bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Results on Computational Molecular Modeling of The Origins of Life
Authors: Mayen Juan Francisco Carrascoza , Błażewicz Jacek
Published: May 2020

In the last decade of research in the origins of life, there has been an increase in the interest on theoretical molecular modeling methods aimed to improve the accuracy and speed of the algorithms that solve the molecular mechanics and chemical reactions of the matter. Research on the scenarios of prebiotic chemistry has also advanced. The presented work attempts to discuss the latest computational techniques and trends implemented so far. Although it is difficult to cover the full extent of the current publications, we tried to orient the reader into the modern tendencies and challenges faced by those who are in the origins of life field.
Cancer Registry Report in Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt in 2015
Authors: Abo-Touk Niveen A.
Published: May 2020

Background

This study aimed to report a cancer registry in Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Department, Mansoura University Hospital in 2015.

Patients and Methods

All cancer patients who were registered in the department of Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Mansoura University Hospital in the time period from January 1st, 2015 to December 31st, 2015, were enrolled in this study. The data in the outpa­tient clinic index including patient’s name, age, sex and diagnosis were collected.

Results

The included patients were 1146 males (43.7%) and 1474 females (56.3%), the male to female ratio was 1:1.3. The median age for patients was 54 years, and it ranged from 1.5 to 93 years. The median age at diagnosis for female and male patients was 52 years and 57 years, respectively. The most common sites for cancer in females were breast (47.2%), thyroid (7.6%), colon and rectum (5.7%), non-Hodgkin (3.6%), uterus, brain and then ovary. However, the most common cancer sites among males were bladder (9.7%), colon and rectum (9.2%), lung (8.5%), hepatobiliary region (7.9%), brain (6.6%), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (6.6%) and then prostatic cancer.

Conclusion

The current report provides a first cancer registry for this hospital based on data, to be further included in cancer statistics.
Impact of cyclin D1 and DJ-1 on diagnosis, clinico-pathological features and outcome in prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Mohammed Amrallah A. , Ibrahim Hanna M. , Atwa Hanna A. , Elshentenawy Ayman , Elwan Amira
Published: May 2020

Background

Disturbance in cell cycle regulatory genes is a common finding among many types of cancers. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of cyclin D1 and DJ-1 in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PC).

Method

The current study enclosed 40 patients diagnosed with PC and 40 cases of BPH. The expression level of cyclin D1 and DJ-1 were evaluated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Cyclin D1 scored depending on the percentage of stained nuclear tumor cells. While scoring of DJ-1 was based on intensity. The results were correlated with clinicopathological features and outcome.

Results

In the PC group, cyclin D1 was detected in 95% and overexpressed in 42.5%, DJ-1 was positively stained in 85% and overexpressed in 47.5%. Meanwhile, in the BPH group, cyclin D1 was not detected and DJ-1 stained in only 2.5%. There was a statistically significant difference in Gleason score (GS), tumor stage, size, and treatment failure (p =< 0.001). In the terms of PC diagnosis prediction, although cyclin D1 was more specific (100%), DJ-1 is more sensitive than cyclin D1 (80%, 70%, respectively) (p = 0.000).

Conclusions

Cyclin D1 and DJ-1 may emerge as a promising way for diagnosis of PC in certain circumstances, as the presence of insufficient tissue sampling, small foci of carcinoma or benign lesions mimic PC. This is in addition to the known role of cyclin D1 and DJ-1 in PC prognosis.
Forest management practices and the occurrence of suspended solids in rivers and streams and their influence on ichthyofauna and river ecosystems
Authors: Mikołajczyk Tomasz , Nawrocki Przemysław
Published: May 2020

This article is based on a literature review and attempts to highlight the harmful effects of forest soil erosion on aquatic ecosystems with particular emphasis on ichthyofauna. We focus on the phenomena of excessive soil erosion caused by forest management practices and forest roads, subsequent sediment runoff as well as silting of watercourses and their impact on fish. Among others, the direct influence of the suspended sediments on fish reproduction, egg incubation, respiratory processes, growth and immunity, as well as indirect effects on habitat and migration are discussed. The authors’ intention is to draw attention to this important and underestimated aspect of forest management in Poland. The aim of this publication is to bring about changes in the management of commercial forests that will minimize the erosion of forest soils, formation of high levels of suspended solids in rivers and in turn limit their negative impact on aquatic ecosystems.
Immunohistochemical Studies of αSMA in the Epididymis of African Four-Toed Hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris)
Authors: Olukole S. G. , Coker O. M. , Oke B. O.
Published: May 2020

