bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Place of progestogenic oral contraceptives in gynecological practice
Authors: Kuznetsova I. V.
Published: November 2019

The review of the literature presents data on the possible risks of using combined hormonal contraception and the possibilities of prescribing purely progestogenic contraception as an alternative to the use of combined means. Progestogen contraceptives include a group of agents with different routes of administration, doses and characteristics of progestins, which have a number of differences in the ratio of benefits and risks, availability, reversibility and other properties of contraception. Particular attention is paid to purely progestogenic tablets containing desogestrel, as a means equivalent in effectiveness to combination contraceptives, but safer. Safety issues are considered in the context of the use of breastfeeding women, as well as from the standpoint of the risk of arterial and venous thrombosis. The issues of non-contraceptive positive effects of purely progestogenic contraceptives are covered.
Vitamin A in obstetrics: basic and clinical research
Authors: Gromova O. A. , Torshin I. Yu. , Tetruashvili N. K. , Kodentsova V. M. , Rudakov K. V.
Published: November 2019

Vitamin A (retinoids) is a hormonal growth factor for which there are corresponding receptors (retinoid receptors) and which is fundamentally necessary for the growth and the differentiation of the cells of the placenta and the fetus. During pregnancy, the need for the vitamin A increases thus requiring a balanced approach to the dosage of the vitamin A. The molecular and the clinical effects of the physiological doses of the vitamin A during pregnancy and in the fetus depend on the availability of other vitamins and trace elements. Supplements oif the vitamin A in combinations with other essential micronutrients contribute to (1) reducing the risk of cleft lip/palate, diaphragmatic hernia, neural tube defects, hypertrophic stenosis of the pylorus and other vitamin A-dependent malformations, (2) normalization of birth weight, (3) expression of lung surfactant proteins, prevention of the bronchopulmonary dysplasia and of the chronic lung diseases (bronchiolitis, bronchitis, bronchial asthma, pneumonia) at an early age, (4) reduction in the measles mortality, (5) the child birth the best anthropometric parameters and with a high Apgar score, (6) preventing the development of allergy in children, (7) preventing anemia, (8) improving cognitive and behavioral development of children.
Bevacizumab efficacy in treatment of brain radiation necrosis
Authors: Absalyamova O. V. , Kobiakov G. L. , Gutorov S. L. , Vetlova E. R. , Zolotova S. V. , Arutyunov N. V. , Inozemtseva M. V. , Kobiakov N. G.
Published: November 2019

Radiation therapy (RT) plays an important role in treatment of primary and metastatic CNS tumors and some non-neopiastic conditions (arteriovenous malformations, trigeminal neuralgia). Radiation necrosis (RN) is a common adverse effect of RT. Until recently steroid therapy was used as a main treatment regimen for RN. Mechanisms of RN development are not clear; however, it was shown that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a critical role in its formation. A number of surveys showed efficacy of bevacizumab as an anti-VEGF agent in treatment of RN. Radiation necrosis pathogenesis, diagnostics and treatment are summarized in this review.
Oral vinorelbine in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Artamonova E. V.
Published: November 2019

Vinorelbine is one of the standard drugs for the treatment of nonsmall cell lung cancer and is widely used in adjuvant therapy, chemoradiation programs, and in the treatment of common forms of the disease. The developed oral formulation of the drug provides comparable efficacy with much more convenient use. Vinorelbine capsules can be used both in combination with platinum derivatives, and in monotherapy with the possibility of using standard weekly and more frequent metronome dosing regimens. The efficacy and safety of oral vinorelbine has been proven, including for the elderly and debilitated population.
New strategies for diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease: monoclonal antibodies to beta-amyloid
Authors: Pilipovich A. A. , Danilov A. B.
Published: November 2019

