bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mismatch of thermal optima between performance measures, life stages and species of spiny lobster
Authors: Twiname Samantha , Fitzgibbon Quinn P. , Hobday Alistair J. , Carter Chris G. , Oellermann Michael , Pecl Gretta T.
Published: December 2020

In an ocean warming hotspot off south-east Australia, many species have expanded their ranges polewards, including the eastern rock lobster,Sagmariasus verreauxi. This species is likely extending its range via larval advection into Tasmanian coastal waters, which are occupied by the more commercially important southern rock lobster,Jasus edwardsii. Here, thermal tolerances of these lobster species at two life stages were investigated to assess how they may respond to warming ocean temperatures. We found that the pattern, optimum and magnitude of thermal responses differed between performance measures, life stages and species.Sagmariasus verreauxihad a warmer optimal temperature for aerobic scope and escape speed thanJ. edwardsii. However,J. edwardsiihad a higher magnitude of escape speed, indicating higher capacity for escape performance. There were also differences between life stages within species, with the larval stage having higher variation in optimal temperatures between measures than juveniles. This inconsistency in performance optima and magnitude indicates that single performance measures at single life stages are unlikely to accurately predict whole animal performance in terms of life-time survival and fitness. However, combined results of this study suggest that with continued ocean warming,S. verreauxiis likely to continue to extend its distribution polewards and increase in abundance in Tasmania.
Neural bases for attenuation of morphine withdrawal by Heantos-4: role of l-tetrahydropalmatine
Authors: Ahn Soyon , Nesbit Maya O. , Zou Haiyan , Vacca Giada , Axerio-Cilies Peter , Van Sung Tran , Phillips Anthony G.
Published: December 2020

Severe withdrawal symptoms triggered by cessation of long-term opioid use deter many individuals from seeking treatment. Opioid substitution and α2-adrenergic agonists are the current standard of pharmacotherapy for opioid use disorder in western medicine; however, each is associated with significant complications. Heantos-4 is a non-opioid botanical formulation used to facilitate opioid detoxification in Vietnam. While ongoing clinical use continues to validate its safety and effectiveness, a mechanism of action accounting for these promising effects remains to be specified. Here, we assess the effects of Heantos-4 in a rat model of morphine-dependence and present evidence that alleviation of naloxone-precipitated somatic withdrawal signs is related to an upregulation of mesolimbic dopamine activity and a consequent reversal of a hypodopaminergic state in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region implicated in opioid withdrawal. A central dopaminergic mechanism is further supported by the identification of l-tetrahydropalmatine as a key active ingredient in Heantos-4, which crosses the blood–brain barrier and shows a therapeutic efficacy comparable to its parent formulation in attenuating withdrawal signs. The anti-hypodopaminergic effects of l-tetrahydropalmatine may be related to antagonism of the dopamine autoreceptor, thus constituting a plausible mechanism contributing to the effectiveness of Heantos-4 in facilitating opioid detoxification.
DNA methyltransferase 3B plays a protective role against hepatocarcinogenesis caused by chronic inflammation via maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis
Authors: Iguchi Eriko , Takai Atsushi , Takeda Haruhiko , Kumagai Ken , Arasawa Soichi , Eso Yuji , Shimizu Takahiro , Ueda Yoshihide , Marusawa Hiroyuki , Seno Hiroshi
Published: December 2020

Most hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) develop on the basis of chronic hepatitis, but the mechanism of epigenetic regulation in inflammatory hepatocarcinogenesis has yet to be elucidated. Among de novo DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), DNMT3B has lately been reported to act specifically on actively transcribed genes, suggesting the possibility that it plays a role in the pathogenesis of cancer. We confirmed that DNMT3B isoforms lacking its catalytic domain were highly expressed in HCCs compared with non-tumorous liver tissue. To elucidate the role of DNMT3B in hepatocarcinogenesis, we generated a genetically engineered mouse model with hepatocyte-specific Dnmt3b deletion. The liver of the Dnmt3b-deficient mice exhibited an exacerbation of thioacetamide-induced hepatitis, progression of liver fibrosis and a higher incidence of HCC compared with the liver of the control mice. Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing verified a lower CG methylation level in the Dnmt3b-deficient liver, demonstrating differentially methylated regions throughout the genome. Transcriptome analysis revealed decreased expression of genes related to oxidative phosphorylation in the Dnmt3b-deficient liver. Moreover, primary hepatocytes isolated from the Dnmt3b-deficient mice showed reduced mitochondrial respiratory capacity, leading to the enhancement of oxidative stress in the liver tissue. Our findings suggest the protective role of DNMT3B against chronic inflammation and HCC development via maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis.
Positioning of an unprecedented spiro[5.5]undeca ring system into kinase inhibitor space
Authors: Venkanna Arramshetti , Subedi Lalita , Teli Mahesh K. , Lama Prema Dhorma , Nangunuri Bhargav Gupta , Lee Sang-Yoon , Kim Sun Yeou , Kim Mi-hyun
Published: December 2020

