bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Host Landing And Diel Activity of Potent Vectors of Bluetongue Disease, Culicoides Oxystoma and Culicoides Peregrinus
Authors: Mazumdar Shuddhasattwa Maitra , Mandal Biswajit , Kar Surajit , Mazumdar Abhijit
Published: November 2021

Background The spread of bluetongue virus depends on the vectorial ability of Culicoides affecting the susceptible host. Animal farms in West Bengal have reported prevalence of potent vectors of BTV (C. oxystoma, C. peregrinus and C. fulvus). Besides, high seroprevalence of BTV was also reported from this cattle dense region. Henceforth host-seeking activity of two important potent vectors, C. oxystoma and C. peregrinus on cattle were studied in two farm sites of West Bengal, India.Methods The study was done in 2018-19 comprising of total 297 hours of collection over 27 nights. A comparison was made between the catches obtained by mouth aspirator and light trap. Hourly collections of Culicoides were done directly from cattle (oral aspirator) as well as light trap was operated in close vicinity of cattle at a different shed.Results A total of 11,462 Culicoides belonging to C. oxystoma, C. peregrinus and C. fulvus were collected in light trap and aspirator. In aspirator 4764 midges were collected whereas 6698 individuals were collected in light trap. The following species were aspirated: C. peregrinus and C. oxystoma; however the light trap catches consisted of C. fulvus, C. oxystoma and C. peregrinus. Light trap collection exhibited crepuscular activity whereas aspirator collection was maximum between 4.00 am and 5.00 am. Likewise maximum landing of midges was observed in neck and hump region of cattle.Conclusion It was observed that the preferred time of feeding of C. peregrinus and C. oxystoma on cattle were early morning hours though midges were ubiquitous from dusk to dawn. Surprisingly the preferential landing of the two vectors were mostly restricted to the neck and hump region of the cattle. The results obtained during the study warrants further insight into the factors influencing the landing site by the vectors which may be useful biological data in disease management and draw effective deterrent strategies.
Culturing Putatively Obligate Epizoic Diatoms: Insights for the Evolution and Ecology of Diatoms and Their Host
Authors: Ashworth Matt , Majewska Roksana , Frankovich Thomas A , Sullivan Michael , Bosak Sunčica , Filek Klara , de Vijver Bart Van , Arendt Michael , Schwenter Jeffrey , Nel Ronel , Robinson Nathan J. , Gary Meagan P. , Theriot Edward C. , Stacy Nicole I. , Lam Daryl W. , Perrault Justin R. , Manire Charles A. , Manning Schonna R.
Published: November 2021

Background: Our understanding of the importance of microbiomes on large aquatic animals—such as whales, sea turtles and manatees—has advanced considerably in recent years. Recent activity describing the epizoic diatoms growing on marine vertebrates suggests that these epibiotic diatom communities constitute diverse, polyphyletic, and compositionally stable assemblages that include both putatively obligate epizoic and generalist species. Here, we outline a successful attempt to culture putatively obligate epizoic diatoms without their hosts and propose further applications and research avenues in this growing area of study. Results: We cultured cells of epizoic diatoms from multiple host species sampled in the wild and captivity. Analyzing the DNA sequences of these cultures, we found that several unique diatom taxa have independently evolved to occupy in epibiotic habitats. We created a library of reference sequence data for use in metabarcoding surveys of sea turtle and manatee microbiomes that will further facilitate the use of environmental DNA for studying host specificity in epizoic diatoms and the utility of diatoms as indicators of host ecology and health. Conclusions: Our discovery that epizoic diatoms can be cultured independently from their hosts raises several questions about the nature of the interaction between these diatom species and their hosts. We encourage the interdisciplinary community working with marine megafauna to consider including diatom sampling and diatom analysis into their routine practices.
The Neuroprotective Effect of l-Borneolum on Cerebral Ischemic Stroke by Regulating Dll4/Notch1 Pathway
Authors: Dong Taiwei , Chen Nian , Ma Rong , Xie Qian , Guo Xiaoqing , Wang Jian
Published: November 2021

Aiml-Borneolum is a monoterpene compound witch deserved from Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC, this study aimed to investigate the potential mechanism of l-borneolum on cerebral ischemic stroke (CIS) rats and provide evidence for the development of l-borneolum in CIS.MethodsPermanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) model rats were applied to this study. Neurological function was assessed by modified neurological severity scores (mNSS) and Longa neurological function scoring methods. The pathological changes of cerebral tissue were evaluated by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) and hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. Ultrastructure of blood brain barrier (BBB) was observed by transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, the expression of Notch1, Dll4, Hey1, Hes1, Hes5, VEGFA and p65 in the cortex were determined by Western blotting (WB) while expression of caspase 3 were determined by immunohistochemical method (IHC). Resultsl-Borneolum improved neurological function in a dose-dependently. l-Borneolum significantly alleviated brainstem edema and inflammation, as well as improved the ultrastructure of capillary and BBB in cortex. Moreover, 0.2 g/kg l-borneolum substantially decreased the protein expressions of Dll4, Notch1, Hes1, Hes5, and VEGFA in the cortex while decreased the level of Caspase-3 in the cortex of rats. Conclusions﻿l-Borneolum could repair neurological function by regulating Dll4/Notch1 signaling pathway.
Impact of Unintended Initial Dissection of the Posterior Plane on Surgery Time During Small Incision Lenticule Extraction Surgery
Authors: Zheng Ke , Han Yinan , Wang Jing , Han Tian , Zhou Xingtao
Published: November 2021