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that is the most common cause of dementia. Currently, there are about 46.8 million people with asthma in the world. It is believed that the number of patients with BA doubles almost every 20 years, and the issue of timely treatment and prolongation of the active life of these patients is becoming ever more acute. Nowdays only five drugs have been approved for the treatment of asthma, they include cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists (memantine). Unfortunately, their use provides tempora/y and incomplete symptomatic effect, can be accompanied by side effects and does not shw down the progression of asthma, therefore the development of drugs for more effective treatment of asthma is extremely important. Laboratory and clinical studies suggest that in the near future, AD-therapy will become more focused on disease modification and it is likely that AD will be successfully treated even before significant cognitive impairment develops, at the presymptom-atic or preclinical stages. The main therapeutic goal of these studies is the treatment of the pathological process (reduction of β-amyloidosis or reduction of the formation of neurofibrillaiy tangles) to prevent subsequent neurodegeneration and possible cognitive decline. Currently, despite all sorts of problems, immunotherapy with the introduction of monoclonal antibodies to β-amyloid is considered one of the most promising approaches to reducing the degree of neurodegeneration.
Premenstrual dysphoric disorders in women of Russian Federation and risk factors for their development. Epidemiological study of1,326 women
Authors: Loginova K. B. , Dyukova G. M. , Dobrokhotova Yu. E. , Danilov A. B.
Published: November 2019

The epidemiology of premenstrual dysphoric disorders (PMDD) and the risk factors for PMDD in women of the Russian Federation are still not fully resolved. Objective: to assess the prevalence of PMDD among women in the Russian Federation and to identify risk factors for PMDD. Materials and methods. An anonymous questioning using the questionnaire was carried out by 1326 women of the reproductive period of different regions of the Russian Federation: Moscow (880), Ural (150), Rostov (146) and Novosibirsk (150) regions. Inclusion criteria were: age of 15-45 years, regular menstrual cycle of 25-35 days, lack of psychiatric diagnoses in history. The results. It was found that 15.6 % of Russian women meet the criteria for PMDD. The primary age of the first appearance of PMDD symptoms is 15-19 years. The statistically significant risks of developing PMDD are ages 15-24 years, education at a higher education institution, lack of regular sexual life, history of neurocirculatory dystonia, complication of heredity in neuropsychiatric diseases and premenstrual syndrome, painful periods and complications in childbirth or abortion. Conclusions: the high prevalence of PMDD (15.6 %) in young women of the reproductive period, the presence of psychosocial and biological risk factors for PMDD requires the development of a modified tool for the early diagnosis of PMDD for general practitioners, obstetrician gynecologists, and psychiatrists.
Features of endothelial dysfunction in essential hypertension
Authors: Zimnitskaya O. V. , Petrova M. M.
Published: November 2019

This review was described in detail the mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction development in patients with essential hypertension, lists the risk factors leading to endothelial dysfunction, diagnostic markers of endothelial dysfunction, and gives an idea of endothelial progenitor cells that can regenerate damaged endothelium. The data of the authors’ own studies were presented evaluating the severity of endothelial dysfunction with the help of such markers as sPECAM-1. The authors were conducted studies of endothelial progenitor cells in patients with different stages and degrees of arterial hypertension.
Risk predictors of arterial hypertension development in population of Mountain Shoriya of various ethnical origins
Authors: Mulerova T. A. , Ogarkov M. Yu. , Barbarash O. L.
Published: November 2019

1409 people (901 Shors, 508 non-indigenous people) from remote villages of Mountain Shoriya (Orton and Ust-Kabyrsa) and urban-type settlement Sheregesh took part in the survey. In Shors, the risk of developing hypertension was determined by elevated levels of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol, violation of carbohydrate metabolism, obesity, including its abdominal type, the family anamnesis of early cardiovascular diseases, and a carriage of prognostically unfavorable genotypes D/D and C/C of the corresponding genes ACE and AGTR 1 candidates; in the cohort of non-indigenous ethnos-elevated levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides, obesity, abdominal obesity, the family anamnesis of early cardiovascular diseases, a carrier of the minor genotype C/C of the AGTR 1 gene
Apoptosis and proliferation ofperipheral blood T-cells as alternative processes in pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus type 1
Authors: Lugovaya A. V. , Kalinina N. M. , Mitreikin V. Ph. , Kovaltchuk Yu. P. , Artyomova A. V. , Belolipetskaya Y. R. , Gavrilova E. A. , Ruzanova O. S. , Emanuel V. S. , Emanuel Y. V. , Emanuel V. L.
Published: November 2019

