bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Surgical Competence in Veterinary Students Using a Flipped Classroom Approach
Authors: Decloedt Annelies , Franco Delphine , Martlé Valentine , Baert Alix , Verwulgen An , Valcke Martin
Published: February 2020

Clinical skills laboratory (CSL) training was recently introduced in the renewed veterinary curriculum at Ghent University, using models and simulators for teaching practical skills. However, time in the CSL is restricted due to the large number of students combined with limited availability of personnel. Therefore, a flipped classroom (FC) model was introduced to maximize learning experiences. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effect of flipped classroom CSL training on students’ self-efficacy and practical surgical skills. Flipped classroom CSL training was implemented for the third-year pre-clinical students ( n = 196) in the 6-year veterinary medicine program. Prior to CSL sessions, students studied online ‘learning paths,’ including text, pictures, videos of the skills, links to background information, a forum, and a compulsory pre-class quiz. A pre- and post-test were administered before and after flipped classroom CSL training. The tests consisted of a self-efficacy scale consisting of 20 items and an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) test of surgical skills performance. Flipped classroom CSL training resulted in significantly higher self-efficacy (score/100, pre-test 55 ± 14 vs. post-test 83 ± 8, p< .001) and surgical skills performance (score/20, pre-test 5 ± 3 vs. post-test 17 ± 3, p< .001). In conclusion, this study demonstrated the feasibility and value of implementing a flipped classroom approach in combination with CSL training.
Hyperactivité et fibromyalgie : la douleur en relais ? À propos d’un cas clinique
Authors: Bichet E. , Bioy A.
Published: February 2020

Cet article met en avant la spécificité de l’expression douloureuse dans le syndrome fibromyalgique en lien avec les questionnements identitaires, en l’illustrant par une situation clinique, celle d’Émilie. La patiente s’est en effet structurée au prix d’une hyperactivité, permettant de pallier un équilibre psychique difficile. À la suite d’un accident de la voie publique, cette hyperactivité est empêchée, précipitant la patiente dans un risque majeur d’effondrement dépressif de décompensation d’une histoire de vie chaotique. C’est alors que la douleur chronique va venir prendre le relais afin de maintenir l’économie psychique du sujet, avec un fonctionnement presque analogue à ce qu’avait permis l’hyperactivité. Ce travail interroge l’apparition de la pathologie qui peut être envisagée comme un moment charnière dans le parcours de vie afin d’élaborer certaines angoisses jusque-là évitées.
Negotiating Ubiquitous Surveillance
Authors: Allen Ira J.
Published: February 2020

Surveillance now is ubiquitous—each of us is decomposed along multiple axes into discrete data points, and then recomposed on screens and in combinatory algorithms that organize our life chances. Such surveillance is directly screened in popular culture, however, quite rarely. It is hard to see ubiquitous surveillance, and the harder something powerful is to see, the more powerful it tends to be. The essays of this Screen Shot offer perspective on various concrete instances of contemporary surveillance, both ubiquitous and granular, and in so doing offer tools for negotiating its suffusive presence in and organization of our lives.
DESTRUCTION OF BUILDING MATERIALS (BRICK, CONCRETE, GRANITE) UNDER HIGH-TEMPERATURE EVAPORATION OF HETEROGENEOUS COMBUSTION PRODUCTS
Authors: Nemova T. N. , Rekunov V. S. , Tsvetkov N. A.
Published: February 2020

The paper presents the research results of the building material destruction due to hightemperature evaporation of heterogeneous solid-fuel combustion products. The aim of this work is to determine basic laws of destruction of non-metallic constructional materials (brick, concrete, granite) under the influence of high-temperature evaporation of heterogeneous solidfuel combustion products and develop a physical model of the process. A gas-dynamic setup is used to conduct the experiments, which allows to vary the stagnation pressure. The destruction rate of the material and the depth of resulting craters are chosen as characterization parameters. The dependence of the destruction rate and the crater depth on the stagnation pressure is compared with the similar data for steel. The stress values are obtained for the surface layer of the material. The proposed physical model of the destruction process of non-metallic constructional materials is based on excess of stresses of the material strength limit arising in its subsurface layer. The obtained results can be used to ensure the safety of special-purpose buildings at extreme thermal effects on the structural elements.
STRUCTURE SETTING ON COMPOSITE-BASED SOILS
Authors: Kozlovskii V. E. , Gorodnova E. V. , Kolmogorova S. S.
Published: February 2020

The paper studies the interaction between the building construction and composite-based soil with a view to determine its elastic properties affecting the structure deformation and internal forces. The soil model is assumed to be elastic, according to the Winkler coefficient calculated from the Kolosov stress decay function. The Galerkin numerical method used in calculations utilizes basic functions corresponding to the type of fixing the discontinuous and continuous structures. Unknown coefficients in linear combinations of basic functions are obtained via linear algebra methods, solving the system of equations. The force functions of the structure are found by derivation of the deflection function. Geological parameters are accepted to be real and matching the construction conditions of a large industrial warehouse of agricultural designation in the Pskov region, Russia. The soil effect on the flexural strength, shearing forces, and bearing reaction is estimated under the discontinuous and continuous structures at the available geological soil parameters. The structure setting on composite-based soils under the operating load is predicted herein.
PENGARUH PELATIHAN DAN KOMUNIKASI TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN PADA KLINIK TUMBUH KEMBANG YAMET PAMULANG
Authors: Susanti Fahmi Susanti
Published: February 2020