Background: To study the impact of unintended initial dissection of the posterior plane (UIDPP) on operation time and surgical outcomes during small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery.Methods: Based on the SMILE procedure video, the operating eyes were assigned to the normal and UIDPP groups according to the presence or absence of UIDPP signals during surgery. The UIDPP group was further separated into early and late detection. Patient's demographic data, preoperative evaluation data, operation time and postoperative outcomes were collected.Results: Sixty-six patients who underwent SMILE were included, with 24 patients with UIDPP (13 in the early detection group and 11 in the late group). The optical zone was smaller (median 6.5 vs. 6.6, P=0.007), and the operation time was longer (median, 189.5 vs. 91.0 s, P<0.001) in the UIDPP group compared with controls. There were significant differences in operation time between the late detection group and early detection group (median, 489.0 vs. 139.0 s, P<0.05) and between the late detection group and normal group (489.0 vs. 91.0 s, P<0.05), while the optical zone was different only between the late detection and normal groups (median, 6.6 vs. 6.5, P<0.05). Conclusion: The occurrence of UIDPP will increase the surgery time of SMILE. Detecting IUDPP earlier could help shorten the operation time.
The Effect of Weed Management on Seed Banks in Paddy Rice Fields
Authors: Sumekar Yayan , Widayat Dedi
Published: November 2021

Weeds are one of the problems in rice plants, so the presence of weeds in rice fields must be controlled. Different ways of managing weeds on agricultural land can affect the seed bank of weeds in the soil. This study aims to determine differences in weed seed banks due to differences in weed management, especially the use of herbicides in lowland rice. The study was conducted at the Agricultural Training and Development Research Center, Faculty of Agriculture, Padjadjaran University, Bandung Regency, Indonesia from May–July 2020. The study used a paddy field plot consisting of intensive, less intensive use of herbicides and non-herbicide use. This research was conducted with survey and descriptive methods to see the type and composition of weeds at a certain depth and to see differences in seed banks. Observations were made including analysis of weed vegetation, community coefficients, weed diversity, weed dominance and differences in seed bank from depth. The results showed that there were 7 weed species found, namely Rorippa palustris, Monochoria vaginalis, Leptochloa chinensis, Echinochloa crus-galli, Eclipta prostate, Lindernia procumbens, and Marchantia polymorpha. Weed management with herbicides is proven to reduce weed populations that grow.
A Pioneer Study on a Non-invasive Method for in Ovo Chicken Egg Sexing.
Authors: Ching Congo Tak Shing , Wang Chien-Kai , Li Chin , Chiu Hsuan-Ni , Hieu Nguyen Van , Phan Thien Luan
Published: November 2021

Background: Day-old male chicks culling is one of the world most inhumane problems in the poultry industry. Every year, seven billions of male chicks are being killed in laying-hen hatcheries, due to their higher feed exchange rate, lower management compare to female ones and production costs. This work reports a novel non-invasive method for the gender identification of chicken eggs. Four electrodes were attached onto each egg during the incubation process for the data gathering period of fourteen days. Standard polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based chicken gender determination protocol was applied to the eggs on the last day of the incubation process to get the gender information. Result: A relationship between the collected data and the gender of the egg was built, and it was found to have a reliable connection, indicating that by measure the impedance data of the eggs from day 9 of incubation with the four electrodes setting and applying the self-normalization technique, we can determine the chicken egg gender.Conclusion: This is a pioneer founding, proving that impedance spectroscopy can be use to sexing of chicken eggs, before its life has been formed, relieving the poultry industry from such an ethical burden.
Demethylation of Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein2( SFRP2) Promoter Upregulates Wnt/β-Catenin Activity in Endometriosis
Authors: Yang Mei , Jiang Chunfan , Li Lin , Huang Xiaojie , Xing Hui , Hong Li
Published: November 2021

Wnt/β-catenin signalling contributes to the metastasis and invasion in the etiology and pathogenesis of endometriosis (EMS), but why the WNT pathway is dysregulated in EMS remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects of demethylation of SFRP2 promoter on the Wnt/β-catenin activity in EMS. Aberrantly methylated-differentially expressed genes were identified from GEO database microarray data. 5 ectopic endometrium and 5 normal endometrium were get, subsequently, ectopic endometrium epithelial cells (EEECs) and normal endometrium epithelial cells (NEECs) were isolated in vitro. MSP, BSP, luciferase reporter assay, Lentivirus infection of high expression of SFRP2 gene vector, low expression of DNMT1 gene vector, and 5-Aza stimulation, RT-PCR and western blot were performed in the tissues or cells. It was found that compared with the normal endometrium and NEECs, the RNA and protein expression levels of SFRP2 were significantly increased while the SFRP2 promoter was demethylated in ectopic endometrium and EEECs. The 5-Aza treatment significantly upregulated SFRP2 mRNA and protein levels in EEECs. Furthermore, after the knockdown of DNMT1 expression, the demethylation of the SFRP2 promoter and upregulation of SFRP2 mRNA and protein in EEECs were observed. Meanwhile, the expression of lentivirus carrying SFRP2 cDNA up-regulates the activity of Wnt signaling and the protein expression of β-catenin in EEECs. In summary, the increased SFRP2 expression-induced Wnt/β-catenin signaling due to the demethylation of the SFRP2 promoter plays an important role in the pathogenesis of EMS, suggesting that SFRP2 might be a therapeutic target for EMS treatment.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Limited Brain Metastasis using Three Different Techniques; Helical Tomotherapy, Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy, and Cone-Based Linac Radiosurgery.
Authors: Jia-Mahasap Bongkot , Madla Chakri , Sri Patumrat , Chitapanarux Imjai , Tharavichitkul Ekkasit , Chakrabandhu Somvilai , Klunklin Pitchayaponne , Onchan Wimrak
Published: November 2021

