Rosemary oil showed a wide variety of terpenoid compounds, mainly the 1,8-cineol monoterpene, which accounted for 46% of the sample. The oil showed a dose-dependent negative allelopathic influence on all variables analyzed, causing a drop in germination percentage (%G), germination speed index (GVI), mean germination time (MTG), and leaf and root length. There was no change in CAT and SOD activity. The POX activity showed a reduction starting at the concentration of 7.0 mg/mL. The results showed allelopathic effects of rosemary oil, with potential use as a natural bioherbicide.
The atopic dermatitis’ impact on the life quality of pediatric patients and their caregivers / O impacto da dermatite atópica na qualidade de vida dos pacientes pediátricos e seus cuidadores
Authors: Massad Raquel Dutra , Leite Cleber Queiroz , Queiroz Lorena Isabely Silva , Kestering Renata Mesquita , Da Silva Poliana Alves , Cardoso Raquel Panta , Bonfá Andreska Lara Silva , Feitosa Vivianne Gomes , Da Silva Safyra Zampieron Bezerra , Lopes Pedro Henrique Nunes da Silva , Dos Santos Brian França , Da Fonseca Joice Trigo , Dos Santos Mariana Bezerra
Published: October 2021

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory dermatoses, pruritic and relapsing, with variable density in which attacks mostly patients in pediatric age group. Therefore, the disease can cause a series of psychological and social damage because of its consequences at the family’s routine. Thus, the disease gets involved at the daily activities and interpersonal relationship. In summary, this study objective is to review articles about atopic dermatitis’ impact on the life quality of pediatric patients and their caregivers, using integrative review and literature's descriptive as a method, with a quality approach, at SciELO and Google Scholar data base in the month of June of 2021 with the words: “atopic eczema”, “children”, “relatives” and “welfare”. It was found 200 articles written in English, Portuguese and Spanish, published between 2012 and 2021 that had public access. From this number, 11 studies were selected to compose this review’s data base. In conclusion, the atopic dermatitis negatively affects the daily life of pediatric patients and their caregivers. The discomfort caused by the pruritic eczema adds to sleep deprivation and affects the children’s development at school, family and psychosocial life. The worst of this disease is related to bad quality of life index. A better understanding of atopic dermatitis’ impact can positively affect the patient’s frequent treatment and therapeutic strategies.
APLICAÇÃO DA QUIMIOMETRIA ALIADA AO USO DE UM SMARTPHONE EM AULAS PRÁTICAS DE QUÍMICA VISANDO DETERMINAR ADULTERAÇÃO EM AZEITE DE OLIVA EXTRA VIRGEM
Authors: Pinho Jéssica da Silva Alves de , Seabra Jean de Aguiar , Silva Rodrigo Ventura da , Cosenza Carlos Alberto Nunes
Published: October 2021

A proposta deste trabalho foi demonstrar como uma técnica alternativa que é rápida e barata pode ser usada para fins de ensino de química como uma alternativa a espectrofotometria no UV-Vis. Tal proposta se baseou no uso da análise de imagem digital, usando o pacote EBImage disponível no software R. Tal pacote permite a decomposição de uma imagem no sistema de cores RGB (vermelho, verde e azul) para fins de quantificação. Para aplicação da metodologia, se trabalhou com a quantificação do teor de adulteração do azeite extra virgem com óleo de soja. A curva analítica teve a concentração de óleo sendo usado para adulteração variando de 0 – 25% v/v. Dessa forma, após a mistuta do azeite e óleos nas proporções estipuladas foi possível se adquirir as imagens por meio de um smartphone e tratá-las posteriormente no software R. As mesmas misturas foram analisadas em um espectrofotômetro no UV-Vis para comparação entre os resultados obtidos. A comparação demonstrou que a análise de imagem digital tem forte potencial para ser utilizada, considerando-se não apenas a otimização da metodologia alternativa proposta assim como sua validação. Por meio do proposto foi possível se trabalhar com diferentes conceitos de quimiometria, tais como calibração de ordem zero, método da distância ortogonal, que foi usado para fins de comparação entre as técnicas utilizadas.
Evaluation of the in vitro trypanocidal activity of triterpenes uvaol, betulinic acid and its semi-synthetic derivatives against the Y strain of Trypanosoma cruzi / Avaliação da atividade tripanocida in vitro dos triterpenos uvaol, ácido betulínico e seus derivados semissintéticos contra a cepa Y de Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Júnior Moisés Soares Moreira , Flauzino Lúzio Gabriel Bocalon , Marçal Maria Gabriela , Ferreira Daniele da Silva , Pauletti Patrícia Mendonça , Januário Ana Helena , E Silva Márcio Luís Andrade , Magalhães Lizandra Guidi Magalhães , Cunha Wilson Roberto
Published: October 2021

Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) is the causative agent of Chagas disease and its transmission occurs through blood meal by triatomine bugs, being oral transmission the most common form. More than 100 years after the disease´s discovery, benzonidazole is the only efficient drug against T. cruzi; however, this drug has numerous serious side effects and is only efficient in the acute phase of the disease. Natural products, such as triterpenes, have been an important source of new substances to combat human parasitology. In this study, two triterpenes, uvaol and betulinic acid, were tested against the parasite T. cruzi. The best results of in vitro tests were observed for uvaol with an IC50 value of 70.3 µM against the trypomastigost forms and an IC50 value of 90.6 µM against the amastigost forms. Three semi-synthetic derivatives of betulinic acid were obtained; the acetylated derivative showed excellent results against trypomastigotes forms (IC50 = 15.67 µM), but was not active against the amastigotes forms. The cytotoxic MTT test was also performed on LLCMK2 cells (Macaca mullata kidney epithelial cells) and betulinic acid showed the highest selectivity index (SI) with a value of 1.3.