ABSTRAK Tujuan yang diinginkan agar menemukan “pengaruh Pelatihan serta Komunikasi terhadap kinerja karyawan” pada klinik Yamet, dengan cara” parsial” atau “simultan.” Dalam penyusunan penelitian memakai methode “deskriptip kuantitatif.” Dengan responden sebanyak 50 serta sampel sebanyak 50 karyawan, cara pengambilan sampel, secara sampel yang jenuh setiap respondenn mendapat kesamaan dalam peluang. Dianalisis dengan metode “regresi linier ganda.” Hasil uji hipostesis pelatihan serta komunikasi, secara parsial nilai thitung masing-masing sebesar 6,528 dan 9,590 dimana semua nilai thitung ttabel.t tabel 1,677 Untuk pengaruh simultan diperoleh Fhitung Ftabel yaitu 13,08 3,20. = 0,05 taraf signifikan. Kesimpulan yang diperoleh dengan parsial maupun simultan pelatihan serta komunikasi mempunyai pengaruh yang sangat berarti dengan “kinerja karyawan”. Dengan persamaan regresi linier Ŷ = -0,026 + 0,001X1 + 0,048X2 artinya pelatihan dan komunikasi memiiki kemampuan untuk mempengaruhi kinerjanya karyawan. Nilai koefisien determinasi 0,982 atau sebesar 98,2% menjelaskan bahwa pelatihan dan komunikasi berkemampuan untuk mempengaruhi kinerjanya karyawan sebesar 98,2 % serta kemampuan variabell yang bebas dimana dalam penelitian ini tidak dilakukan penelitian yaitu 1,8% . ”Kata Kunci”: Pelatihan, Komunikasi, “Kinerja Karyawan”
Pengaruh pelatihan kader posyandu dengan modul terintegrasi terhadap peningkatan pengetahuan, sikap dan keikutsertaan kader posyandu
Authors: Wahyuni Sri , Mose Johanes C. , Sabarudin Udin
Published: February 2020

Latar belakang: Jumlah Posyandu di Indonesia semakin bertambah setiap tahunnya, tetapi tidak sebanding dengan penambahan kader posyandu, hal ini terbukti dari data yang menunjukan bahwa rata-rata jumlah kader aktif adalah 3-4 orang pada setiap Posyandu. Sedikitnya jumlah kader aktif menggambarkan peran serta masyarakat yang masih rendah, maka perlu diupayakan penambahan jumlah kader posyandu melalui pelatihan. Tujuan penelitian : Untuk mengukur pengaruh pelatihan kader posyandu dengan modul terintegrasi terhadap peningkatan pengetahuan, sikap dan keikutsertaan kader posyandu. Metode : Menggunakan desain penelitian Quasy experiment pre-test and post-test with control group. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Manonjaya, menggunakan data primer terhadap ibu yang tidak bekerja dan mempunyai waktu luang sebanyak 30 orang pada setiap kelompok. Data kemudian dianalisis secara univariat, bivariat, dan multivariat. Hasil : Data menunjukan sebelum diberikan pelatihan pada kedua kelompok pengetahuan sebesar 80,4 dan 81,2, serta sikap sebesar 69,7 dan 71,9, kemudian setelah pelatihan pengetahuan menjadi 88,1 dan 87, sikap menjadi 85,5 dan 75. Keikutsertaaan responden berturut-turut pada post-test 1 dan post-test 2 antara kelompok intervensi dan kelompok kontrol sebanyak 25 orang dan 22 orang. Simpulan : Pelatihan kader Posyandu dengan modul terintegrasi terbukti lebih meningkatkan pengetahuan dan sikap responden, tetapi tidak lebih baik dalam meningkatkan keikutsertaan kader.
Index Option Greek Analysis with Heikin-Ashi Transformed Data and Its prediction with Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Sharma Nishchal
Published: February 2020

This paper analyses the Index Option Greek with respect to a transformed data set of Index that has been Heikin Ashi Transformed. It has been noted that Heikin Ashi Transformation can provide better prediction than normal data and the noise effect can also be used to filter out if volume weights are also considered. This paper tries to predict option greeks for index option with the help of a Neural Network setup. Since option greeks play a very important role in understanding the correct pricing of index option, the paper provides some useful insights in such models.
Fire-Related Disaster Risk Reduction Approach for Crowd Management : A Case Study of Prayagraj Ardh Kumbh 2019
Authors: Kumar Pramod
Published: February 2020

The first step to make any disaster risk reduction plan for any crowded area, (such as any religious gathering or functions), is to identify and mitigate the condition that might have increased the cause of probable disaster. Prayagraj is one of the mega cities of Uttar Pradesh, having 8 tehsils having a population of 1,117,094. There are less comprehensive studies or statistical data that is available about the fire disaster emergency plans for the dense areas of Uttar Pradesh. Using the case study of Ardh Kumbh 2019, Prayagraj, this paper provides an approach to understand the system faults and the importance of development of a disaster risk reduction plan for metropolitan cities of Uttar Pradesh. It recommends the co-ordination between various stakeholders, infrastructure facilities and Rescue agencies as well as government institutions.
Generalised Limits for Vector Valued Sequences
Authors: Singh Ajaya Kumar
Published: February 2020