Background: Specific radiation delivered to the tumor by stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) has become widely used in the treatment of brain metastasis. This study aimed to compare radiation dosimetry and its parameters from SRS using three different modalities: Helical Tomotherapy (HT), Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), and Cone-based Linac Radiosurgery (Cone-based). Methods: Patients who had experienced oligo-brain metastasis received SRS in our treatment center. Each contouring dataset was re-planned to create radiation dosimetry in all three treatment systems (HT, VMAT, and Cone-based). The parameters of conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), CI50, and gradient index (CGI) were analyzed to compare the effects of the three techniques. Results: A total of 21 patients with 39 lesions were included in this study. For single lesion, Cone-based and VMAT revealed statistically identical CI, CI50, and CGI values, while exhibiting the poorest HI value. For multiple lesions, Cone-based provided the best CI50 and CGI values. VMAT displayed better CI50 and CGI values than HT. Moreover, VMAT exhibited the lowest BrainV5Gy value and displayed the shortest beam on time (BoT) calculation. Lastly, Decision Score analysis demonstrated better performance in VMAT when compared to the Cone-based approach. Conclusions: Our data indicated the dosimetric comparison between three radiation techniques for single and multiple lesions. The Cone-based technique revealed the poorest HI value. On the other hand, VMAT provided the best estimated BoT value. Moreover, we have reported on the feasibility of SRS using HT, which has been associated with well-tolerability and an acceptable level of radiation output.Trial registration: Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) ID No. TCTR20200803006Date of registration: 24 July 2020 (Retrospectively registered)URL: http://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20200803006
Effect of Fermented Traditional Chinese Prescription With Lactobacillus Plantarum on Dysbacteriotic Diarrhea Mice Induced by Ceftriaxone Sodium
Authors: Guo Xin , Yan Zipeng , Wang Jixiang , Fan Xinfeng , Kang Jie , Niu Ruiyan , Sun Zilong
Published: November 2021

Background: Buzhongyiqi decoction (B), Sijunzi decoction (S), and Shenlingbaizhu decoction (SH) have been extensively clinically used for the treatment of health status and diseases caused by spleen-qi deficiency for many years and microbial fermentation has been widely applied in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years in China. This study was aimed to investigate the mitigative effect of TCM and fermented TCM (FTCM) with Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) in antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and identify the compounds of S and Fermented S (FS). Methods: The dysbacteriotic diarrhea mice induced by ceftriaxone sodium (CS) were treated with LP, B, S, SH, Fermented B, S, and SH. The diarrhea indexes, the abundance of some gut bacteria, intestinal morphometrics, and the mRNA expressions related to intestinal barrier function were assessed at multilevels. In addition, S and FS were chosen to identify and relatively quantify the compounds by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS), and different expressed compounds were analysed. Results: Results showed that CS significantly increased the fecal output weight, the total number of fecal output, and fecal water content, indicating the occurrence of diarrhea, while TCM, LP, and FTCM alleviated the diarrhea to different degrees and FTCM showed more sustained effects. Then, bacterial culture test showed above symptoms were accompanied with the disruption of some intestinal flora. Meanwhile, the diarrhea mice showed abnormal intestinal morphology and destroyed intestinal barrier manifested as reduced mRNA expression of Aquaporins (AQPs) and tight junction (TJ) protein. Notably, the above indices were alleviated in other treatments mice.Conclusions: All these findings imply that the intestinal side effects caused by antibiotics can be alleviated by TCM, LP, and fermented TCM through regulating the intestinal flora and barrier function, which provides an idea of further development and application of them in the clinical use of antibiotics.
Arc eruptions deliver ‘first blow’ in the pulsed end-Permian mass extinction
Authors: Chapman Timothy , Milan Luke , Metcalfe Ian , Blevin Phil , Crowley James
Published: November 2021