In-house 1,5-oxaza spiroquinone 1, with spiro[5.5]undeca ring system, was announced as an unprecedented anti-inflammatory scaffold through chemistry-oriented synthesis (ChOS), a chemocentric approach. Herein, we studied how to best position the spiro[5.5]undeca ring system in kinase inhibitor space. Notably, late-stage modification of the scaffold 1 into compounds 2a-r enhanced kinase-likeness of the scaffold 1. The improvement could be depicted with (1) selectivity with target shift (from JNK-1 into GSK-3) and (2) potency (> 20-fold). In addition, ATP independent IC50 of compound 2j suggested a unique binding mode of this scaffold between ATP site and substrate site, which was explained by docking based optimal site selection and molecular dynamic simulations of the optimal binding site. Despite the shift of kinase profiling, the anti-inflammatory activity of compounds 2a-r could be retained in hyperactivated microglial cells.
Selective cognitive dysfunction and physical disability improvement after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in highly active multiple sclerosis
Authors: Giedraitiene N. , Kizlaitiene R. , Peceliunas V. , Griskevicius L. , Kaubrys G.
Published: December 2020

The aim was to assess the cognitive dysfunction and physical disability after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT), to explore the potential factors influencing disability regression after AHSCT and to estimate the safety of low-dose immunosuppressive therapy in highly active Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients. In single-center prospective study patients who failed to conventional therapies for highly active relapsing MS underwent the AHSCT. The disability was followed up with Expanded Disability Status Scale and cognition with Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis. Twenty four patients [18 (72.0%) female] underwent AHSCT. Two patients of 13 had one relapse during the first year and three patients—during the second year after AHSCT. Disability regression was found in 84.6% of patients. The scores of information processing speed and verbal learning were significantly higher at month 12 after AHSCT. The clinical variable that explained the disability regression at months 6 and 12 after AHSCT was the disability progression over 6 months before AHSCT. No transplant related-deaths were observed. Selective cognitive improvement was found after AHSCT in MS patients. The disability may be temporarily reversible after AHSCT in a significant proportion of highly active RMS patients if AHSCT is well-timed performed.
Gastrointestinal adenocarcinoma analysis identifies promoter methylation-based cancer subtypes and signatures
Authors: Xiang Renshen , Fu Tao
Published: December 2020

Gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) and colon adenocarcinoma (CAC) are the most common gastrointestinal cancer subtypes, with a high incidence and mortality. Numerous studies have shown that its occurrence and progression are significantly related to abnormal DNA methylation, especially CpG island methylation. However, little is known about the application of DNA methylation in GAC and CAC. The methylation profiles were accessed from the Cancer Genome Atlas database to identify promoter methylation-based cancer subtypes and signatures for GAC and CAC. Six hypo-methylated clusters for GAC and six hyper-methylated clusters for CAC were separately generated with different OS profiles, tumor progression became worse as the methylation level decreased in GAC or increased in CAC, and hypomethylation in GAC and hypermethylation in CAC were negatively correlated with microsatellite instability. Additionally, the hypo- and hyper-methylated site-based signatures with high accuracy, high efficiency and strong independence can separately predict the OS of GAC and CAC patients. By integrating the methylation-based signatures with prognosis-related clinicopathologic characteristics, two clinicopathologic-epigenetic nomograms were cautiously established with strong predictive performance and high accuracy. Our research indicates that methylation mechanisms differ between GAC and CAC, and provides novel clinical biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of GAC and CAC.
High-throughput screening to discover inhibitors of the CarD·RNA polymerase protein–protein interaction in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Stefan Maxwell A. , Velazquez Glory M. , Garcia George A.
Published: December 2020

Multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-TB) accounts for 3.7% of new cases of TB annually worldwide and is a major threat to global public health. Due to the prevalence of the MDR-TB and extensively drug resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) cases, there is an urgent need for new drugs with novel mechanisms of action. CarD, a global transcription regulator in MTB, binds RNAP and activates transcription by stabilizing the transcription initiation open-promoter complex (RPo). CarD is required for MTB viability and it has highly conserved homologues in many eubacteria. A fluorescence polarization (FP) assay which monitors the association of MTB RNAP, native rRNA promoter DNA and CarD has been developed. Overall, our objective is to identify and characterize small molecule inhibitors which block the CarD/RNAP interaction and to understand the mechanisms by which CarD interacts with the molecules. We expect that the development of a new and improved anti-TB compound with a novel mechanism of action will relieve the burden of resistance. This CarD FP assay is amenable to HTS and is an enabling tool for future novel therapeutic discovery.
Abiotic stressors impact outer membrane vesicle composition in a beneficial rhizobacterium: Raman spectroscopy characterization
Authors: Potter Matthew , Hanson Cynthia , Anderson Anne J. , Vargis Elizabeth , Britt David W.
Published: December 2020