The object of the present paper is to introduce the extension of the concept of Banach limits for vector valued sequences and we prove the existence of Banach limits for vector valued sequences. Also introduced Banach spaces X,X^*,X^(**) 1-complemented in their bi duals admit vector valued Banach limits. Lastly we propose Lorentz’s vector valued intrinsic characterisation of almost convergence.
Polemic notes to the article by R. M. Kachalov “Risk phenomenon as an artificial economic science object”
Authors: Kolesnikov E. Yu.
Published: February 2020

In order to increase the efficiency of socio-economic systems managing, R. Kachalov proposed introducing the fictitious concept of the “risk phenomenon”. This article shows that, this proposal, firstly, contradicts the scientific principle of Occam’s razor, and secondly, it is a methodological error. In addition, the interpretation by R. Kachalov of the relationship between the concepts of “uncertainty” and “economic risk” is debatable.
Offer of methods for minimizing key investment risks of “R-Pharm” JSC
Authors: Kabanova N. A. , Alekseeva I. K.
Published: February 2020

The article is devoted to the assessment of potential investment risks of the pharmaceutical company “R-Pharm” JSC with the aim of identifying the highest priority risks and developing methods for minimizing them. The relevance of the study is determined by the fact that the pharmaceutical business is characterized by a high degree of social orientation and annually invests $ 140 billion in the development of production and research, which determines the need for a risk-based approach to ensure the return on investment. The subject of this article is the investment risks of pharmaceutical companies, and the subject of research is the domestic pharmaceutical company “R-Pharm”. In order to assess the potential investment risks of “R-Pharm” JSC, the authors used elements of simulation modeling and system analysis. The proposed methods to minimize key investment risks are aimed at improving the efficiency of investment activities and is recommended as an element of the strategic planning of the company.
Female Suicide Bombers in Boko Haram Insurgency: Victims or Perpetrators?
Authors: Archibong James E.
Published: February 2020

The increasing involvement of women in the advancement of insurgency in Nigeria has become a thing of great worry. The question often asked is as to whether their involvement is induced or free-willed. The concept of consent is on different layers and one would imagine the extent of consent given before they become members of the sect or culprits. The different ways women have been used to perpetrate the activities of Boko Haram ranges from threats to abuse, Indoctrination to hypnotism and many others. Due to the subtle and unsuspecting nature of women, they form a good strategy for members of the sect. However, their involvement is not evidence against them as they face situations that almost deny them the opportunity to choose whether or not to subscribe to the forceful approach used by Boko Haram insurgents!.
دراسة تأثير بعض العوامل على عدد ساعات تجهيز الكهرباء اليومي في مدينة بغداد باستعمال تحليل المسار
Authors: هدّو عادل أحمد , صالح عويد صالح رزاق
Published: February 2020

دُرِست العوامل المؤثرة في عدد ساعات تجهيز الكهرباء في مدينة بغداد، وتكونت عينة الدراسة من (365) مشاهدة يومية لعام 2018، وتمثلت بستة متغيرات استعملت في الدراسة. كان الهدف الرئيس هو دراسة العلاقة بين هذه المتغيرات، وتقدير تأثيرات المتغيرات التنبؤية في المتغير التابع (عدد ساعات تجهيز الكهرباء في مدينة بغداد). ولتحقيق ذلك استعملت نمذجة المعادلات الهيكلية/ تحليل المسار وبرنامج AMOS، وتحليل انموذج الانحدار الخطي المتعدد باستعمال برنامج SPSS، واتضح من خلال الأخير أن هناك علاقات ذات دلالة إحصائية بين متغيرات الدراسة، وإن هناك تأثير معنوي للمتغيرات التنبؤية مجتمعة في المتغير التابع (). وكذلك إستعمل برنامج.EViews  واتضح من خلال استعمال نمذجة المعادلات الهيكلية ان أكثر المتغيرات التنبؤية تفسيراً لتباين المتغير التابع هو المتغير () إذ فسر 35.64%  من التباين الكلي، بينما المتغيرات الأخرى (،، ، ) فـسرت  (5.47 % ، 0.88 % ، 0.59 % ، 0.14 %) على الترتيب من التباين.

       ووفقاً لمؤشرات تقييم الملائمة تبين أن الأنموذج الهيكلي المقترح لم يحقق ملائمة مقبولة لبيانات الدراسة، وعزى بعض المختصين ذلك إلى جودة البيانات الإحصائية الرسمية التي حصل عليها الباحث إذ إنها لاتمثل انعكاساً للواقع.
Identification of Novel Small Molecules That Bind to the Loop2 Region of Sclerostin – an in silico Computational Analysis
Authors: MUTHUSAMY K. , MOHAN S. , NAGAMANI S. , KESAVAN C.
Published: February 2020

The goal of this study was to identify small molecular weight compounds that bind to sclerostin using in silico methods because of the established importance of sclerostin-based therapies for the treatment of disease characterized by low bone mass. The zinc database (Zdb) revealed that nine potential molecules bind to the loop2 region (functional site) of sclerostin with ADME/T properties that are within an acceptable range defined for human use. Compounds 30160056 and 56871042 showed the highest docking score. Density functional theory (by HOMO, LUMO and MESP analysis) and MM/GBSA analysis showed that four compounds 30160056, 56871042, 72112226 and 43920281 exhibit high stability among the nine small molecules identified. Induced Docking Fit and Pymol software analyses revealed that the identified compounds differ in the interaction with amino acids in the loop2 region of sclerostin. Six compound exhibited interaction with Ile95 and 2 compounds with Asn93, an amino acid in the loop2 region known to be involved in sclerostin’s inhibitory effect, suggesting that the identified compounds have the potential to bind and neutralize sclerostin function. Furthermore, compound 43920281 showed a low risk of toxicity and drug-like characteristic features compared to all nine identified compounds. In conclusion, in silico analysis identified a novel compound 43920281 as a potent anti-sclerostin therapeutic for drug development for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Effects of Necrostatin-1, an Inhibitor of Necroptosis, and its Inactive Analogue Nec-1i on Basal Cardiovascular Function
Authors: SZOBI A. , RAJTIK T. , ADAMEOVA A.
Published: February 2020