The epididymis plays an important role in sperm maturation, storage, transport and in the secretion of enzymes and proteins into the tubular lumen. In this study, we examined the histology, microstereology and immunohistochemical localization of alpha smooth muscle (αSMA) in the three regions of the epididymis of the African four-toed hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris). Ten adult males were captured from the wild in Ibadan, Nigeria, between May and October, 2016. The animals were euthanized and the epididymis (caput, corpus and cauda regions) were retrieved and fixed in buffered neutral formalin ahead of the paraffin technique, following standard procedures. The duct of the epididymis was lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelium comprising basal, principal and apical cells as well as intraepithelial lymphocytes in proximity to basal cells. The principal cells, the major cells encountered within the epididymal epithelium of the animal, decreased in population from the caput to the cauda epididymidis while the apical cells were more abundant in the cauda epididymidis. Positive reactions to αSMA were observed in the peritubular muscular coat of the epididymal duct as well as blood vessels across the three regions of the epididymis with the caput and cauda epididymidis showing stronger positive reactions compared to the corpus epididymidis. This study demonstrated that the histology, microstereology as well as the cellular constituents of the epididymal duct of theAtelerix albiventrisare similar to those of other mammals with a slight variation. It has also highlighted variation in the localization of αSMA across the regions of the epididymis of the animal.
Oxygen isotopic fractionation in rat bones as a result of consuming thermally processed water – bioarchaeological applications
Authors: Lisowska-Gaczorek Aleksandra , Szostek Krzysztof , Pawlyta Jacek , Cienkosz-Stepańczak Beata
Published: May 2020

Stable isotope analyses of oxygen are used in anthropology for such purposes as determination of origin of individuals, tracking migration routes or dynamics of human community relocation. The methodology related to oxygen isotope analysis has been founded on the relationship between its isotopic composition within phosphate groups of bone tissue (δ18Op) in individuals being analysed and the water consumed by such individuals (δ18Ow). Such a relationship has been observed in many species of mammals, including humans. However, the influence of culinary practices on the isotopic delta values of apatite phosphates of individuals has not yet been researched. The present study, which was conducted using laboratory rats, is an investigation of the influence of the thermal processing of water drank by such rats on the isotopic composition (δ18Op) of bone apatite. Increasing the value of the isotopic composition of water by about 6.1 ‰ during boiling resulted in an increase in the oxygen isotopic value δ18Op of rats drinking the water by about 4 ‰ (29%). It can be expected that regular consumption of heavily isotopic drinks and foods by humans may cause the δ18Op of individuals to exceed the range of isotopic environmental variability, even by a few per mille.
Investigating Financial Performance of Low-and High-Rated ETFs During the QE-Tapering
Authors: Galatis Nikolaos , Nitsi Ekaterini , Theloura Chrysoula
Published: May 2020

This paper investigates the financial performance of 37 low-rated and high-rated global ETFs during QE-Tapering. Weekly data are employed that cover the period from October 27, 2014 until September 24, 2018. The estimations are based on the well-known CAPM model. The measures employed are the Sharpe and Treynor ratios as well as the Jensen’s alpha, the beta and the a/b measures. Results indicate no existence of selectivity skills neither in low- nor in high-rated ETFs. It should be noted that low-rated ETFs exhibit bearish behavior whereas high-rated ones present bullish behavior. Thereby, one can see that high-rated ETFs are better able to outperform the market during periods of normalization of monetary policy after extra easing action taking has been terminated.
Lavandula angustifolia and Oxalis pes-caprae, hosts of Meloidogyne hapla and Meloidogyne javanica - A note for Meloidogyne luci in Greece
Authors: Gonçalves A.R. , Conceição I.L. , Kormpi M. , Tzortzakakis E.A.
Published: May 2020

Root-knot nematodes (RKN), Meloidogyne spp., have a wide host range and are common in the Mediterranean area. Cultivated lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) was found naturally infested by M. hapla in Kozani area, the first documented infestation of this crop by RKN in Greece. Oxalis pescaprae, a common winter weed in Crete, was found to be a host of M. javanica under artificial inoculation. This weed acts as a potential winter host of the nematode in fields cultivated with vegetable crops. Two populations of M. ethiopica were found in kiwi and maize in Greece in the past. Recently, populations of M. ethiopica from Europe were re-classified as M. luci, based only on the population isolated from kiwi for Greece. In the current work, the RKN populations originating from kiwi and maize and maintained on tomato, were identified as M. luci. Nematode species identification was determined by electrophoretic analysis of protein extracts obtained from females.
Cities drifting apart: Heterogeneous outcomes of decentralizing public education
Authors: Brutti Zelda
Published: May 2020

Looking at the decentralized provision of public education in a middle-income country, this paper estimates the impact of local autonomy on service quality, finding large heterogeneity in the effect across different levels of local development. In the year 2002, Colombian municipalities were entrusted with autonomous management of their local public education based solely on a population threshold. I estimate the impact that autonomy has had on education performance across the territory, using a municipality and time fixed-effects model. I find a quality gap arising between highly developed and low-developed autonomous municipalities, in a trend that reinforces over time: the reform has induced regional inequality in education quality. I am able to support the hypothesis that autonomous and nonautonomous municipalities were on similar performance trends before decentralization was implemented, even when looking within different local development ranges. Based on the analysis of detailed municipal balance sheet data and administration indicators, I argue that local administration capacity represents the most likely explanation of why the autonomy-related discrepancies have been arising.
Anaesthesia for Liver Transplantation: An Update
Authors: Brezeanu Lavinia Nicoleta , Brezeanu Radu Constantin , Diculescu Mircea , Droc Gabriela
Published: May 2020