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) produced by Gram-negative bacteria have roles in cell-to-cell signaling, biofilm formation, and stress responses. Here, the effects of abiotic stressors on OMV contents and composition from biofilm cells of the plant health-promoting bacterium Pseudomonas chlororaphis O6 (PcO6) are examined. Two stressors relevant to this root-colonizing bacterium were examined: CuO nanoparticles (NPs)-a potential fertilizer and fungicide- and H2O2-released from roots during plant stress responses. Atomic force microscopy revealed 40–300 nm diameter OMVs from control and stressed biofilm cells. Raman spectroscopy with linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was used to identify changes in chemical profiles of PcO6 cells and resultant OMVs according to the cellular stressor with 84.7% and 83.3% accuracies, respectively. All OMVs had higher relative concentrations of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids than PcO6 cells. The nucleic acid concentration in OMVs exhibited a cellular stressor-dependent increase: CuO NP-induced OMVs > H2O2-induced OMVs > control OMVs. Biochemical assays confirmed the presence of lipopolysaccharides, nucleic acids, and protein in OMVs; however, these assays did not discriminate OMV composition according to the cellular stressor. These results demonstrate the sensitivity of Raman spectroscopy using LDA to characterize and distinguish cellular stress effects on OMVs composition and contents.
Radiological screening of maternal periodontitis for predicting adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes
Authors: Heo Ju Sun , Ahn Ki Hoon , Park Jung Soo
Published: December 2020

It is well known that periodontitis, diagnosed mainly by periodontal probing, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, periodontal probing is time-consuming, highly discomforting, inaccurate, and invasive. We aimed to assess whether periodontitis severity based on radiological staging in accordance with the 2017 new consensus classification was related to adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. The medical records of 165 mothers who underwent panoramic radiography within 5 years before and after the time of delivery and of their singleton neonates were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty-two mothers (13.3%) had severe periodontitis (SP), and 143 (86.7%) had mild or moderate periodontitis (MP). In relation to adverse pregnancy outcomes, uterine leiomyoma (18.2% vs. 4.2%,P = 0.029), chronic hypertension (9.1% vs. 0.7%,P = 0.047), and preeclampsia (13.6% vs. 2.1%,P = 0.032) occurred significantly more frequently in the SP group than in the MP group. The incidences of very preterm birth (13.6% vs. 1.4%,P = 0.017), extremely preterm birth (9.1% vs. 0.7%,P = 0.047), and small for gestational age (22.7% vs. 5.6%,P = 0.017) were also significantly higher in the SP group than in the MP group. Radiological screening of maternal periodontitis could be useful for predicting adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes as well as diagnosing SP in pregnant women.
Association of clozapine-related metabolic disturbances with CYP3A4 expression in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Menus Ádám , Kiss Ádám , Tóth Katalin , Sirok Dávid , Déri Máté , Fekete Ferenc , Csukly Gábor , Monostory Katalin
Published: December 2020

Clozapine is effective in treatment-resistant schizophrenia; however, adverse effects often result in discontinuation of clozapine therapy. Many of the side-effects are associated with pharmacokinetic variations; therefore, the expression of major clozapine-metabolizing enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP3A4) in patients may predict development of adverse effects. In patients with schizophrenia (N = 96), development of clozapine concentration-dependent metabolic side-effects was found to be associated with pharmacokinetic variability related to CYP3A4 but not to CYP1A2 expression. In low CYP3A4 expressers, significant correlation was detected between fasting glucose level and clozapine concentration; moreover, the incidence of abnormal glucose level was associated with exaggerated clozapine concentrations (> 600 ng/ml). In low CYP3A4 expressers, exaggerated concentrations were more frequently observed than in normal/high expressers. Moderate/high risk obesity (BMI ≥ 35) more frequently occurred in low CYP3A4 expresser patients than in normal/high expressers. In patients with normal/high CYP3A4 expression and consequently with extensive clozapine-metabolizing capacity, norclozapine/clozapine ratio correlated with fasting glucose levels, triglyceride concentrations and BMI. Low CYP3A4 expression often resulting in exaggerated clozapine concentrations was considered to be as an important risk factor for some concentration-dependent adverse effects as normal/high CYP3A4 expression evoking high norclozapine/clozapine ratios. CYP3A4-status can identify patients with increased risk for metabolic side-effects and prevent their development by careful therapeutic strategy.
The substrate specificity of the human TRAPPII complex’s Rab-guanine nucleotide exchange factor activity
Authors: Jenkins Meredith L. , Harris Noah J. , Dalwadi Udit , Fleming Kaelin D. , Ziemianowicz Daniel S. , Rafiei Atefeh , Martin Emily M. , Schriemer David C. , Yip Calvin K. , Burke John E.
Published: December 2020

The TRAnsport Protein Particle (TRAPP) complexes act as Guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) for Rab GTPases, which are master regulators of membrane trafficking in eukaryotic cells. In metazoans, there are two large multi-protein TRAPP complexes: TRAPPII and TRAPPIII, with the TRAPPII complex able to activate both Rab1 and Rab11. Here we present detailed biochemical characterisation of Rab-GEF specificity of the human TRAPPII complex, and molecular insight into Rab binding. GEF assays of the TRAPPII complex against a panel of 20 different Rab GTPases revealed GEF activity on Rab43 and Rab19. Electron microscopy and chemical cross-linking revealed the architecture of mammalian TRAPPII. Hydrogen deuterium exchange MS showed that Rab1, Rab11 and Rab43 share a conserved binding interface. Clinical mutations in Rab11, and phosphomimics of Rab43, showed decreased TRAPPII GEF mediated exchange. Finally, we designed a Rab11 mutation that maintained TRAPPII-mediated GEF activity while decreasing activity of the Rab11-GEF SH3BP5, providing a tool to dissect Rab11 signalling. Overall, our results provide insight into the GTPase specificity of TRAPPII, and how clinical mutations disrupt this regulation.
Ancestral L-amino acid oxidases for deracemization and stereoinversion of amino acids
Authors: Nakano Shogo , Kozuka Kohei , Minamino Yuki , Karasuda Hiroka , Hasebe Fumihito , Ito Sohei
Published: December 2020