Inhibition of receptor-interacting serine/threonine-protein kinase 1 (RIP1) by necrostatin-1 (Nec-1) alleviates cardiac injury due to prevention of necroptotic cell death. Its inactive analogue necrostatin-1i (Nec-1i), lacking RIP1 activity, serves as a suitable control. It is unknown if these agents influence the heart function in the absence of damaging stimuli. For this purpose, we measured intraarterial blood pressure (systolic – sBP and diastolic – dBP) and ECG parameters after a bolus administration of Nec-1 and Nec-1i in rats during 30 min. Nec-1, unlike Nec-1i, increased sBP and dBP, as well as heart rate reaching the peak at 20 min. The P wave duration tended to be decreased and the duration of the PR interval was shortened by Nec-1 indicating faster conduction of the impulses through atria to the ventricles. The drugs did not influence the QTc interval duration and no episode of ventricular arrhythmia was observed. In summary, Nec-1 temporarily modulates blood pressure and electrical function of the healthy heart. These effects of Nec-1 are likely due to its off-target action or RIP1 has an important role in the regulation of cardiovascular function independently of its action on the necroptotic pathway.
Desarrollo del estado del arte en investigación: una herramienta basada en inteligencia artificial
Authors: Bucheli Guerrero Víctor Andres
Published: February 2020

El trabajo describe el desarrollo de un prototipo de software basada en inteligencia artificial para la construcción semi-asistida del estado del arte en un proceso de investigación (SASR). La herramienta permiten obtener información con valor agregado y mapas, visualizaciones, para la escritura de un estado del arte de un tema de investigación. Los resultados son verificados mediante una encuesta a 50 estudiantes de maestría y doctorado, quienes reportan la utilidad de la herramienta. En el documento se presenta la arquitectura y la implementación SASR. Finalmente se presenta un estudio comparativo con las herramientas existentes, se discuten las potencialidades de la herramienta y el impacto positivo que puede tener SASR en la investigación, principalmente en el contexto colombiano. Así también se discuten las técnicas de inteligencia artificial implementadas, la escalabilidad de la herramienta y la facilidad de integrar nuevos análisis y visualizaciones.
Aspectos nutricionales de peces ornamentales de agua dulce
Authors: Velasco Garzón Juan Sebastian , Gutiérrez Espinosa Mariana Catalina
Published: February 2020

La comercialización de peces ornamentales se ha convertido en una actividad económica de gran importancia para la acuicultura a nivel mundial, destacando la participación de Singapur, España, Japón, Malasia e Indonesia en la lista de principales productores a nivel mundial. Este documento busca recopilar y destacar la importancia de algunos estudios que describen los requerimientos nutricionales en especies ornamentales con potencial productivo y sobresale una problemática local, en donde se toman dietas formuladas con requerimientos nutricionales de especies de consumo humano, para alimentación de especies con potencial ornamental. La extrapolación de los requerimientos nutricionales de especies de consumo para la formulación de dietas en especies con potencial ornamental puede comprometer el crecimiento del animal o afectar directamente la calidad del agua por excesos de nutrientes.
Mechanisms of the Pharmacological Modulation of Obsessive-Compulsive and Cognitive Disorders in Cats Recognized by the Method of Normalizing FFT-Convertible Functions of Electrograms of the Frontal Cortex and Hippocampus
Authors: Karkischenko N. N. , Karkischenko V. N. , Fokin Yu. V.
Published: February 2020

The pharmacological modulation and analysis of psychopathological processes in animals is a research method providing a possibility to study similar processes in humans. Methods and approaches based on the principles of the pharmacological modulation of systemic behaviour and normalization of FFT-transformed functions of the brain electrograms allow identiﬁcation of the quantitative parameters of intracentral relations, cognitive functions and fundamental mechanisms for evaluating the effects of neuropsychoactive drugs in the whole brainin vivo.

The work was carried out on cats with stereotactically implanted electrodes in the brain. Subtherapeutic doses of ketamine, amphetamine and nakom were used to model obsessive-compulsive disorders and cognitive changes. The pharmacological modulation of the animals’ behaviour was evaluated by the effect on the frontal brain and hippocampus. The activation of γ-rhythms (from 35 to 60 Hz) was considered as an improvement in cognitive functions. Ketamine exhibited a more pronounced depressing effect on the proreal gyrus, with its activating effects being close to amphetamine across the frequency ranges of 11–15 and 32–35 Hz. Ketamine had a pronounced activating effect on the gyrus suprasilvium anterior and the hippocampus. Ketamin and nakom demonstrated similar effects in the area of the proreal gyrus, most clearly manifested at frequencies of about 9–15 and 35–36 Hz. The action of nakom was characterized by the episodes of activation in a higher frequency range of 40–55 Hz as well. In the area of the gyrus suprasilvium anterior, the effects of nakom were similar to those of ketamine; however, these substances exhibited different effects in the range of 9–11 Hz. Compared to amphetamine, nakom showed no depressing episodes over the high-frequency range of 55–65 Hz. In the hippocampus, nakom demonstrated an activating effect exceeding that of ketamine by 100–150%. It was shown that neuroimaging of the normalized functions of electrograms during the pharmacological modulation of obsessive-compulsive and cognitive disorders reﬂects the most striking transformations in high-frequency brain rhythms, primarily related to the γ-range.