Liver transplantation (LT) is a challenging surgery performed on patients with complex physiology profiles, complicated by multi-system dysfunction. It represents the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, and a successful procedure requires an excellent understanding of the patho-physiology of liver failure and its implications. Despite advances in knowledge and technical skills and innovations in immunosuppression, the anaesthetic management for LT can be complicated and represent a real challenge. Monitoring devices offer crucial information for the successful management of patients. Hemodynamic instability is typical during surgery, requiring sophisticated invasive monitoring. Arterial pulse contour analysis and thermo-dilution techniques (PiCCO), rotational thromboelastometry (RO-TEM), transcranial doppler (TCD), trans-oesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and bispectral index (BIS) have been proven to be reliable monitoring techniques playing a significant role in decision making. Anaesthetic management is specific according to the three critical phases of surgery: pre-anhepatic, anhepatic and neo-hepatic phase. Surgical techniques such as total or partial clamping of the inferior vena cava (IVC), use of venovenous bypass (VVBP) or portocaval shunts have a significant impact on cardiovascular stability. Post reperfusion syndrome (PRS) is a significant event and can lead to arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest.
The ARQUIGRAFIA project: A Web Collaborative Environment for Architecture and Urban Heritage Image
Authors: Lima Vânia Mara Alves , dos Santos Cibele Araújo Camargo Marques , Rozestraten Artur Simões
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper presents the ARQUIGRAFIA project, an open, public and nonprofit, continuous growth web collaborative environment dedicated to Brazilian architectural photographic images.

Design/methodology/approach

The ARQUIGRAFIA project promotes the active and collaborative participation among its institutional users (GLAMs, NGOs, laboratories and research groups) and private users (students, professionals, professors, researchers), both can create an account and share their digitized iconographic collections in the same Web environment by uploading their files, indexing, georeferencing and assigning a Creative Commons license.

Findings

The development of users interactions by means of semantic differentials impressions recording on visible plastic-spatial aspects of the architectures in synthetic infographics, as well as by the retrieval of images through an advanced system search based on those impressions parameters. By gamification means, the system often invites users to review images’ in order to improve images’ data accuracy. The pilot project named Open Air Museum that allows users to add audio descriptions to images in situ. An interface for users’ digital curatorship will be soon available.

Research limitations

The ARQUIGRAFIA’s multidisciplinary team gathering professors-researchers, graduate and undergraduate students from the Architecture and Urbanism, Design, Information Science, Computer Science faculties of the University of São Paulo, demands continuous financial resources for grants, for contracting third party services, for the participation in scientific events in Brazil and abroad, and for equipment. Since 2016, significant budget cuts in the University of São Paulo own research funds and in Brazilian federal scientific agencies can compromise the continuity of this project.

Practical implications

The open source template called +GRAFIA that can freely help other areas of knowledge to build their own visual Web collaborative environments.

Originality/value

The collaborative nature of the ARQUIGRAFIA distinguishes it from institutional image databases on the internet, precisely because it involves a heterogeneous network of collaborators.
Improving Archival Records and Service of Traditional Korean Performing Arts in a Semantic Web Environment
Authors: Park Ziyoung , Lee Hosin , Kim Seungchon , Park Sungjae
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This research project aims to organize the archival information of traditional Korean performing arts in a semantic web environment. Key requirements, which the archival records manager should consider for publishing and distribution of gugak performing archival information in a semantic web environment, are presented in the perspective of linked data.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes the metadata provided by the National Gugak Center’s Gugak Archive, the search and browse menus of Gugak Archive’s website and K-PAAN, the performing arts portal site.

Findings

The importance of consistency, continuity, and systematicity—crucial qualities in traditional record management practices—is undiminished in a semantic web environment. However, a semantic web environment also requires new tools such as web identifiers (URIs), data models (RDF), and link information (interlinking).

Research limitations

The scope of this study does not include practical implementation strategies for the archival records management system and website services. The suggestions also do not discuss issues related to copyright or policy coordination between related organizations.

Practical implications:

The findings of this study can assist records managers in converting a traditional performing arts information archive into a semantic web environment-based online archival service and system. This can also be useful for collaboration with record managers who are unfamiliar with relational or triple database system.