Brief pulses of intense magmatic activity (flare-ups) along convergent margins represent drivers for climatic excursions that can lead to major extinction events. However, correlating volcanic outpouring to environmental crises in the geological past is often difficult due to poor preservation of volcanic sequences. Herein, we present a high-fidelity, CA-TIMS U–Pb zircon record of an end-Permian flare-up event in Eastern Australia, that involved the eruption of >39,000–150,000 km3 of silicic magma in c. 4.21 million years. A correlated high-resolution tephra record (c. 260–249 Ma) in the proximal sedimentary basins suggests recurrence of eruptions from the volcanic field in intervals of ~51,000–145,000 years. Peak eruption activity at 253 Ma is chronologically associated with the pulsed stages of the Permian mass extinction event. The ferocity of the 253 Ma eruption cycle in Eastern Australia is identified as a driver of greenhouse crises and ecosystem stress that led to the reduction in diversity of genera and the demise of the Glossopteris Forests. Simultaneous global continental margin arc flare-up events could thus present an additional agent to trigger greenhouse warming and ecosystem stress that preceded the catastrophic eruption of the Siberian Traps.
Remote Limb Ischemic Postconditioning Ameliorated Microglia-Mediated Inflammation Against Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion through Modulating Microglial Activation and Polarization via TLR4 Pathway
Authors: Huang Dan , Zhang Leyuan , Zhong Jiaju , Zou Youli , Yuan Guanghong , Wang Zhenyu
Published: November 2021

Accumulating researches have indicated that remote limb ischemic postconditioning (RIPC) mediates neuroprotection by inhibition inflammatory response against cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R), which is proved to correlated with microglial activation and polarization. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, middle cerebral artery occlusion /reperfusion model in Sprague-Dawley rats were conducted and treated with vehicle or RIPC immediately after reperfusion. Infarct size, and neurological scores were performed to asses stroke outcomes for 7 days. Brain damage and neuronal survival were detected using HE and Nissl staining. ELISA, western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining were utilized to evaluate inflammatory response, neuronal apoptosis, and microglial activation and polarization to M1- or M2-subtypes respectively. Results showed that RIPC significantly attenuated infarct size at 3d and alleviated the neurological deficits of rats at 3d and 7d post-ischemia. Furthermore, RIPC decreased expression of inflammatory cytokines IL-β, TNF-α and neuronal loss, and increased expression of cytokines IL-10 and Bcl-2. In addition, RIPC suppressed microglial activation and promoted microglial polarization to M2 type along with downregulation of TLR4 expression. These results suggested that RIPC was neuroprotective against ischemic stroke by modulating the activation of microglia/macrophages and encouraging polarization to M2 phenotype possibly through TLR4 signaling pathway.
Vaping-related news events and their relationship with sentiment in the online vaping environment: A computational interrupted time series analysis with large-scale public data
Authors: Kumar Navin , Janmohamed Kamila
Published: November 2021

Background: Vaping-related news coverage may have furthered misconceptions around the relative harms of vapes. Also, some positive opinions around vaping may be derived from misinformation, perhaps creating inimical health outcomes. Thus, we need to study how vaping-related news events (e.g. 2019 vaping illness epidemic, COVID-19) are associated with sentiment in the online vaping environment, to better understand how to promote vaping as a potential harm reduction technique for those who smoke and are unable to quit, and to minimize vape-centric misinformation that could lead to reduced health outcomes. Methods: We obtained vaping-related online data through web-scraping several online environments from August 1 2019 - April 21 2020. Sentiment analysis was performed to understand changes in sentiment in the online vaping environment in relation to vaping-related events, such as the Trump administration's planned ban on flavored vaping products, and when COVID-19 was first reported to the WHO. Results: For all online environments, we observed a statistically significant negative association of 15% (Estimate: -0.16; 95% CI: -0.29, -0.03; P: 0.01) between sentiment score and the Trump administration's move towards a ban on flavored vaping products, and a statistically significant positive association of 7% between sentiment score (Estimate: 0.07; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.14; P: 0.02) and when COVID-19 was first reported to the WHO (December 31 2019). Conclusions: News events may be related to sentiment in the online vaping environment, depending on the event. Depending on the nature of the event, we suggest that public health messaging may improve health outcomes.
The interaction of migration range, regional economic development level on social capital and public health services of internal migrants: evidence from the China Migrant Dynamic Survey in 2017
Authors: Yang Zhen , Jiang Cheng-hua , Hu Jiansheng
Published: November 2021