Comparison of the results of pharmacomodulation with the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic parameters of drugs when modelling psychopathologies in animals helps researchers in their search for approaches to modifying animal behaviour and extrapolating them to humans.
Improving the Technology of Extraction, Preparation and Conservation of Musk Deer Extract for the Standardization and Production of Pharmaceutical Substances
Authors: Lyublinskiy S. L. , Lyublinskaya I. N. , Galochkina V. P. , Koloskova E. M. , Karkischenko V. N. , Nesterov M. S. , Berzin I. A. , Ageldinov R. A. , Churyukin R. S.
Published: February 2020

The development of new methods for the conservation of biological raw materials, which can be used in the production of active pharmaceutical substances, is increasingly attracting research attention. This article presents the results of comparative studies into the effectiveness of biological conservation using cryopreservation, electron beam treatment and the lactoperoxidase system. Electron beam technologies demonstrated a pronounced antimicrobial effect in the treatment of musk deer extract and other biologically active substances. A recommendation was formulated to treat musk extract with electron-beam radiation at an absorbed dose of 6 kGy (9.5 MeV) following cryopreservation at –25°C over the period of 1 year. The data obtained using the method of accelerated testing allows an extended shelf life of up to 48 months to be predicted.

For the ﬁrst time, the main indicators of the quality and safety of musk deer extract as a potential raw material for the production of active pharmaceutical substances and medicinal animal raw materials were determined. A standard for the quality of musk deer extract as a raw material, as well as an experimental-industrial regulation for its preparation and preservation, were developed.
Effects of in ovo Inoculation of Multi-Strain Lactobacilli on Cytokine Gene Expression and Antibody-Mediated Immune Responses in Chickens
Authors: Alizadeh Mohammadali , Shojadoost Bahram , Astill Jake , Taha-Abdelaziz Khaled , Karimi Seyed Hossein , Bavananthasivam Jegarubee , Kulkarni Raveendra R. , Sharif Shayan
Published: February 2020

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of various doses of a multi-strain lactobacilli mixture (Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus crispatus, and Lactobacillus johnsonii) on the innate and adaptive immune responses in broiler chickens. At embryonic day eighteen, 200 eggs were injected with PBS, or three different doses of a multi-strain lactobacilli mixture (1 × 105, 1 × 106, and 1 × 107 CFU/egg, P1, P2, and P3 respectively) along with a group of negative control. On days 5 and 10 post-hatch, cecal tonsil, bursa of fabricius, and spleen were collected for gene expression and cellular analysis. On days 14 and 21 post-hatch, birds were immunized intramuscularly with both sheep red blood cells (SRBC) and keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH). Serum samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 after primary immunization. The results demonstrated that lactobacilli inoculation increased the splenic expression of cytokines, including interferon (IFN)-α, IFN-β, IFN-γ, interleukin (IL)-8, and IL-12 on day 5 post-hatch compared to the control group (PBS). However, in cecal tonsils, lactobacilli treatment downregulated the expression of IL-6 on day 5 post-hatch and IL-2 and IL-8 on day 10 post-hatch. No significant differences were observed in the expression of cytokine genes in the bursa except for IL-13 which was upregulated in lactobacilli-treated groups P2 and P3 on days 5 and 10 post-hatch. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the percentage of KUL01, CD4+ and CD8+ splenocytes was not affected by treatments. In addition, no significant differences were observed for antibody titers against SRBC. However, lactobacilli treatment (P1, P2, and P3) was found to increase IgM titers on day 21 post-primary immunization compared to controls. Furthermore, in ovo injection of the highest dose of probiotics (1 × 107, P3) increased serum IgG titers against KLH on day 7 post-primary immunization. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that that in ovo administration of lactobacilli can improve antibody-mediated immune responses and differentially modulate cytokine expression in mucosal and systemic lymphoid tissues of chickens.
Influence of Increased Light Intensity on the Acceptance of a Solid Lying Area and a Slatted Elimination Area in Fattening Pigs
Authors: Opderbeck Svenja , Keßler Barbara , Gordillo William , Schrade Hansjörg , Piepho Hans-Peter , Gallmann Eva
Published: February 2020

Animal welfare labels have been introduced to improve housing conditions in conventional pig systems. Animal welfare should be increased by, e.g. offering a well-accepted and comfortable solid lying area. This study investigates the effect of bright light from an LED spotlight in the slatted area on lying and elimination behavior of fattening pigs. It was tested for two pen designs different in feeder and arrangement of the slatted area with 18 pigs per pen. The study took place in two different compartments (spatial repetition) with two pens of each pen design. The light intensity in the slatted area was increased by two spotlights within one pen of each design as case-control approach. A total of 648 fattening pigs were tested over four and five fattening periods respectively. The lying behavior was assessed by video scan sampling at three different weekdays at three times (morning, noon, evening) on each observation day. On average, the lying area was used by 60–63% of the pigs in the control pens and 67–69% in the spotlight pens. Additionally, a tendential effect of the deviation of the room temperature from the set temperature existed. The fouling of the animals and pen was not affected by the light intensity.
Morphological Features and Biomass Partitioning of Lucerne Plants (Medicago sativa L.) Subjected to Water Stress
Authors: Luo Yong-Zhong , Li Guang , Yan Guijun , Liu Hui , Turner Neil C.
Published: February 2020