Originality/value

This study analyzed the metadata of the Gugak Archive and its online services to present practical requirements for managing and disseminating gugak performing arts information in a semantic web environment. In the application of the semantic web services’ principles and methods to an Gugak Archive, this study can contribute to the improvement of information organization and services in the field of Korean traditional music.
FAIR + FIT: Guiding Principles and Functional Metrics for Linked Open Data (LOD) KOS Products
Authors: Zeng Marcia Lei , Clunis Julaine
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To develop a set of metrics and identify criteria for assessing the functionality of LOD KOS products while providing common guiding principles that can be used by LOD KOS producers and users to maximize the functions and usages of LOD KOS products.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection and analysis were conducted at three time periods in 2015–16, 2017 and 2019. The sample data used in the comprehensive data analysis comprises all datasets tagged as types of KOS in the Datahub and extracted through their respective SPARQL endpoints. A comparative study of the LOD KOS collected from terminology services Linked Open Vocabularies (LOV) and BioPortal was also performed.

Findings

The study proposes a set of Functional, Impactful and Transformable (FIT) metrics for LOD KOS as value vocabularies. The FAIR principles, with additional recommendations, are presented for LOD KOS as open data.

Research limitations

The metrics need to be further tested and aligned with the best practices and international standards of both open data and various types of KOS.

Practical implications

Assessment performed with FAIR and FIT metrics support the creation and delivery of user-friendly, discoverable and interoperable LOD KOS datasets which can be used for innovative applications, act as a knowledge base, become a foundation of semantic analysis and entity extractions and enhance research in science and the humanities.

Originality/value

Our research provides best practice guidelines for LOD KOS as value vocabularies.
Nonlinear modelling and optimal control via Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy techniques: A quadrotor stabilization
Authors: Pokorný Miroslav , Dočekal Tomáš , Rosinová Danica
Published: May 2020

Using the principles of Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy modelling allows the integration of flexible fuzzy approaches and rigorous mathematical tools of linear system theory into one common framework. The rule-based T-S fuzzy model splits a nonlinear system into several linear subsystems. Parallel Distributed Compensation (PDC) controller synthesis uses these T-S fuzzy model rules. The resulting fuzzy controller is nonlinear, based on fuzzy aggregation of state controllers of individual linear subsystems. The system is optimized by the linear quadratic control (LQC) method, its stability is analysed using the Lyapunov method. Stability conditions are guaranteed by a system of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) formulated and solved for the closed loop system with the proposed PDC controller. The additional GA optimization procedure is introduced, and a new type of its fitness function is proposed to improve the closed-loop system performance.
An in-line coaxial-to-circular waveguide transition at X band
Authors: Xia Lei , Li Jia-Lin , Ji Zhuang , Gao Shan-Shan
Published: May 2020

A wideband transition from the coaxial TEM mode to the TM01 mode of the circular waveguide with in-line input-output architecture is proposed in this paper. The transition employs multi-stage stepped impedance transformer to achieve wideband responses. Both mode transition and impedance matching characteristics are discussed in the paper. A demonstrator is developed and validated experimentally. As compared with some recently published reports, a better performance is observed. Moreover, the developed transition could facilitate the mechanical fabrication more easily. It can be found wide applications such as the circular waveguide based slot array antenna, the nondestructive detection, cracks inside the conductive pipes, and so on.
Integrated SolidWorks and Simscape platform for the design and control of an inverted pendulum system
Authors: Alkamachi Ahmed
Published: May 2020

A single inverted pendulum on a cart (SIPC) is designed and modeled physically using SolidWorks. The model is then exported to the Simulink environment to form a Simscape model for simulation and test purposes. This type of modeling uses a physical grid tactic to model mechanical structures. It requires connection of the physical elements with physical signal converter to define the implicit system dynamics to be modeled. The integration between the SolidWorks and Simscape eliminates the need of deriving the mathematical model and provides a platform for the rapid controller design for the system. State feedback control scheme is proposed, designed, and tuned aiming to maintain the pendulum in the upright place while tracking the desired cart position. Several simulation cases are studied to prove the controller abilities. In order to examine the controller robustness, disturbance rejection and noise attenuation capabilities are also discovered.
Rock Beats the Wall? On Commemorative Practices in Post-Soviet Russia
Authors: Cingerová Nina , Dulebová Irina
Published: May 2020

This paper focuses on the case analysis of the memorial to the victims of state terror – the Wall of Grief (Stena skorbi) – which was unveiled on the eve of the 100th anniversary of the November 7, 1917, coup d’état. Using this example, we have attempted to elaborate a structure for a more complex analysis of the memory of past regimes’ manifestation and to create a methodological base for their comparison. We have based our research on the discourse theory by the so-called Essex School, the social semiotics by Kress, and the procedures of the critical discourse analysis. The procedure that we have considered relevant consists of the following: (a) description of the social context in which the memorial was manifested as a piece of evidence; (b) semiotic analysis of the memorial artifact; (c) analysis of verbal practices, as well as written and spoken texts that “explained” the memorial; and (d) analysis of nonverbal practices, namely, rituals. On the basis of our case study, we have come to the conclusion that when carrying out a semiotic analysis and the analysis of verbal and nonverbal practices in the case of the Russian public discourse, it is especially relevant to pay attention not only to widening vs. narrowing of the chronological framework, generalization vs. concretization, and specification of the traumatic experience but also to the question of framing of the memorial. In regard to the semiotic analysis, the extent of indexicality is considered to be very important in the sense of the bodily connection with an element of the commemorated event that bestows “truthfulness” and authenticity on the memorial. We assume that particularly present-day Russia, where explicit attempts to reinterpret the history of the authoritarian communist state and attempts to instrumentalize the totalitarian period according to the vector of the current political direction may be seen, is a relevant object of this kind of research.
Requirements of the 4th Railway Package Towards Safety Management Systems
Authors: Chruzik Katarzyna , Graboń-Chałupczak Marzena
Published: May 2020