Background: Studies have confirmed that migration range (MR), regional economic development level (REDL) and social capital have impacts on the internal migrants' (IMs') accessibility of National Essential Public Health Services (NEPHS), but no research has explored the interaction of the four variables. Method: A cross-sectional sample of 115412 IMs from the China Migrant Dynamic Survey in 2017 was selected. The sampling method was layered, multi-stage, and probability proportional to size. Logistic regression was conducted by SPSS22.0, sex, residence duration, community type, and education as the control variables, REDL and MR as the moderating variables, social capital as independent variable and awareness of NEPHS and registration of health records (RHR) as the dependent variables. Results: In high income provinces (HIPs), the intra-provincial IMs' CSC, civic participation, social participation, NEPHS awareness and RHR were 4.73±1.736, 49.3%, 55.3%, 61.1%, and 31.9%, and the inter-provincial IMs' levels were 4.01±1.713, 40.5%, 47.2%, 54.6%, and 26.8%; In low-and middle- income provinces (LMIPs), the intra-provincial and inter-provincial IMs' levels were 5.13±1.767, 46.1%, 48.1%, 65.6%, 35.5%, and 5.02±1.775, 41.5%, 41.5%, 62.06%, 34.1%, respectively. In the complete regression model, the interaction of MR, REDL and CSC was not significant, while the interaction of MR, REDL and SSC was significant. In the group regression model, the ORs of CSC, civic participation, and social participation were significantly greater than 1 both in HIPs and LMIPs. However, the interaction of MR and SSC was significant in HIPs but not significant in LMIPs. Conclusions: The social capital and NEPHS utilization of inter-provincial IMs was significantly lower than that of intra-provincial IMs, and these gaps were more prominent in HIPs. Social capital had a positive effect on IMs' NEPHS utilization, and this effect was significantly moderated by MR and REDL. The next focus of the equalization of public services should be the primary health resources supply and the IMs' social capital construction of HIPs.
Refractive Errors and Strabismus In Patients with Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Artuso Camille Catarina , Fernandes Ana Kelly , Hopker Luisa Moreira , Fernandes Ricardo Mokross , Freitas Renato da Silva , de Castro Luis Ricardo Antunes
Published: November 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence of refractive errors and strabismus in patients with orofacial clefts. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed the medical records of 54 patients with orofacial clefts between August 2018 and March 2020. A complete eye examination was performed, including visual acuity assessment on a logMAR scale, anterior biomicroscopy, cycloplegic refraction, eye motility examination, and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Results: The mean age of the patients at presentation was 9.47 years. Twentythree (42.59%) patients had isolated cleft palate (CP), 10 (18.52%) had cleft lip (CL), and 21 (38.89%) had cleft lip and palate (CLP). The mean spherical equivalent was 1.30D (±1.56) in CL, 0.32D (±2.24) in CLP, and 0.62D (±3.76) in CP. The prevalence of refractive error, either spherical or cylinder >0.5 was 88%. The most common refractive error was hyperopia (60%), followed by astigmatism (54%) and myopia (16%). Overall, 52.63% of the patients were prescribed glasses. No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups with respect to the need for prescription of glasses (p=0.6753). There were 15 patients with some type of strabismus, and other ophthalmological changes were observed in 13 patients. Conclusion: In this population with orofacial clefts, the prevalence of refractive errors and strabismus was 88% and 22%, respectively.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on The Outcome of Treatment with Bevacizumab in Diabetic Macular Edema: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fekri Sahba , Soheilian Masoud , Roozdar Sepehr , Abtahi Seyed-Hossein , Nouri Hosein
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Concomitant vitamin D deficiency (VDD) is speculated to aggravate diabetic macular edema (DME). We aimed to determine the effect of hypovitaminosis D correction on the outcome of treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in DME eyes.Methods: 83 eyes of 83 patients with DME were recruited and divided into three groups: normal vitamin D levels + IVB administration (Group 1 ), vitamin D insufficient/deficient + IVB administration (Group 2), and vitamin D insufficient/deficient + IVB administration+ oral vitamin D supplementation (Group 3). Visual (corrected distance visual acuity, CDVA) and anatomical (central macular thickness, CMT) outcomes of intervention were evaluated 1, 3, and 6 months after the triple IVB injections were completed. Serum vitamin D levels were measured 1 and 6 months after the third IVB administration. Results: In months 1, 3, and 6, after the basic triple IVB injection, visual acuity and CMT improved in all three groups, but improvements (both functional and anatomical) in groups 1 and 3 (sufficient vitamin D and corrected hypovitaminosis D) in month 6 were more significant than in group 2 (uncorrected hypovitaminosis D) (p <0.001). The mean number of IVB injections during follow-up was 5.33 (range: 4-7), which did not differ between the groups.Conclusion: Correction of vitamin D deficiency in DME patients with type 2 diabetes and vitamin D deficiency, in addition to IVB injections, may play a role in improving CDVA and CMT. However, this beneficial effect seems to be delayed by several months.Trial registration: Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20200407046978N1, registered on April 11, 2020, - retrospectively registered. https://en.irct.ir/trial/46999
Laser Assisted Micro Grinding of Titanium
Authors: Sahu Ashish Kumar , Jha Sunil
Published: November 2021

Laser assisted micro-grinding (LAMG) is an emerging area of research in the field of high-quality micro-job fabrication and performance improvement. Conventional micro grinding (CMG) by micro pencil grinding tool suffers drawbacks such as tool deflection, higher cutting force and poor surface finish. In the present work, authors have attempted to investigate the performance of LAMG and CMG in the fabrication of micro-channel on Titanium material. Surface of workpiece was structured with the help of air assisted nanosecond-pulsed fiber laser scanning prior to the CMG at the different values of laser power by keeping scanning velocity constant. During the study, the CMG forces were recorded and after the processes surface roughness of the fabricated microchannels was measured. Results have shown reduction in the magnitude of the normal and tangential force by 31 % and 44 %, respectively, in LAMG compared to the CMG. In addition to that better surface finish was observed in LAMG than CMG. The surface roughness of micro-channel and grinding forces were found to be dependent on the power density of laser. Increase in the laser power deteriorates the surface finish and reduces the magnitude of grinding forces. High grinding forces in the CMG led to the dynamic deflection of the grinding wheel which produced the vibration in the process. The excessive vibration in CMG processes exploited the surface finish of the micro-channel. Such vibration was not observed on the LAMG process; as a result, better dimensional accuracy and surface finish of the channel was found.
Digitale Hochschulbildung nach 2020: Mut zum Machen in der Digitalität – statt sie zu vertagen
Authors: Mayrberger Kerstin
Published: November 2021