Drought is one of the major abiotic stresses affecting the morphological, physiological, and metabolic processes of plants, and hence their growth and production on a global scale. Lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most popular pasture species in semi-arid regions and plays a critical role in sustaining agricultural systems in many areas of the world. In order to evaluate the effect of water deficits on the growth and biomass distribution in different tissues of lucerne, plant height, leaf dry weight, leaf number and area, root dry weight, taproot length and lateral root number, and stem dry weight were measured at four stages from the seedling to flowering stages under three water regimes: (i) adequate water supply (minimum soil water content 85% pot capacity (PC)), (ii) moderate water stress (65% PC), and (iii) severe water stress (45% PC), imposed under a rainout shelter. With limited water supply, plant height, leaf number, leaf area and dry weight, taproot length, and total biomass were reduced, while lateral root numbers increased. The number of smaller leaves and root dry weight increased under moderate water stress, whereas severe water stress reduced them. Leaf, stem, and total dry weight were all reduced by the water deficits, but leaf dry weight was reduced the most and root dry weight the least, so there was a redistribution of biomass towards the roots, increasing the root–shoot ratio. These results help us to understand the response of lucerce to water stress and assist in developing a foundation for the sustainable use of lucerne in semi-arid agricultural systems.
Effect of Greenhouse CO2 Supplementation on Yield and Mineral Element Concentrations of Leafy Greens Grown Using Nutrient Film Technique
Authors: Singh Hardeep , Poudel Megha R. , Dunn Bruce L. , Fontanier Charles , Kakani Gopal
Published: February 2020

Carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration is reported to be the most important climate variable in greenhouse production with its effect on plant photosynthetic assimilation. A greenhouse study was conducted using a nutrient film technique (NFT) system to quantify the effect of two different levels of CO2 (supplemented at an average of 800 ppm and ambient at ~410 ppm) on growth and nutritional quality of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) ‘Cardinal’, lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) ‘Auvona’, and Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L.) ‘Magenta Sunset’ cultivars. Two identical greenhouses were used: one with CO2 supplementation and the other serving as the control with an ambient CO2 concentration. The results indicate that supplemented CO2 could significantly increase the height and width of hydroponically grown leafy greens. Supplemented CO2 increased the fresh weight of basil ‘Cardinal’, lettuce ‘Auvona’, and Swiss chard ‘Magenta Sunset’ by 29%, 24.7%, and 39.5%, respectively, and dry weight by 34.4%, 21.4%, and 40.1%, respectively. These results correspond to a significant reduction in Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) and atLEAF values, which represent a decrease in leaf chlorophyll content under supplemented CO2 conditions. Chlorophyll, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and magnesium (Mg) concentrations were generally lower in plants grown in supplemented CO2 conditions, but the results were not consistent for each species. Supplemented CO2 reduced tissue N concentration for basil ‘Cardinal’ and lettuce ‘Auvona’ but not Swiss chard, while Mg concentration was reduced in supplemented CO2 for Swiss chard ‘Magenta Sunset’ only. In contrast, Fe concentration was increased under supplemented CO2 for basil ‘Cardinal’ only. These findings suggest CO2 supplementation could increase yield of leafy greens grown with hydroponics and have varying impact on different mineral concentrations among species.
Extraction of Anthocyanins and Total Phenolic Compounds from Açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) Using an Experimental Design Methodology. Part 2: Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction
Authors: Aliaño-González María José , Espada-Bellido Estrella , Ferreiro-González Marta , Carrera Ceferino , Palma Miguel , Ayuso Jesús , Álvarez José Ángel , F. Barbero Gerardo
Published: February 2020

Two optimized methods for ultrasound-assisted extraction were evaluated for the extraction of two types of acai bioactive compounds: Total anthocyanins (TAs) and total phenolic compounds (TPCs). For the extraction optimization, a Box Behnken factorial design of different variables in the following intervals was used: Methanol-water (25%–75%) for solvent composition, temperatures between 10 and 70 °C, amplitude in the range between 30% and 70% of the maximum amplitude −200 W), extraction solvent pH (2–7), the ratio for sample-solvent (0.5 g:10 mL–0.5 g:20 mL), and cycle between 0.2 and 0.7 s. The extraction kinetics were studied using different periods between 5 and 30 min. TA and TPC were analyzed by UHPLC and the Folin–Ciocalteu method, respectively. Optimized conditions for TA were: 51% MeOH in water, 31 °C temperature, pH 6.38, cycle 0.7 s, 65% amplitude, and 0.5 g:10 mL of sample-solvent ratio. Optimized conditions for the TPC were: 49% MeOH in water, 41 °C temperature, pH 6.98, cycle 0.2 s, 30% amplitude, and 0.5 g:10 mL of sample-solvent ratio. Both methods presented a relative standard deviation below 5% in the precision study. The suitability of the methods was tested in real samples. It was confirmed that these methods are feasible for the extraction of the studied bioactive compounds from different açai matrices.
The Deep Circumflex Iliac Artery Flap for Mandibular Reconstruction and Donor Site Reconstruction with a Patient-Specific Implant: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Hyo Joon , Moon Seong Yong
Published: February 2020