L-amino acid oxidases (LAAOs) can be applied to convert racemic amino acids to D-isomers, which are potential precursors of pharmaceuticals. However, this application is hampered by the lack of available stable and structure-determined LAAOs. In this study, we attempt to address this limitation by utilizing two ancestral LAAOs: AncLAAO-N4 and AncLAAO-N5. AncLAAO-N4 has the highest thermal and temporal stabilities among the designed LAAOs that can be used for deracemization and stereoinversion. AncLAAO-N5 can provide X-ray crystal structures, which are helpful to reveal substrate recognition and reaction mechanisms of LAAOs at the molecular level. Next, we attempted to improve activity of AncLAAO-N4 toward L-Val through a semi-rational protein engineering method. Three variants with enhanced activity toward L-Val were obtained. Taken together, we believe that the activity and substrate selectivity of AncLAAOs give them the potential to be key enzymes in various chemoenzymatic reactions.
Topological valley currents via ballistic edge modes in graphene superlattices near the primary Dirac point
Authors: Li Yang , Amado Mario , Hyart Timo , Mazur Grzegorz. P. , Robinson Jason W. A.
Published: December 2020

Graphene on hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) can exhibit a topological phase via mutual crystallographic alignment. Recent measurements of nonlocal resistance (Rnl) near the secondary Dirac point (SDP) in ballistic graphene/hBN superlattices have been interpreted as arising due to the quantum valley Hall state. We report hBN/graphene/hBN superlattices in which Rnl at SDP is negligible, but below 60 K approaches the value of h/2e2 in zero magnetic field at the primary Dirac point with a characteristic decay length of 2 μm. Furthermore, nonlocal transport transmission probabilities based on the Landauer-Büttiker formalism show evidence for spin-degenerate ballistic valley-helical edge modes, which are key for the development of valleytronics.
Continuously variable emission for mechanical deformation induced radiative cooling
Authors: Liu Xiaojie , Tian Yanpei , Chen Fangqi , Ghanekar Alok , Antezza Mauro , Zheng Yi
Published: December 2020

Passive radiative cooling, drawing heat energy of objects to the cold outer space through the atmospheric transparent window, is significant for reducing the energy consumption of buildings. Daytime and nighttime radiative cooling have been extensively investigated in the past. However, radiative cooling which can continuously regulate its cooling temperature, like a valve, according to human need is rarely reported. In this study, we propose a reconfigurable photonic structure, based on the effective medium theory and semi-analytical calculations, for the adaptive radiative cooling by continuous variation of the emission spectra in the atmospheric window. This is realized by the deformation of a one-dimensional polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) grating and nanoparticle-embedded PDMS thin film when subjected to mechanical stress/strain. The proposed structure reaches different stagnation temperatures under certain strains. A dynamic tuning in emissivity under different strains results in a continuously variable “ON”/“OFF” mode in a particular atmospheric window that corresponds to the deformation-induced fluctuation of the operating temperatures of the reconfigurable nanophotonic structure.
Multi-CCD modelling of the point spread function
Authors: Liaudat T. , Bonnin J. , Starck J.-L. , Schmitz M. A. , Guinot A. , Kilbinger M. , Gwyn S. D. J.
Published: December 2020

Context.Galaxy imaging surveys observe a vast number of objects, which are ultimately affected by the instrument’s point spread function (PSF). It is weak lensing missions in particular that are aimed at measuring the shape of galaxies and PSF effects represent an significant source of systematic errors that must be handled appropriately. This requires a high level of accuracy at the modelling stage as well as in the estimation of the PSF at galaxy positions.

Aims.The goal of this work is to estimate a PSF at galaxy positions, which is also referred to as a non-parametric PSF estimation and which starts from a set of noisy star image observations distributed over the focal plane. To accomplish this, we need our model to precisely capture the PSF field variations over the field of view and then to recover the PSF at the chosen positions.

Methods.In this paper, we propose a new method, coined Multi-CCD (MCCD) PSF modelling, which simultaneously creates a PSF field model over the entirety of the instrument’s focal plane. It allows us to capture global as well as local PSF features through the use of two complementary models that enforce different spatial constraints. Most existing non-parametric models build one model per charge-coupled device, which can lead to difficulties in capturing global ellipticity patterns.

Results.We first tested our method on a realistic simulated dataset, comparing it with two state-of-the-art PSF modelling methods (PSFEx and RCA) and finding that our method outperforms both of them. Then we contrasted our approach with PSFEx based on real data from the Canada-France Imaging Survey, which uses the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. We show that our PSF model is less noisy and achieves a ∼22% gain on the pixel’s root mean square error with respect toPSFEx.