Apoptosis, along with proliferation, is a form of lymphocyte response to activating stimuli. In the early stages of cell differentiation, the apoptotic response prevails and it results to the formation of tolerance to inductor antigen. Mature lymphocytes proliferate in response to stimulation and it means the initial stage in the development of the immune response. Since in this case apoptosis and proliferation acts as alternative processes, their ratio can serve as a measure of the effectiveness of the cellular response to activating signals. The resistance of autoreactive T-cells to apoptosis is the main key point in the development of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Autoreactive T-cells migrates from the bloodstream to the islet tissue of the pancreas and take an active part in b cells destruction. The resistance of autoreactive effector T-cells to apoptosis may suggest their high proliferative potential. Therefore, the comparative evaluation of apoptosis and proliferation of peripheral blood lymphocytes can give a more complete picture of their functional state and thus will help to reveal the causes of ineffective peripheral blood T-ceiis apoptosis in patients with T1DM and will help to understand more deeply the pathogenesis of the disease. in this article, the features of proliferative response of peripheral blood T-cells in patients with T1DM and in individuals with high risk of developing T1DM have been studied. Apoptosis of T-cell subpopulations has been investigated. The correlation between the apoptotic markers and the intensity of spontaneous and activation- induced in vitro T-cells proliferation of was revealed. it was determined, that autoreactive peripheral blood T-cells were resistant to apoptosis and demonstrated the increased proliferative potential in patients with T1DM and in individuals with high risk of developing T1DM.
Sepsis and acute kidney injury as two-way street: values of biomarkers
Authors: Velkov V. V.
Published: November 2019

The brief review, dedicated to Septic Acute Injury (S-AKI) - the syndrome simultaneously corresponding to criteria of sepsis and acute kidney Injury. Sepsis or AKI are diagnosed 30-50 % of critical patients. Sepsis is promoting the developing of AKI and AKI is promoting the development of sepsis. Morbidity and lethality in S-AKI is higher than that is sepsis and in AKI separately. The main mechanisms of the development of: a) AKI in sepsis - the toxic septic blood containing huge amounts of proinflammatory factors damage the renal tubules resulting tubular disfunction; b) sepsis in AKI - uremia is damaging distal organs and functions of immune systems which provoke sepsis development. For early diagnostics of S-AKI in patients admitting in critical care units the simultaneous measurements and monitoring of sepsis and kidney biomarkers are to be made. The problems of such measurements is that AKI decreases the clearance of septic markers and their levels are increasing in noninfectious conditions. From the other hand in septic conditions inflammation can increase the levels of renal markers independently of renal pathologies. In general in sepsis, AKI and in S-AKI the increased levels of sepsis markers reflect simultaneously severity of infectious inflammation and of renal disfunction, and kidney markers reflect simultaneously severity of renal disfunction and of infectious inflammation. The correction of cut-off values of septic markers used for S-AKI diagnostics must be based on the degree of severity of renal disfunction in critical patients.
Features of application of Collapan-L in dental implantation (clinical example)
Authors: Kolganov I. N. , Ivaschenko A. V. , Yablokov A. E. , Fedyaev I. M. , Arkhipov V. Ya.
Published: November 2019

A high percentage of patients with a diagnosis of partial absence of teeth often have a deficiency in the bone tissue of the alveolar ridge, which, in turn, makes it difficult, and in some cases makes it impossible, to impose dental implants. At the moment there are a number of materials involved in the restoration of bone tissue. These include osteoinductive, osteoconductive and indifferent materials. The authors note that osteoconductive materials are the most effective of these groups for bone tissue repair. A prominent representative is the drug Collapan-L. Purpose. To determine the features of the clinical use of the drug Collapan-L during dental implantation. Materials and methods. Patient P., 49 years old, complained of partial absence of teeth in the upper jaw. After examining the computed tomographic images, it was decided to perform a closed sinus lift operation with the use of osteoplastic material Collapan-L. Conclusion. In the course of our research, it was found that the effect of Collapan-L on the defects of bone structures allows to reduce the postoperative effects, such as pain, swelling, allows for quick and high-quality regeneration of bone tissue.
Correction of functional constipation in patients with limited mobility after stroke
Authors: Turchina M. S. , Bukreeva M. V. , Korolyova L. Yu. , Annenkova Zh. E. , Polyakov L. G.
Published: November 2019