Im vorliegenden Essay wird ausgehend von der durch COVID-19 erfolgten Disruption die Bedeutung von Zeit, Beziehungen und Werten für eine zeitgemässe und zukünftig möglichst anknüpfungsfähige Hochschulbildung unter den dynamischen Bedingungen von Digitalisierung und einer Kultur der Digitalität angesprochen. Ankerpunkt dafür ist eine mitunter provokativ vorgetragene Irritation über eine Diskrepanz beim souveränen Verbinden von ‹doing› und ‹being› im Bereich der digitalen Hochschulbildung. Anhand eines Beispiels im Kontext von medienbezogener Qualität und Professionalität wird für einen erweiterten mediendidaktischen Blick geworben. Agile Werte und Prinzipien mit Blick auf Personen, Diversität und Teilhabe können im Bildungsbereich im Sinne eines Agile Educational Leadership dazu beitragen, einem entsprechenden ‹doing› und ‹being› – ähnlich wie den Bedingungen von Digitalisierung und Digitalität – als zentrale Dualität zu begegnen, um das Machen nicht zu vertagen, sondern offen und mutig zu agieren.
Determination of temperature distribution on windings of oil transformer based on the laws of heat transfer
Authors: Grabko Volodymyr , Tkachenko Stanislav , Palaniuk Oleksandr
Published: November 2021

Object of research: development of a technology for determining the temperature of the winding of a power oil transformer, in particular, the analysis of thermal processes in the winding of a power transformer during short-term overloads, taking into account the influence of the environment.

Investigated problem: temperature distribution in the winding of a power oil transformer taking into account short-term load surges in the problem of assessing the residual life of the insulation of the transformer winding by temperature aging. The calculation of the temperature distribution in the winding was carried out using the passport data and characteristics of the power oil transformer, including the winding, transformer oil, load currents.

Main scientific results: a mathematical model was calculated, with the help of which the results of temperature distribution in the transformer winding were obtained during short-term load surges or constant work with an increased load. According to the presented model, the analysis of the cooling time of the transformer winding after short-term overloads is carried out. Comparing the results obtained on the simulation model with the known results of experimental studies of the temperature distribution in the winding of a power transformer, the adequacy of the mathematical model is proved. It is shown that the use of the laws of heat transfer in a homogeneous plate to analyze the temperature distribution in the transformer winding is not wrong, but requires clarifications and simplifications.

The area of practical use of the research results: enterprises of the machine-building industry and energy companies specializing in the production and operation of transformer equipment. Innovative technological product: simulation model of heat distribution in a transformer winding, which can take into account the load of the transformer, the effect of the environment on the insulation of the transformer windings.

An innovative technological product: a method for diagnosing the duration of the non-failure operation of a transformer, which makes it possible to ensure trouble-free operation and save money for the repair of transformer equipment.

Scope of application of the innovative technological product: design and development of diagnostic systems for windings of power oil transformers
Determination of antimicrobial and fungicidal properties of experimental disinfectant "Sukhodez"
Authors: Fotina Tetiana , Slasten Dasha , Fotin Oleksii
Published: November 2021

The results of the study of antimicrobial and fungicidal properties of the experimental preparation “Sukhodez” against microorganisms E. coli, Salmonella enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus and fungi Candida albicans in the laboratory are presented.

The aim of the research. To study the antimicrobial and fungicidal properties of powdered disinfectant and analyze the prospects for its further use in a set of anti-epizootic measures in particular in poultry farms.

Materials and methods. The research was conducted during 2021 at the Department of Veterinary Examination, Microbiology, Zoohygiene and Safety and Quality of Animal Products of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Sumy National Agrarian University. Evaluation of bactericidal properties of the experimental agent “Sukhodez” was determined on museum strains of E. coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella enteritidis ATCC 13076 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, fungicidal properties were studied on fungi Candida albicans. All cultures were standardized to 109 CFU / cm3.

Results. It is established that as a result of the conducted researches at studying preparation “Sukhodez” antimicrobic properties, it had high efficiency concerning action on strains of both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It had a detrimental effect on bacteria when applied to concrete at an exposure of 1 hour with a rate of 75 mg per 1 m2, and had the same effect as when applied to a wooden surface, where it expressed antimicrobial action at a rate of 50 mg/m2 after 4 hours. When determining the fungicidal properties, it was found that when exposed to 5 hours, the preparation “Sukhodez” had an effect on study contaminated objects with a rate of 50 mg/m2, and with a rate of 75 mg/m2 inhibited the growth of fungi for 1 hour.

Conclusions. It was found that the most sensitive to the preparation “Sukhodez” were the culture of Salmonella enteritidis – at a rate of 25 g / m2 and action on concrete and wooden surfaces, the disinfectant inhibited the growth of the culture when exposed to 5 hours, and at a rate of 50 g / m2 – for 2 years. Staphylococcus aureus was the most stable bacterial culture, so at a rate of 50 g / m2 on concrete and wood surfaces, bacterial growth was inhibited for 4 and 5 hours, respectively. At the same time, in the study of fungicidal properties, “Sukhodez” showed a fungicidal effect on Candida albicans when applied to a concrete surface at a rate of 50 mg / m2 for 3 hours, when applied to a wooden surface – for 4 hours.