Jaw defects may occur due to various causes such as tumors, trauma, and diseases caused by infection such as osteomyelitis. Reconstruction of jaw defects has been improved by the free flaps and refined microvascular techniques. The deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA) flap offers a large amount of bone for complex reconstructions of the mandible. However, several complications and adverse effects can occur, such as abnormal hip contour, hernia, severe bleeding tendency, gait disturbance, and hypoesthesia. To reduce these complications, the monocortical DCIA flap can be used, or iliac crest bone defects can be restored with titanium mesh. However, these methods have limitations when used to reduce hip contour reproduction and gait disturbance. In this study, we report a case of iliac bone reconstruction using a 3D-printed patient-specific implant to reduce donor site morbidity in the reconstruction of the DCIA flap in a patient with oral squamous carcinoma.
Mechanical Strength Evaluation of Elastic Materials by Multiphysical Nondestructive Methods: A Review
Authors: Huan Huiting , Liu Lixian , Mandelis Andreas , Peng Cuiling , Chen Xiaolong , Zhan Jinsong
Published: February 2020

The main purpose of industrial nondestructive testing (NDT) is to diagnose the stability, reliability and failure probability of materials, components and structures. Industrial component mechanical strength is one of the most important properties NDT is used to characterize. Subtle but perceptible changes in stress-strain behavior can be reliable indicators of defect formation. A detailed review on the state-of-the-art NDT methods using optical-radiation, photoacoustic, and photothermal techniques for mechanical strength evaluation and defect pre-diagnosis is presented in this article. Mechanical strength is analyzed in terms of the deformation/strain field, the stress-strain relation, and the residual stress in an elastic material subjected to tensile or compressive loading, or impact. By introducing typical NDT experiments, the history and features of each methodology are revisited and typical applications are discussed. This review also aims to be used as a reference toward further research and development of NDT technologies characterizing mechanical strength of materials and components.
The Effect of Speed Humps on Instantaneous Traffic Emissions
Authors: Pérez-Sansalvador Julio César , Lakouari Noureddine , Garcia-Diaz Jesus , Hernández Saúl E. Pomares
Published: February 2020

Bad air quality due to free pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), nitrogen oxides (NO x ) and volatile organic components (VOC) increases the risk of long- term health diseases. The impact of traffic-calming measures on air quality has been studied using specialized equipment at control sites or mounted on cars to monitor pollutants levels. However, this approach suffers from a large number of variables on the experiments such as vehicles types, number of monitored vehicles, driver’s behavior, traffic density, time of the day, elapsed monitoring time, road conditions and weather. In this work, we use a cellular automata and an instantaneous traffic emissions model to capture the effect of speed humps on traffic flow and on the generation of CO 2 , NO x , VOC and PM pollutants. This approach allows us to study and characterize the effect of many speed humps on a single lane. We found that speed humps significantly promote the generation of pollutants when the number of vehicles on a lane is low. Our results may provide insight into urban planning strategies to reduce the generation of traffic emissions and lower the risk of long-term health diseases.
Geometric Effects Analysis and Verification of V-Shaped Support Interference on Blended Wing Body Aircraft
Authors: Xu Xin , Li Qiang , Liu Dawei , Cheng Keming , Chen Dehua
Published: February 2020

A special V-shaped support for blended wing body aircraft was designed and applied in high-speed wind tunnel tests. In order to reduce the support interference and explore the design criteria of the V-shaped support, interference characteristics and geometric parameter effects of V-shaped support on blended wing body aircraft were numerically studied. According to the numerical results, the corresponding dummy V-shaped supports were designed and manufactured, and verification tests was conducted in a 2.4 m × 2.4 m transonic wind tunnel. The test results were in good agreement with the numerical simulation. Results indicated that pitching moment of blended wing body aircraft is quite sensitive to the V-shaped support geometric parameters, and the influence of the inflection angle is the most serious. To minimize the pitching moment interference, the straight-section diameter and inflection angle should be increased while the straight-section length should be shortened. The results could be used to design special V-shaped support for blended wing body aircraft in wind tunnel tests, reduce support interference, and improve the accuracy of test results.
Environmental Drivers for Cambial Reactivation of Qilian Junipers (Juniperus przewalskii) in a Semi-Arid Region of Northwestern China
Authors: Zeng Qiao , Rossi Sergio , Yang Bao , Qin Chun , Li Gang
Published: February 2020

Although cambial reactivation is considered to be strongly dependent on temperature, the importance of water availability at the onset of xylogenesis in semi-arid regions still lacks sufficient evidences. In order to explore how environmental factors influence the initiation of cambial activity and wood formation, we monitored weekly cambial phenology in Qilian juniper (Juniperus przewalskii) from a semi-arid high-elevation region of northwestern China. We collected microcores from 12 trees at two elevations during the growing seasons in 2013 and 2014, testing the hypothesis that rainfall limits cambial reactivation in spring. Cambium was reactivated from late April to mid-May, and completed cell division from late July to early August, lasting 70–100 days. Both sites suffered from severe drought from January to April 2013, receiving < 1 mm of rain in April. In contrast, rainfall from January to April 2014 was 5–6 times higher than that in 2013. However, cambial reactivation in 2014 was delayed by 10 days. In spring, soil moisture gradually increased with warming temperatures, reaching 0.15 m3/m3 before the onset of xylogenesis, which may have ensured water availability for tree growth during the rainless period. We were unable to confirm the hypothesis that rainfall is a limiting factor of cambial reactivation. Our results highlight the importance of soil moisture in semi-arid regions, which better describe the environmental conditions that are favorable for cambial reactivation in water-limited ecosystems.
Electrochemical Behavior of Rejected Dental Implants in Peri-Implantitis
Authors: Bunoiu Ioana , Andrei Mihai , Scheau Cristian , Manole Claudiu Constantin , Stoian Andrei Bogdan , Ibric Cioranu Vladimir Sorin , Didilescu Andreea Cristiana
Published: February 2020