In accordance with the new requirements of rail law, from June 2020, a railway undertaking or rail infrastructure manager applying for a single safety certificate/ authorization should demonstrate compliance with the relevant requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS) set out in the Commission delegated regulation (UE) 2018/762. To this end, he should provide proof to the national safety authority or, where applicable, to the European Union Agency for Railway Safety, of the establishment of a safety management system in accordance with Art. 9 of Directive (EU) 2016/798. According to Regulation, the organization should describe the scope of the safety management system, indicating which parts of the business are covered by it, considering legal requirements. The publication attempts to identify necessary changes and additions to hitherto functioning SMS.
Decision Trees in the Tests of Artillery Igniters
Authors: Ampuła Dariusz
Published: May 2020

The article addressed the method for building decision trees paying attention to the binary character of the tree structure. The methodology for building our decision tree for KW-4 igniters was presented. It involves determining features of tested igniters and applied predictors, which are necessary to create the correct model of the tree. The classification tree was built based on the possessed test results, determining the adopted post-diagnostic decision as the qualitative independent variable. The schema of the resultant classification tree and the full structure of this tree together with the results in end nodes were shown. The obtained graphic and tabular sequence of the designed tree was characterized, and the prediction accuracy was evaluated on the basis of the resultant matrix of incorrect classifications. The quality of the resultant predictive model was assessed on the basis of the chosen examples by means of the ‘ROC’ curve and the graph of the cumulative value of increase coefficient.
Reliability Approach to Resilience of Critical Infrastructure Impacted by Operation Process
Authors: Magryta Beata
Published: May 2020

The paper focuses on a critical infrastructure reliability and resilience to its operation process and particularly is devoted to critical infrastructure reliability and resilience indicators. First, the model of critical infrastructure reliability without considering outside impacts is proposed and applied to determine the port oil terminal reliability indicators. In the next step, the operation impact model of critical infrastructure reliability is created and applied to reliability and resilience analysis of the port oil terminal. The comparison of the port oil terminal critical infrastructure reliability indicators without considering outside impacts with indicators considering impact of its operation process is performed. A significant influence of the operation process on the port oil terminal reliability is proved.
Monte Carlo Simulation Approach to Reliability Analysis of Complex Systems
Authors: Dąbrowska Ewa
Published: May 2020

The article presents new results concerned with general procedures and algorithms to assess the reliability of complex systems with various reliability structures. The analytical method and based on it the simulation method were used to estimate the reliability characteristics of the port grain transportation system. Finally, the general simulation algorithm was developed to evaluate the reliability characteristics of ageing complex systems. In this case, the systems operating processes were described by any distributions of sojourn times in operation states and the reliability functions of their components were modified in such a way that these components are not characterized by a “lack of memory”. The application of this algorithm has been illustrated by the results for exemplary complex two-state systems.
Effect of electromagnetic field exposure on mouse brain morphological and histopathological profiling
Authors: Zymantiene Judita , Juozaitiene Vida , Zelvyte Rasa , Oberauskas Vaidas , Spancerniene Ugne , Sederevicius Antanas , Aniuliene Albina
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Mobile phones (MP) and other electronic and communication devices that are used daily expose users to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and contribute to an increasing incidence of neurological disorders. Brain tissue is the closest organ to the MP as it operates, thus the influence of MP radiation on brain tissue is of particular concern, although research is still inconclusive. The present study investigated the possible effect of an EMF (1,350–1,375 megahertz (MHz)) from an MP on morphological and histopathological profiles in the mouse brain.

Material and methods

Healthy BALB/c mice were assigned to three equal groups (a control and two experimental groups, n = 10 each). Experimental mice were exposed to EMFs continuously for 72 h, those of experimental group I to a 1,350 MHz field at a specific absorption rate (SAR) of 4.0 W/kg, and group II to a 1,375 MHz field EMF at an SAR of 4.0 W/kg. Brain segmentation and histopathological analysis were applied to detect changes in the morphometric parameters of the brain lobes and identify pathological lesions, respectively.