In general, at a rate of 75 g / m2, “Sukhodez” has an instant bactericidal and fungicidal effect on bacteria and fungi applied to concrete and wooden surfaces
Biochemical status of blood of dogs with atopic dermatitis in the conditions of private veterinary clinic “Alfa vet” m. Konotop
Authors: Stotska Olga , Shkromada Oksana , Stockiy Aleksandr
Published: November 2021

Metabolic changes in the body of dogs with atopic dermatitis and the causes of its occurrence still remain poorly understood. This study confirms the need for biochemical blood tests for the differential diagnosis of skin diseases in animals.

The aim of the research. To identify metabolic changes in dogs with atopic dermatitis.

Methods. Serum samples from five ill animals and five intact animals were tested. The diagnosis of the nosological form of skin lesions was established based on the results of anamnesis and clinical manifestations of the disease. Additionally, biochemical studies of the serum of sick animals were performed. Blood of dogs (n=5) was taken from the anterior subcutaneous vein of the forearm or the lateral subcutaneous vein of the tibia into blood tubes.

Results. In the study of mineral metabolism, it was found that the concentration of inorganic phosphorus in the serum of sick animals is reduced by only 0.01 mmol/l, but the concentration of total calcium by 10.0 %. The concentration of cholesterol increases 1.3 times and exceeds the reference values by 0.16 mmol/l. In the blood of sick animals, the activity of alanine aminotransferase is significantly reduced by 21.0 % and aspartate aminotransferase – by 20.0 % compared to intact animals. The enzyme gamma-glutamyltransferase probably increases by 1.51 times (P<0.05) in sick dogs, but does not exceed the reference values.

Conclusions. It was found that in atopic dermatitis in the serum of dogs decreases the activity of alanine aminotransferase by 21.0 % and aspartate aminotransferase – by 20.0 %, while the activity of gamma-glutamyltransferase increases 1.51 times. The results show the toxic effect of an allergic agent on animals, especially on the liver, which confirms the previous diagnosis – atopic dermatitis.
Application of bacillus megaterium for subclinical mastitis in cows
Authors: Tytukh Yaroslav , Musiienko Yurii , Grebenik Natalia
Published: November 2021

The problem of treatment of subclinical mastitis often arises after calving, especially in cows of the first lactation. The paper presents the results of the therapeutic effect of Bacillus megaterium in subclinical mastitis in cows.

The aim of the research. To determine the effect of Bacillus megaterium on the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract and colonies of microorganisms isolated from subclinical mastitis in cows.

Materials and methods. The research was conducted in a dairy farm growing Holstein. Cows with subclinical mastitis of the experimental groups were given concentrated feed with the addition of Bacillus megaterium (1 × 109 CFU/g) at a dose of 15–35 g per animal. The control group of cows was given the usual diet for dairy cows. The experiment lasted 30 days.

Results. The use of Bacillus megaterium (1 × 109 CFU/g) at a dose of 35 g per animal had a pronounced effect on the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract of cows. The amount of Lactobacillus sp. was 67 % higher and Bifidobacterium 58 % higher than the control. In addition, the level of opportunistic pathogens on Escherichia coli decreased by 45 %, Clostridium by 27 %, Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus by 75 %, and Candida by 80 % compared to controls. The amount of microflora in milk decreased by 40.2 % and the number of somatic cells by 87.9 %.

Conclusions. The therapeutic efficacy of Bacillus megaterium (1 × 109 CFU/g) at a dose of 35 g per animal for 30 days in subclinical mastitis has been proven. After treatment, the amount of microflora in cow's milk decreased by 40.2 % and the number of somatic cells by 87.9 %.

A positive effect on the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract of cows, where the number of Lactobacillus sp. increased by 67 % and Bifidobacterium by 58 %. The level of opportunistic pathogenic microflora decreased by Escherichia coli – by 45 %, Clostridium – by 27 %, Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus – by 75 %, Candida – by 80 %, compared to the control.
Extraction and Characterization of Pequi Seed Oil for Biodiesel Production: A Green Management of Waste to Biofuel Using Ethanol and Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Guimarães Munique , Evaristo Rafael , de Macedo Julio , Ghesti Grace
Published: November 2021

This work reports the characterization of a vegetable oil extracted from pequi seeds, an agroindustrial residue, and its biodiesel production using ethanol and heterogeneous catalysis. The pequi seeds showed 40.73 wt.% of extractive content, which represents a large amount of the biomass composition. The crude oil extracted from the pequi seeds with ethanol as solvent presented a high content of free fatty acids (FFAs), mainly oleic (54.14%) and palmitic (36.71%) acids, resulting in an acidity value of 13.8 ± 0.1 mg KOH g-1. The esterification/transesterification process was performed using two ion exchange resins as heterogeneous catalysts, a commercial protonic form (assigned as PR) and a zirconium-exchanged (assigned as PRZr). Conversions of 87.1 and 91.4% were achieved for PR and PRZr as catalysts, respectively, at optimal conditions (1:6 oil-to-alcohol molar ratio, 25 wt.% of catalyst, 100 ºC and 1 h). These results indicated that heterogeneous acid catalysts can be successfully applied in biodiesel production from fatty acidrich oils, such as the one extracted from pequi seeds. Also, a simultaneous process involving both oil extraction and biodiesel production was tested using PRZr as catalyst (25 wt.% of catalyst and 100 ºC), but due to the greater amount of ethanol necessary for the oil extraction (1:16 oil to alcohol mass ratio) the conversion reached only 51.5% after 5 h. For that reason, this work proposes a two stage system for biodiesel production that integrates oil extraction (stage one) and the esterification/transesterification reaction (stage two) to achieve a greener process, waste-to-bioenergy.
La guacamaya roja y las estrategias de manejo y conservación en Reforma Agraria, Chiapas, México
Authors: Ucan David E. , Enríquez Paula L. , Bello-Baltazar Eduardo , Cupiche Vianney J.
Published: November 2021