Conclusions.We present and share the code for a new PSF modelling algorithm that models the PSF field on all the focal plane that is mature enough to handle real data.
Auto-correlation functions of astrophysical processes, and their relation to Gaussian processes
Authors: Perger M. , Anglada-Escudé G. , Ribas I. , Rosich A. , Herrero E. , Morales J. C.
Published: December 2020

Context. Accounting for the effects of stellar magnetic phenomena is indispensable to fully exploit radial velocities (RVs) obtained using modern exoplanet-hunting spectrometers. Correlated time variations are often mitigated by non-trivial noise models in the framework of Gaussian processes. These models rely on fitting kernel functions that are motivated on mathematical grounds, and whose physical interpretation is often elusive.

Aims. We aim to establish a clear connection between stellar magnetic activity affecting RVs and their corresponding correlations with physical parameters, and compare this connection with kernels used in the literature.

Methods. We use simple activity models to investigate the relationship between the physical processes generating the signals and the covariances typically found in data, and to demonstrate the qualitative behaviour of this relationship. We use the StarSim code to calculate RVs of an M dwarf with different realistic evolving spot configurations. The auto-correlation function (ACF) of a synthetic data set shows a very specific behaviour and is explicitly related to the kernel. Gaussian process regression is performed using the quasi-periodic (QP) and simple harmonic oscillator kernels of the george and celerite codes, respectively. Comparison of the resulting kernels with the exact ACFs allows us to cross-match the kernel hyper-parameters with the introduced physical values, study the overall capabilities of the kernels, and improve their definition.

Results. We find that the QP kernel provides a more straightforward interpretation of the physics. It is able to consistently recover both the introduced rotation period Prot and the spot lifetime. Our study indicates that the performance can be enhanced by fixing the form factor w and adding a physically motivated cosine term with period Prot∕2, where the contribution to the ACF for the different spot configurations differs significantly. The newly proposed quasi-periodic with cosine (QPC) kernel leads to significantly better model likelihoods, can potentially distinguish between different spot configurations, and can thereby improve the sensitivity of RV exoplanet searches.
Numerical reconstruction based on Carleman estimates of a source term in a reaction–diffusion equation
Authors: Boulakia Muriel , de Buhan Maya , Schwindt Erica L.
Published: December 2020

In this article, we consider a reaction–diffusion equation where the reaction term is given by a cubic function and we are interested in the numerical reconstruction of the time-independent part of the source term from measurements of the solution. For this identification problem, we present an iterative algorithm based on Carleman estimates which consists of minimizing at each iteration cost functionals which are strongly convex on bounded sets. Despite the nonlinear nature of the problem, we prove that our method globally converges and the convergence speed evaluated in weighted norm is linear. In the last part of the paper, we illustrate the effectiveness of our method with several numerical reconstructions in dimension one or two.
Combined process of vibratory processing and oxidation with the use of polymeric environments
Authors: Ivanov Vladimir , Popov Sergey , Dontsov Nikolai , Ryzhkin Nikolai , Oleynikova Julia , Denisenko Julia
Published: December 2020

Studies were carried out to combine vibration processing and oxidation in polymer working media, which allowed to combine three technological stages. Characteristic traces of direct and oblique impact of the polymer working medium, along the surface of the metal with oxide film, are determined. Studies of the structure of the nanorelief of the vibrational chemical-mechanical oxide coating and the main parameters of the process are.
The application of information technologies for color reproduction and technical system management in printing art production
Authors: Guryanova Olga , Gnibeda Artem , Filimonova Elena , Pukhova Ekaterina , Kotelnitskaya Lubov
Published: December 2020

The article develops the process of modeling color separation in the reproduction of graphic information in printing technology, shows the management of the technical system at each stage. With the use of information technology, this complex and multi-stage technological process of color conversion is carried out automatically, which does not allow showing the clarity of technological operations.
Modern warming, medieval and ancient optimums as the result of orbital changes in the Earth-Moon-Sun system
Authors: Litvinenko Larisa , Litvinenko Victoria
Published: December 2020

The root cause of modern climate warming is the influence of gravitational forces on the geospheres of our planet, determined by the orbital configuration of the Earth-Moon-Sun system. The annual changes in the position of the total vector of gravitational forces in space visually reflects the movement of the shadow cone of solar eclipses around the globe. The aim and novelty of the study is to identify the relationship between the number of years with four to five polar eclipses (in periods of pessimums, their number reaches 15-17 years, and in periods of optimums – 2-7 years in a century) and glaciation processes, such as the Fernau fluctuation, Late Antique Little Ice Age, or processes of warming and degradation of glaciers in the Roman and Medieval optimums. The research methods were study, generalization of materials, data synthesis, logical and graphical analysis. The anthropogenic causes of modern warming, which will last until the middle of the 22nd century, are secondary. In the second half of the 22nd century, and throughout the entire 24th century, the advance of the alpine glaciers will be associated with the conditions of the climatic pessimum. Solar activity, planetary factors and processes - volcanic activity, current intensity, heat transfer with the World Ocean – can noticeably strengthen or weaken both the manifestation of optimums and pessimums. The results of the study, taking into account other factors, can be used in the retroanalysis of the periods of glaciation in centuries before the Common Era and the prediction of them in the future.
Ion chromatography in the liqueurs and spirits quality control
Authors: Abramova Irina , Medrish Marina , Savel'yeva Vera , Romanova Aleksandra , Gavrilova Darya
Published: December 2020