This paper aims to investigate the electrochemical stability of four dental implants based on titanium alloys, rejected and recovered from patients diagnosed with peri-implantitis. The recovered implants were investigated over one week through open circuit potential (OCP) measurements, Tafel analysis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS). Patients’ X-rays and clinical data were collected. The OCP measurements showed numerous variations of the potential over time, with increases and decreases, which indicated passivation–depassivation cycles. The main corrosion parameters were obtained through Tafel analysis. Corrosion rates and polarization curves suggested a greater instability trend over time for one implant. Bode Modulus and Nyquist diagrams were obtained after EIS was performed and electrical circuits were proposed and fitted for the dental implants in order to follow the materials resistance over time. Although two implants had the highest initial recorded resistances, they showed the most decrease over time. SEM micrographs showed pitting corrosion, while the presence of the Cl element in the EDS spectra indicated the presence of chlorides associated with these processes. The analyses performed on the dental implants denoted instability, with a different behavior for each one.
Reactively Sputtered Sb-GaN Films and its Hetero-Junction Diode: The Exploration of the n-to-p Transition
Authors: Thao Cao Phuong , Tuan Thi Tran Anh , Kuo Dong-Hau , Ke Wen-Cheng , Na Thach Thi Via Sa
Published: February 2020

Sb anion-substituted gallium nitride films were fabricated by radio frequency reactive sputtering with single Sb-containing cermet targets with different Sb contents under Ar/N2 atmosphere. n-type GaN films with electron concentration of (1.40 ± 0.1) × 1017 cm−3 inverted to p-type Sb-GaN with hole concentration of (5.50 ± 0.3) × 1017 cm−3. The bandgap energy of Sb anion-added Sb-GaN films decreased from 3.20 to 2.72 eV with increasing Sb concentration. The formation of p-type Sb-GaN is attributed to the formation of Ga vacancy at higher Sb concentration. The coexistence of Sb at the Ga cation site and N anion site is an interesting and important result, as GaNSb had been well developed for highly mismatched alloys. The hetero-junction with p-type Sb-GaN/n-Si diodes was all formed by radio frequency (RF) reactive sputtering technology. The electrical characteristics of Sb-GaN diode devices were investigated from −20 to 20 V at room temperature (RT).
Thermionic Vacuum Arc—A Versatile Technology for Thin Film Deposition and Its Applications
Authors: Vladoiu Rodica , Tichý Milan , Mandes Aurelia , Dinca Virginia , Kudrna Pavel
Published: February 2020

This review summarizes the more-than-25-years of development of the so-called thermionic vacuum arc (TVA). TVA is an anodic arc discharge in vapors of the material to be deposited; the energy for its melting is delivered by means of a focused electron beam. The resulting material ions fall at the substrate where they form a well-adhesive layer; the ion energy is controllable. The deposited layers are, as a rule, free from droplets typical for cathodic arc deposition systems and the thermal stress of the substrates being coated is low. TVA is especially suitable for processing refractory metals, e.g., carbon or tungsten, however, in the course of time, various useful applications of this system originated. They include layers for fusion application, hard coatings, low-friction coatings, biomedical-applicable films, materials for optoelectronics, and for solid-state batteries. Apart from the diagnostic of the film properties, also the diagnostic of the TVA discharge itself as well as of the by TVA generated plasma was performed. The research and application of the TVA proceeds in broad international collaboration. At present, the TVA technology has found its firm place among the different procedures for thin film deposition.
Mathematical Analysis of Entropy Generation in the Flow of Viscoelastic Nanofluid through an Annular Region of Two Asymmetric Annuli Having Flexible Surfaces
Authors: Riaz Arshad , Gul Ayesha , Khan Ilyas , Ramesh Katta , Ullah Khan Sami , Baleanu Dumitru , Sooppy Nisar Kottakkaran
Published: February 2020

In this manuscript, the authors developed the mathematical model for entropy generation analysis during the peristaltic propulsion of Jeffrey nanofluids passing in a midst of two eccentric asymmetric annuli. The model was structured by implementation of lubrication perspective and dimensionless strategy. Entropy generation caused by the irreversible influence of heat and mass transfer of nanofluid and viscous dissipation of the considered liquid was taken into consideration. The governing equations were handled by a powerful analytical technique (HPM). The comparison of total entropy with the partial entropy was also invoked by discussing Bejan number results. The influence of various associated variables on the profiles of velocity, temperature, nanoparticle concentration, entropy generation and Bejan number was formulated by portraying the figures. Mainly from graphical observations, we analyzed that, in the matter of thermophoresis parameter and Brownian motion parameter, entropy generation is thoroughly enhanced while inverse readings were reported for the temperature difference parameter and the ratio of temperature to concentration parameters.