Results

Histopathology results revealed shrinkage of pyramidal neurons, presence of mild perivascular and perineural oedema, and some vacuolation of neurons and glial cells derived from mouse great hemispheres. The lesions also included reduction of Purkinje cells, vacuolisation of neurons and glial cells, and interstitial oedema in the cerebellum.

Conclusion

MP distance of 3 cm from the cage may induce appreciable morphological changes in mouse brain structures; therefore, more comprehensive research is essential for assessment of safe distance. These pronounced effects may interfere with the results of laboratory tests on murine experimental models in veterinary or biomedical research.
Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle in the Irkutsk Region
Authors: Zakharova Olga , Toropova Nadezhda , Burova Olga , Titov Ilya , Meltsov Ivan , Blokhin Andrey
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) is a rare, under-explored lethal viral infection of cattle with gammaherpesvirus aetiological agents. Most often, the disease occurs on farms where cattle and sheep are kept together. However, other trigger mechanisms and environmental factors contribute. This study investigates the causation of MCF.

Material and Methods

An outbreak of MCF occurred in June - August 2017 in Kharchev village in Irkutsk Oblast, Russia. In this paper, we provide epidemiological (sanitary status of pastures, watering places, and premises) and weather data during the outbreak, and descriptions of the clinical signs and post-mortem changes in cattle. The virus was detected and isolated from pathological material samples and identified by molecular methods.

Results

Extreme weather conditions, mixed-herd cattle and sheep farming, and unsatisfactory feed quality contributed to the outbreak. A virus related to herpesvirus OvHV2 was isolated and typed (MCF/Irkutsk/2017). Phylogenetic analysis showed its close genetic relationship to isolates from cattle and sheep in Germany, USA, and the Netherlands.

Conclusion

Sporadic outbreaks of MCF caused by biotic and abiotic factors together are typical for the Russian Federation, and the Irkutsk outbreak epitomised this. Temperature anomalies caused pasture depletion, resulting in feed and water deficiency for grazing animals and dehydration and acidosis. Heat stress in animals ultimately led to the occurrence of MCF in the herd.
Monitoring of corrosive environment aggressiveness and development of a sensor for monitoring of the water film in exposure chamber
Authors: Bureš R. , Rak P. , Stoulil J.
Published: May 2020

Exposure of copper in corrosive environment is possible way, how to obtain artificial patina. Various solutions based on chloride, ammonia or polysulfide are commonly use in this purpose. Furthermore, it appears that the patina is also formed in an environment with an increased concentration of SO2 in the atmosphere. This procedure was tested in a small (30 l) exposure chamber, where the aggressiveness of the environment was monitored and where the effect of alternating the condensation and drying phases was shown to be positive. Based on this experiment, a 2 m3 pilot chamber was designed for which a water film sensor was developed and tested to ensure drying of the object surface. Monitoring of the aggressiveness of the environment showed that the pH and SO2 concentrations in the atmosphere are stable after approximately 5 hours and the ideal input SO2 concentration is 17.7 g m-3 at which the pH stabilizes at 2.7-3. By recording the voltage variation on the sensor, it was possible to monitor the formation and drying of the water film during the cycling of the condensation and drying phases.
Development of corrosion flaws for the production of realistic test specimens
Authors: Hodač J. , Fulín Z. , Mareš P. , Veselá J. , Chocholatý O.
Published: May 2020

To produce realistic test specimens with realistic flaws, it is necessary to develop appropriate procedure for corrosion flaw production. Tested specimens are made from steels commonly used in power plants, such as carbon steels, stainless steels and their dissimilar weldments. In this study, corrosion damage from NaCl water solution and NaCl water mist are compared. Specimens were tested with and without mechanical bending stress. The corrosion processes produced plane, pitting and galvanic corrosion. On dissimilar weldments galvanic corrosion was observed and resulted to the deepest corrosion damage. Deepest corrosion flaws were formed on welded samples. The corrosion rate was also affected by the solution flow in a contact with the specimens, which results in a corrosion-erosive wear. Produced flaws are suitable as natural crack initiators or as realistic corrosion flaws in test specimens.
Postmortal Issues of Smolensk Tragedy Against the Obligations of Art. 2 of European Convention on Human Rights
Authors: Wedeł-Domaradzka Agnieszka
Published: May 2020

The main aim of the study is to analyze posthumous problems that concern the victims of the Smolensk disaster in the context of positive obligations of the state. The first element of the analysis will concern the standards of dealing with the bodies of disaster victims as soon as they occur. The second aspect will include the obligation to notify of death along with other obligations and information on victims. Then, issues related to the transport of corpses and the opening of coffins will be described, and finally the regulations regarding uninterrupted burial. The analysis of the above issue presented in the work will be carried out taking into account regional human rights protection standards and the ECtHR’s judicial practice. Both soft and hard law standards will be included in the analysis.
Responsibility of Russia and Poland for the Smolensk Catastrophe from the Perspective of European Convention on Human Rights
Authors: Jasudowicz Tadeusz
Published: May 2020