Currently, the problem of early rehabilitation of stroke patients is important, since in terms of the prevalence of cerebrovascular diseases and disability after suffering a stroke, Russia is one of the first places in the world. The complex of medical rehabilitation of such patients should provide for the early and most complete restoration of all body functions, patient education for lost skills, re-socialization of the patient and improvement of the quality of life. One of the factors contributing to a significant reduction in the quality of life after a stroke is the development of chronic constipation. The article reflects the modern methods of correction of chronic constipation in patients with limited mobility.
Eyelid xanthelasma and its management
Authors: Surkichin S. I. , Gryazeva N. V.
Published: November 2019

The article presents an overview of modern methods of treatment of eyelid xanthelasm: systemic treatment, local treatment-peeling with trichloroacetic acid, cryotherapy, intraocular administration of pingiangmycin, laser removal, radiowave removal on the Surgitron device with a frequency of 4 MHz, as well as a guide to choosing the appropriate method.
Development of information panels for laboratory diagnosis of myocardial infarction risk in patients with stable ischemic heart disease
Authors: Kotova Yu. A. , Zuykova A. A. , Strakhova N. V. , Krasnorutskaya O. N.
Published: November 2019

The high incidence of stable coronary heart disease, the increasing frequency of myocardial infarction, disability and mortality determine the relevance of the search for new risk markers and laboratory criteria for predicting this severe complication. The aim of the study was to develop an information panel for diagnosing the risk of myocardial infarction in patients with stable coronary heart disease, including significant generally accepted and potentially possible new laboratory parameters characterizing various pathogenetic links of coronary atherosclerosis. The study included 168 patients who were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 - with a history of myocardial infarction, Group 2 - without a history of myocardial infarction. In addition to the standard laboratory and instrumental examination, all patients were identified parameters of endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and chaperone activity as potential markers of myocardial infarction in patients with stable coronary heart disease. Assessment of the risk of myocardial infarction in patients with stable coronary heart disease was carried out using a logical and mathematical model, which combined the most informative laboratory indicators of oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and chaperone activity, which are important in the occurrence and progression of coronary atherosclerosis, according to the results of preliminary comparative and correlation analysis. The basis for the development of the information panel was the method of decision trees. The study confirmed the relationship between the severity of coronary atherosclerosis and the occurrence of myocardial infarction. Comparative analysis of the selected groups of patients showed a higher level of oxidative stress, serum homocysteine concentrations and lower values of chaperone activity in Group 1. In patients with a history of myocardial infarction, C-reactive protein was significantly higher than in Group 2, indicating a more pronounced inflammatory response in patients with large atherosclerotic lesions. The study suggests the possibility of using mathematical information panels based on decision trees as a system for assessing the risk of acute myocardial infarction in patients with stable coronary heart disease. As a result of the analysis of the obtained model, laboratory biochemical factors of high risk of myocardial infarction were identified. Such factors were chaperone activity, serum homocysteine level, serum C-reactive protein concentration and superoxide dismutase activity.
Factors Affecting the Selection of Institutional Delivery among Tribal Women in Bangladesh
Authors: Karim A.N.M. Rezaul
Published: November 2019

Background: Safe maternity is a global issue with the ongoing discussion of ways to reduce mortality. This problem is prevalent among women from low-income countries such as Bangladesh. Hence, this study evaluated the factors affecting delivery practices among tribal women in Bangladesh Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). Method: This is an analysis of cross-sectional research.  To achieve the sample size of 556 married women, a convenient sampling technique was used. In a semi-structured questionnaire, data were collected. Associations were tested using Chi-square ( ) tests, and multivariate regression analysis was applied to elicit results from the data. Result: Result from the present study shows that most deliveries (66%) occur at home. Of this quantity, 50% of births were facilitated by untrained traditional midwives, 12% by trained conventional birth caregivers, and 4% by relatives and neighbors. Wealth index, place of dwelling, women’s educational level, age at first childbirth, range to health care, and profession of the husband have all significantly contributed to the approach to delivery. Conclusion: This study concludes that institutional delivery (34%) is poor among tribal women of Bangladesh. Factors limiting the adoption of institutional delivery by these tribal women should be managed adequately via awareness campaigns and improving the socio-economic status of the tribal people of CHT.