In the presented work, the ionic composition of liqueurs and spirits from different manufacturers was investigated. It was found that the ionic composition of studied samples is represented mainly by cations of sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium and anions of chlorides, nitrates, phosphates and sulfates, mass concentrations vary within wide limits, which is explained by the rich microelement composition of receptive components, the specifics of alcoholic beverages and the peculiarities of water treatment of various manufacturers. It was revealed that one of the main reasons for the deterioration in the quality of liqueurs and spirits was the increased content of calcium and magnesium. In some samples, on the contrary, the relationship between the cation-anion composition and precipitation was excluded. Thus, the ion chromatography method is an indispensable modern analytical tool in the finished products quality control. Its use allows you to quickly identify and eliminate the causes of precipitation during storage, thereby increasing the efficiency of technochemical quality control of alcoholic beverages.
Main problems of the development of fruit and berry raw materials processing industry in the Russian Federation
Authors: Gribova Natalya , Berketova Lydia , Perov Vitaly , Lipatova Lyudmila , Soltaeva Natalya
Published: December 2020

Food safety is one of the most important and actual problems of the humanity. It is well-known and approved that a country is in safe food situation only in case when it independently produces essential foodstuffs at least 80% of its self-sufficiency level. The current situation is forcing us to achieve the independence from imports. In our research, we make an accent to farther development in the domestic fruit and berry manufacturing processes, which implies general enlarging the product assortment and making it available for customers countrywide. To re-tool the industry with hi-end equipment; to improve raw material storage bases, located in the regions of most intensive consumption; to develop and introduce some innovative and ecologically safe fruit and berry raw materials processing technologies. To pay an extra attention to quality and safety of fruit and berry raw material and ready product. To expand production of canned, frozen, dried products assortment and make it ecologically clean and highly competitive compared to the imported ones. In addition, to make marketing analysis on the attractiveness of a product package for customers and dispose of dependence between processing enterprises and raw material bases.
Reduction of soil layer losses when harvesting sugar beet in the conditions of the central black earth region
Authors: Kuznetsov Pavel , Solovyev Sergey , Gorshenin Vasily , Manaenkov Konstantin
Published: December 2020

When cultivating sugar beets, harvesting is one of the most labor-intensive operations. But in terms of quality and operational and technological performance, the machines used do not meet modern agrotechnical requirements, especially in conditions of high soil moisture (25 - 29%). With an increase in soil moisture, its adhesion to the working surfaces of the digging organs and the heap cleaner increases, reducing their separating ability. We propose to improve the cleaning technology by modernizing the design of the separating stars. This is achieved by using cylindrical brushes (in the amount of three pieces), which are mounted vertically to the horizontal plane of the star's rods. One end of the cylindrical brush is attached to one of the ends of the star bar, and the other end of the brushes is in the hollow bracket. All brushes are located at the same distance from each other along the periphery of the star. The second ends of the brushes, located in the hollow bracket, are fixed to each other and move freely in it. This improved design will allow the brushes to interact with the contaminated surface of the sprocket guard, improving their cleaning ability and eliminating cleaning breaks when working in harsh conditions.
Influence of biostimulants on productivity and quality of grapes
Authors: Arestova Natalia , Ryabchun Irina
Published: December 2020

The summary results of researches on joint influence of the biopreparation containing microbic inoculants (Bacillus pumilus bacteria, strain 3-B) and humic substances (potassium humate) on agrobiological and economic indicators of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. For defining of biological efficiency of the biostimulant on grapes the foliar nutrition of plants of grade of Cabernet Sauvignon was carried out in phases of sap flow and initial blossom. The biological product had significant effect on forming of bunches, and berries, promoting to increase on their weight. Crop yield of options of experience increased, in comparison with check option by 14-19%. There are no differences in the quality of the crop (total sugars and acids) between the variants of the experiment. Foliar nutrition of plants the microbiological product Bacillus pumilus, + potassium humate (3,0 l/hectare) promoted increase in fungicide activity of product from mildew (active ingredient - Mankotseb + Mefenoksam). At top-dressing of plants biological product the growth-regulating activity in experience options with assignment of dose of 2,0 l/hectare and 3,0 l/hectare, in comparison with check option significantly increased. Difference on ripening of whip it is not proved as for of options of experience, in comparison with check option, and for options among themselves.
Improving the efficiency of early table beet cultivation in the North-West region of Russia
Authors: Romanovskiy Nikolay , Sergeyev Aleksandr , Papushin Eduard , Irkov Ivan , Bykov Alexey
Published: December 2020