Smolensk Catastrophe is not only about the question of clarifying facts, but also the one of responsibility stemming from them on the grounds of European Convention on Human Rights, and being more precise from its art. 2: The right to life. The article includes both negative obligations, such as the prohibition of depriving an individual of life, as well as positive ones regarding the establishing of effective regulations in criminal law, providing legal and administrative procedures aiming at e.g. preventing the acts of life deprivation, including the ones referring to procedural obligations concerning the conduct of a proper and effective investigation. Responsibility is shared by both parties of the Convention: Russia and Poland. The first of them ought to be responsible for depriving the Catastrophe casualties of their lives, not only in the event of an attack and explosion, but also in the context of TU 154 renovation, the manner of organizing the visit, dividing it between 7th and 10th April 2010, the level of securing the quality of service at the North Smolensk airport, conducting the investigation and keeping the evidence (the wreck, black box, etc.), which made it impossible for Poland to conduct the effective investigation. Poland, on the other hand, is responsible for the lack of applying appropriate legal and administrative procedures, as well as preventive and controlling measures, inappropriate conduct of aviation investigation by Military Prosecutor Office, as well as the lack of an effective investigation indicated in art. 2 of the Convention. Poland ought to be held responsible also for the manner of organizing the visit. The responsibility of a state on the basis of the Convention includes detecting, pursuing and punishing individuals responsible for actions and cessations determined as a punishable offence of negligence and not fulfilling ones duties. Therefore there certainly was the situation of breaching the material and procedural obligations stemming from art. 2 of the Convention.
Crevasse splays within a lignite seam at the Tomisławice opencast mine near Konin, central Poland: architecture, sedimentology and depositional model
Authors: Chomiak Lilianna
Published: May 2020

The present article focuses predominantly on sandy deposits that occur within the Middle Miocene lignite seam at the Tomisławice opencast mine, owned by the Konin Lignite Mine. As a result of mining activity, these siliciclastics were available for direct observation in 2015–2016. They are situated between two lignite benches over a distance of ~500 m in the lower part and ~200 m in the higher part of the exploitation levels. The maximum thickness of these sandy sediments, of a lenticular structure in a S–N cross section, is up to 1.8 m. With the exception of a thin lignite intercalation, these siliciclastics comprise mainly by fine-grained and well-sorted sands, and only their basal and top layers are enriched with silt particles and organic matter. Based on a detailed analysis of the sediments studied (i.e., their architecture and textural-structural features), I present a discussion of their genesis and then propose a model of their formation. These siliciclastics most likely formed during at least two flood events in the overbank area of a Middle Miocene meandering or anastomosing river. Following breaching of the natural river levee, the sandy particles (derived mainly from the main river channel and levees) were deposited on the mire (backswamp) surface in the form of crevasse splays. After each flooding event, vegetation developed on the top of these siliciclastics; hence, two crevasse-splay bodies (here referred to as the older and younger) came into existence. As a result, the first Mid-Polish lignite seam at the Tomisławice opencast mine is currently divided in two by relatively thick siliciclastics, which prevents a significant portion of this seam from being used for industrial purposes.
Role of Balancing Markets in Dealing with Future Challenges of System Adequacy Caused by Energy Transmission
Authors: Junghans G. , Silis A. , Marcina K. , Ertmanis K.
Published: May 2020

The national energy and climate plans developed by the Baltic States for the period up to 2030 foresee a significant increase in the share of renewable energy in final consumption. Therefore, the development of wind, solar and distributed generation in the Baltic electricity system is expected to increase significantly in the next decade and, thus, the need for balancing capacity will increase. The planned synchronisation of the Baltic power system with the power system of Continental Europe in 2025 will also increase the need for frequency restoration and balancing reserves. At the same time, the shutdown of uncompetitive thermal power plants in the Baltics reduces centralized generation capacity. If this trend continues, the risk of electricity supply shortages will increase in the future. Therefore, it is important to identify activities that help mitigate this risk and take timely actions.
Allele and Genotype Frequencies of the Κappa-Casein (CSN3) Locus in Macedonian Holstein-Friesian Cattle
Authors: Adamov Nikola , Atanasov Branko , Ilievska Ksenija , Nikolovski Martin , Dovenska Monika , Petkov Vladimir , Dovenski Toni
Published: May 2020