Introducción: las poblaciones de la guacamaya roja (Ara macao) en México han disminuido o se han extinguido en algunas regiones. Debido a esto, en Reforma Agraria, Chiapas, México se han implementado diferentes estrategias de manejo para su conservación. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir el proceso y la implementación de las estrategias de manejo y conservación para la guacamaya roja (Ara macao) e indagar como han impactado estas actividades en sus poblaciones.
Método: se realizaron 20 entrevistas semiestructuradas a los prestadores de servicios ecoturísticos, a los socios de la Cooperativa Ara macao y a ejidatarios para registrar los procesos de la implementación de las estrategias de manejo y las percepciones sobre estas actividades. La primera parte de esta herramienta consistió en los datos demográficos de las personas, y en la segunda parte se establecieron cuatro categorías para describir: a) la organización social: origen, proceso de la organización, ordenamiento del área del ejido y del Centro Ecoturístico; b) las actividades económicas; c) las estrategias de manejo y conservación para la guacamaya roja, y d) obstáculos para la conservación. Los datos se sistematizaron mediante la conceptualización, la organización de ideas y se estructuraron cronológicamente. Asimismo, se analizó la base de datos de registros de guacamayas de eBird y se realizaron muestreos en el ejido para registrar a las guacamayas en dos transectos lineales y dos puntos elevados de observación a principios de 2020.
Resultados: se identificaron algunas estrategias de manejo y conservación, como son la instalación de cajas para anidación, el establecimiento de Unidades de Manejo para la Conservación de Vida Silvestre, Áreas Destinadas Voluntariamente a la Conservación y el ecoturismo. Este último se identificó como una actividad económicamente relevante por un 63 % de los entrevistados, en comparación con la agricultura, ganadería y carpintería. El análisis de la base de datos de eBird mostró una media de 5.3 registros y no varió en los 5 años analizados (P = 0.65). En este estudio se registraron 81 guacamayas rojas en los transectos lineales, con un índice de abundancia estimado de  = 2.95 ± 2.51 ind/km recorrido. Con la metodología de puntos elevados de observación se registraron 90 guacamayas rojas, con un número máximo también de 19 aves por muestreo; y con un índice de abundancia estimado de  = 3.55 ± 2.39 ind/h. Las iniciativas para la conservación de la guacamaya roja que se han implementado en la comunidad por medio de la organización ejidal y la consolidación del Centro Ecoturístico Las Guacamayas han sido fundamentales localmente para el mantenimiento de las guacamayas en el área.
Discusión o conclusión: las iniciativas, compromisos y gobernanza propia en el ejido Reforma Agraria han permitido mantener estas estrategias de conservación en pro de las poblaciones de la guacamaya roja en Chiapas.
Research progress on the contamination status and control policy of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in drinking water
Authors: Feng Cuimin , Xu Zhen , Li Ying , Zhu Na , Wang Zile
Published: November 2021

Cryptosporidium and Giardia are globally recognized protozoa that directly cause human diarrhea. Their transmission route mainly involves drinking contaminated water, thus needing proper water treatment to avoid human infection. At present, there is a lack of review on the infection status and control measures of the two protozoa. Hence, this article summarizes and compares the infection status and the role of drinking water in transmitting the Cryptosporidium and Giardia in some key countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. With collected data, this review offers recommendations for sanitary control and provides theoretical support for the application of drinking water treatment projects.
Contexto socioeconómico y problemática ambiental de la pesca en el Sistema Lagunar de Alvarado, Veracruz, desde la perspectiva de los pobladores
Authors: Neva Tablada Martha Elena , Villanueva Fortanelli J. de Jesús
Published: November 2021

Los problemas de la pesca en el Sistema Lagunar de Alvarado relacionados con aspectos ambientales han sido estudiados especialmente por las ciencias naturales, pero se han abordado poco desde un enfoque interdisciplinario socioambiental que tome en cuenta la opinión de los pescadores. El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar la problemática ambiental de la pesca desde la perspectiva de los pobladores de tres zonas del Sistema Lagunar de Alvarado mediante la aplicación de una encuesta. Los principales resultados indican que los pescadores son conscientes de que las causas de los problemas ambientales que afectan dicha actividad no solo se relacionan con factores externos como la contaminación, sino que ellos mismos contribuyen al detrimento del entorno. Se concluye que los pobladores identifican mayormente las problemáticas ambientales que se reflejan en el deterioro visual del paisaje o en pérdidas económicas a corto plazo, mientras que otros problemas con efectos a largo plazo y poco visibles en la laguna, como la contaminación por metales, no se perciben a pesar de las graves implicaciones sobre el ambiente y la salud humana.