The appearance of the first marketable root crops with a diameter of more than 50 mm, categorized as elite, in the North-West region of the Russian Federation, may already occur by the end of the third decade of June. The crop price during this period is at least twice the one during mass harvesting. The price depends on the product’s presence on the consumer’s market as well as on weather conditions in the regions of traditional suppliers. In some years, the price can differ by a factor of 3-4. By the time of mass harvesting using traditional technology, the number of elite root crops does not exceed 50%. In order to assess the effectiveness of the proposed early beets cultivation technology, the studies were carried out in the economic conditions of the farm, Leningrad region on the area of 3 hectares. According to the research results, the proposed technology allows to reach 3.3-fold increase of the root crops yield, which are to be sold fresh through the retail network, compared to the traditional one. The gross income using the proposed technology, calculated for sales prices of 2019, amounted to 384.6 thousand rub/ha against 125.2 thousand rub/ha using traditional cultivation techniques.
Optimization problem in mathematical modeling of technological processes of economic activity on rice irrigation systems
Authors: Safronova Tatiana , Vladimirov Stanislav , Prikhodko Igor , Sergeyev Alexander
Published: December 2020

The program for maintaining food security is, first of all, a set of measures consisting of systemic, mathematically based models, taking into account the largest number of factors, signs, indicators and criteria that affect the stability of production. Stability of agricultural production directly depends not only on the degree of use of advanced technologies by the region and the economy (optimal crop rotations together with ecological adaptive technology for processing crop rotation fields, selection achievements, the use of modern mineral and organic fertilizers, the use of advanced herbicides, pesticides and others agrochemicals), technical equipment with modern domestic and/or foreign agricultural machinery, but also on the degree of optimization of using available resources on farms. The article uses a probabilistic model of the process of reducing the cost of planned reclamation measures. Within the framework of the proposed model, the optimization problem of finding the cost of activities that ensure the maximum profit for the farm has been solved. A numerical iterative algorithm for solving it has been performed. The solved problem will allow the development of calculation scenarios and control of the rice irrigation system based on mathematical modeling using modern computing facilities.
Effectiveness of the new Iverlong prolonged-release drug for gastrointestinal nematodoses in sheep
Authors: Engashev Sergey , Engasheva Ekaterina , Kolesnikov Vladimir , Koshkina Natalia , Lopteva Maria , Katkov Konstantin
Published: December 2020

The article presents the results of experiment on testing a prolonged form of the Iverlong drug against gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep. The work was carried out on 30 lambs. The lambs of the first group were subcutaneously injected with the Iverlong preparation at a dose of 1 ml/50 kg of live weight (in 1 ml of 50 mg of Ivermectin plus PLGA prolongator), the lambs of the second group were treated with the same preparation, but at a dose of 0.5 ml/50 kg of live weight. The lambs of the third group served as a control, which were subcutaneously injected with the well-known Ivomek drug in the recommended dose (1 ml/50 kg of live weight). The effectiveness from the prolonged form of Iverlong in 2 doses against nematodes of the gastrointestinal tract was taken into account by means of coprological studies before drug administration and every 15 days for three months. According to the results of coprological studies, it was found that the Iverlong drug in a dose of 1ml/50 kg of the animal’s live weight showed a high prolonged anthelmintic effect and for 60 days protected animals from infection by nematodes of the gastrointestinal tract.
Study of superoxiddismutase activity dynamics in rat skeletal muscle tissue under mechanical influence on hemato-ophthalmic barrier
Authors: Devyatkin Anatoly , Pavlova Olga , Gulenko Olga , Boriskin Pavel , Tulaeva Olga
Published: December 2020

Hemato-ophthalmic barrier is one of the mechanisms of body resistance. One of the complications of mechanical trauma of the eye and violation of the hemato-ophthalmic barrier is the emergence of oxidative stress on the background of the general inflammatory process. Normally, oxidative stress in the skeletal muscle tissue is not a damaging agent, but when intensified by other factors, it promotes pathological changes in the body. Objective: to study the dynamics of superoxiddismutase (SOD) activity in rat skeletal muscle tissue under oxidative stress caused by mechanical action on the hemato-ophthalmic barrier. Materials and methods: The study was carried out on pedigree matured male rats in the amount of 150 pieces. The activity of SOD in skeletal muscle tissue was studied before the experiment, as well as on the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th and 14th day of the experiment using the standard technique of V.S. Gurevich. The obtained digital material was subjected to statistical processing by means of non-parametric statistical analysis. Conclusion: SOD activity in rat skeletal muscle tissue under oxidative stress caused by mechanical action on hemato-ophthalmic barrier is most effectively stabilized in standard therapy of mechanical eye injury with the addition of quercetin in the form of injections.
Retrospective analysis of the spread of cat chlamydia and features of its treatment with a drug based on azithromycin
Authors: Strugovschikov Alexey , Pudovkin Nikolay , Smutnev Petr , Subbotin Ivan
Published: December 2020