The bovine kappa-casein (κ-CN) is a phospho-protein with 169 amino acids encoded by the CSN3 gene. The two most common gene variants in the HF breed are CSN3*A and CSN3*B while CSN3*E has been found with lower frequency. The aim of this study was to optimize a laboratory method for genotyping of these three alleles as well as to determine their genotype and allele frequencies in the HF cattle population in the Republic of North Macedonia. Genomic DNA was extracted from full blood from 250 cows. The target DNA sequence was amplified with newly designed pair of primers and the products were subjected to enzymatic restriction with HindIII and HaeIII endonucleases. Genotype determination was achieved in all animals. The primers successfully amplified a fragment of 458 bp and the digestion of this fragment with both endonucleases enabled differentiation of five different genotypes with the following observed frequencies: AA (0.39), AB (0.29), BB (0.16), AE (0.10), and BE (0.06). The estimated allele frequencies were: CSN3*A (0.584), CSN3*B (0.336) and CSN3*E (0.08). The observed genotype frequencies differed significantly (P<0.01) from those that would be expected under HW equilibrium, while the fixation index (F=0.17) indicated moderate heterozygosity deficiency. Nevertheless, the CSN3*B allele was present with relatively high frequency which should be used to positively select for its carriers, since increasing its frequency could help to improve the rheological properties of the milk intended for cheese production.
A Modified SDS – Based Method Applied for Extraction of High-Quality DNA from Raw Corn and Roasted Soybean
Authors: Sabriu-Haxhijaha Arita , Ilievska Gordana , Stojkovski Velimir , Blagoevska Katerina
Published: May 2020

The probability of contamination of non-transgenic varieties with genetically modified (GM) products increase as a result of global expansion of areas sown with transgenic crops. DNA-based methods as accurate, efficient and reliable methods are preferable for detection of GM material in raw or highly processed foods. Isolation of high quality DNA with a suitable and efficient DNA extraction protocol is crucial for getting precise results in DNA amplification. In this study, we performed modifications of previously known Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)-based DNA extraction method regarding the incubation period, DNA pellet washing and addition of organic solvent extraction, to improve DNA quality and to reduce costs. Raw corn kernels and roasted soybean seed were used as samples. DNA was extracted following three protocols, modifications of Edwards protocol. The type of detergent used in raw corn sample did not cause significant effects on extracted DNA yield and purity, while in roasted soybean samples the 2% (w/v) SDS lysis buffer gave the highest DNA yield. The additional incubation step raised the DNA yield from raw corn for 121%, while the purest DNA from soybean sample was obtained using organic solvent extraction. Electrophoretic determination of DNA integrity showed varying degree of DNA smearing from roasted soybean. Contrary, all extraction protocols used on raw corn kernels produced a high molecular weight DNA. Thus, our in-house DNA extraction protocol is as efficient but more cost effective compared to commercial kits and can be used for raw corn, while the protocol for roasted soybean needs further improvement.
The Use of Social Media by Technology Transfer Offices in Marketing Communications
Authors: Milczarek Sławomir
Published: May 2020

The article presents the issue of marketing communication conducted through social media by CTT, affiliated to The Polish Association of Centers for Technology Transfer (PACTT). The objective of this publication is to assess CTT’s use of currently popular social networking sites in the context of communication with Generation Y, i.e. the generation of successors and managers in Polish enterprises. The study was conducted in August 2019 using data collected through critical analysis of secondary sources in the form of websites and social media profiles of all 64 CTTs included in PACTT. The research confirmed that the entities established to find a common ground on communication between science and business, use the opportunities created by social media online communication to a very limited scope.
Evaluation of on-Line Marketing Communication of Scientific Units in the Context of Its Cooperation with Companies from the Lodz Region
Authors: Milczarek Sławomir , Grębosz-Krawczyk Magdalena
Published: May 2020

Marketing communication of scientific units has gained a lot of importance at the time of the emergence and development of the hypermedia environment, in particular the Web 2.0 era. The objective of this article is to assess the degree of use of the website by scientific units in the context of potential cooperation with companies. The article presents the results of research conducted in the period 09.2017–03.2018 using the method of critical analysis of secondary sources in the form of websites of all parameterized scientific units located in the Lodz region. Research of the content of websites of scientific units confirmed that scientific units do not use the available spectrum of marketing communication tools in cooperation with companies and that they do not use the language of market benefits in the description of knowledge being the subject of commercialization.
Effect of vacuum conditions on stability and crystallization of cobalt based amorphous alloy
Authors: Yazici Ziya Ozgur
Published: May 2020

The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of moderate vacuum conditions (10 Pa, 1 × 103 Pa and 2 × 104 Pa) on glass forming ability, thermal stability and aging behavior of Co42Cu1Fe20Ta5:5B26:5Si5 amorphous samples in terms of size and distribution of crystalline precipitates. The thinnest parts (300 μm) of the wedge-shaped samples were amorphous for all vacuum conditions, and they had similar compositional, structural and thermal characteristics. However, they represented different microstructural features after heat treatments at 950 K and 1100 K. The same phases precipitated in all samples but the amount and the size of the precipitates increased as the pressure was raised to the normal atmospheric value. The differences in the glass forming ability and the microstructure due to aging are considered to originate from lower thermal characteristics, such as relaxation and reduced glass temperature as well as γ parameter, resulting from the poor vacuum pressure used in the production process. The differences in the microstructures and hardness values caused by heat treatments have been observed.