The Chlamydiales order bacteria are eukaryotic cells obligate intracellular parasites. The major purpose of the research was to study the prevalence, clinical progression and treatment of Chlamydia in cats with an azithromycin-based drug. A total of 3,388 samples for chlamydia were studied in 2019, of which 243 proved to be positive. Chlamydia was diagnosed using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The Azithronit drug was administered 0.5 ml per animal, 1 time per day, for 7 days. Hematological parameters were determined using the IDEXX Laser Cyte hematological analyzer, while the biochemical parameters were determined using the IDEXX Catalist analyzer (USA). In Moscow, chlamydial infection plays a significant role in the cats inflammatory eye diseases etiology. The overall infection rate of the Moscow cat population totalled 7.2%. In young animals, the incidence was higher (28.3%) than in adults (19.5%). In terms of gender, the incidence of chlamydia in female cats (56%) was higher than in males (44%). The main forms of chlamydia manifestations were those of purulent and serous conjunctivitis - 69.8% and 20.5%, respectively, keratitis - 8.7%. The treatment with azithromycin-based drugs requires only a single daily administration for 7 days to ensure the clinical signs elimination.
Effect of marine feed additions on the digestibility of poultry nutrients
Authors: Tsoy Zoya , Nikulin Yuri , Nikulina Olga
Published: December 2020

Poultry farming is one of the most important branch of animal husbandry. Poultry is very sensitive to a lack of protein, vitamins, microelements and macroelements. The lack of these substances is very bad for the health, development, growth and productivity of poultry. Primorsky Krai is rich in seafood, which is extracted in large quantities. In the process of processing seafood, a large amount of waste remains, which could be used for feed purposes, for feeding farm animals and poultry. The use of seafood waste would solve the problem with a nutrient deficiency in the diets of poultry. The digestibility of feed nutrients is a secondary indicator of their nutritional value. The better the nutrients are digested in the animal's body, the more nutritious the food is. In our research work, we studied the influence of marine hydrobionts on the digestibility of dietary nutrients.
Comprehensive assessment of aquaculture potential of the southern and south-eastern waterbodies in the Rostov region
Authors: Kozurin Efim , Rudoy Dmitry , Kosenko Yuliya , Zhukova Svetlana , Barabashin Timofej , Babajanyan Arkady , Shoniya David
Published: December 2020

The paper presents materials on a comprehensive assessment of reservoirs for commercial aquaculture, exemplified by some waterbodies in the Rostov region. We have examined 24 waterbodies located in the southern and south-eastern Rostov region. The assessment of reservoirs was carried out based on hydrological and hydrochemical indicators, the point score of which was carried out in four sets of issues. Almost all the studied water bodies because of the lack of required water supply have been classified as reservoirs with risky fish farming. Most aquaculture reservoirs recommended for commercial farming are found in the zone of a very arid climate, characterized by annual precipitation ratio of 0.33-0.44. A brief hydrochemical description of each investigated waterbody can be used to form scientifically-based recommendations for the organization of commercial fish farms in Russia.
Investigating the effectiveness of a fish-protection structure of the reclamation water intake
Authors: Dragunova Svetlana , Kuznetsov Evgeny , Khadzhidi Anna , Koltsov Alexander , Sharaby Noureldin
Published: December 2020

The study was conducted at the reclamation water intake facility of Tikhovsky hydroelectric complex. We used data from long-term observations and results of laboratory studies on a 1:20 scale physical model of the Zapan fish protection device. The effectiveness of the model was evaluated using simulators of juvenile fish. Increasing the efficiency of the Zapan fish protection facility is achieved by additional placement in the bottom threshold, which directs the bottom flow along with the young fish to the springboard, where there is an airlift in the form of a bubble curtain that lifts the young along the springboard into the fish-receiving holes of permeable shields. Fish protection design and location in the middle of the water stream do not create a backwater due to low resistance and provide protection for young fish. This increases not only the survival rate of young fish, but also the efficiency of reclamation water intakes. A new design of a fish protection structure for reclamation water intakes of the Zapan type was developed, which provides a fish protection effect of 3 groups of young fish formed by their swimming ability, which allowed determining the size of the elements of the fish protection structure.
Comparative assessment of technologies and machines using nonparametric criteria
Authors: Petukhov Dmitry , Tarkivsky Vitaly , Sviridova Svetlana , Semizorov Sergey
Published: December 2020

Methods for comprehensive assessment of technologies and machines are presented using nonparametric criteria for a single quantitative indicator in the form of a specific number, the value of which allows to choose the most preferable option. Examples of comparative assessments of agricultural technologies and sowing units using generalized assessment criteria are given. The software "Nonparametric selection" is described.
Development of an exhaust gas recirculation system for diesel engines
Authors: Ivanov Igor
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the author's method of developing an original solution to improve the efficiency of the exhaust gas recirculation system for diesel engines based on the TRIZ-FSA system with obtaining a patent for the method and device.
Analysis of the external factors’ effect on optimized profile of a transporter’s oblique end
Authors: Dyachenko Alexey , Savostina Tatiana
Published: December 2020

The present article is oriented on development of engineering and design parameters of a threshing separator designed as hyperboloid of revolution of one nappe for grain crop harvesting. Dependence of optimized cutting profiles on physical and mechanical properties of grain mass and parameters of a threshing separator is defined to ensure uniform supply of grain mass to threshing. The mathematical model of the profile defining process is developed to ensure uniform supply of grain mass to threshing.