Keywords: Delivery care; Institutional delivery; Choice of the birthplace; Skilled birth attendant (SBA); Traditional birth attendants (TBA); Trained birth attendants (TTBA); Home delivery
Tensor-Based Algorithms for Image Classification
Authors: Klus Stefan , Gelß Patrick
Published: November 2019

Interest in machine learning with tensor networks has been growing rapidly in recent years. We show that tensor-based methods developed for learning the governing equations of dynamical systems from data can, in the same way, be used for supervised learning problems and propose two novel approaches for image classification. One is a kernel-based reformulation of the previously introduced multidimensional approximation of nonlinear dynamics (MANDy), the other an alternating ridge regression in the tensor train format. We apply both methods to the MNIST and fashion MNIST data set and show that the approaches are competitive with state-of-the-art neural network-based classifiers.
Combination of Ascophyllum nodosum Extract and Humic Acid Improve Early Growth and Reduces Post-Harvest Loss of Lettuce and Spinach
Authors: Sandepogu Monica , Shukla Pushp Sheel , Asiedu Samuel , Yurgel Svetlana , Prithiviraj Balakrishnan
Published: November 2019

Leafy vegetables like lettuce and spinach are prone to significant post-harvest losses during handling and storage. The pre-harvest treatment of crops with biostimulants offers a sustainable strategy for reducing post-harvest losses. Earlier studies focused on the effect of plant biostimulants applied individually. In this study, we studied the efficacy of a combined application of two commonly used plant biostimulants: Ascophyllum nodosum extract (ANE) and humic acid (HA). Interestingly, the combination of both biostimulants improved early growth of lettuce and spinach compared to ANE and HA alone. Among the combinations used in this study, 0.25% ANE + 0.2% HA produced significantly higher fresh and dry biomass in lettuce and spinach compared to the other treatments and the control. Pre-harvest treatment of combination of 0.25% ANE and 0.2% HA significantly reduced the loss of fresh biomass during post-harvest storage. The combination of 0.25% ANE and 0.2% HA reduced lipid peroxidation during storage with an increase in total ascorbate, phenolic, and antioxidant capacity of spinach and lettuce. These results suggest that a combination of ANE and HA reduces post-harvest losses of spinach and lettuce more effectively than when applied individually.
Silicon Compensates Phosphorus Deficit-Induced Growth Inhibition by Improving Photosynthetic Capacity, Antioxidant Potential, and Nutrient Homeostasis in Tomato
Authors: Zhang Yi , Liang Ying , Zhao Xin , Jin Xiu , Hou Leiping , Shi Yu , Ahammed Golam
Published: November 2019

Phosphorus (P) deficiency in soils is a major problem for sustainable crop production worldwide. Silicon (Si) is a beneficial element that can promote plant growth, development and responses to stresses. However, the effect of Si on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) growth, photosynthesis and mineral uptake under P deficit conditions and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we showed that low P (LP) supply inhibited tomato growth as revealed by significantly decreased fresh and dry weights of shoots and impaired root morphological traits. LP-induced growth inhibition was associated with decreased photosynthetic pigment content, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance, transpiration rate and water use efficiency. However, exogenous Si application alleviated LP-induced decreases in growth and physiological parameters. In particular, Si increased Pn by 65.2%, leading to a significantly increased biomass accumulation. Biochemical quantification and in situ visualization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) showed increased ROS (O2−· and H2O2) accumulation under LP stress, which eventually elevated lipid peroxidation. Interestingly, exogenous Si decreased ROS and malondialdehyde levels by substantially increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase. In addition, Si increased concentrations of osmoregulatory substances, such as proline, soluble sugar, soluble proteins, free amino acids, and organic acids under LP stress. Analysis of major element concentrations revealed that exogenous Si application under LP stress not only increased Si uptake but also enhanced the concentrations of most essential elements (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, and Mn) in different tissues (roots, leaves, and stems). These results reveal that Si mitigates LP stress by improving photosynthetic capacity, antioxidant potential, and nutrient homeostasis and that it can be used for agronomic management of vegetable crops in P-deficient soils.
Nondestructive Estimation of the Chlorophyll b of Apple Fruit by Color and Spectral Features Using Different Methods of Hybrid Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Abbaspour-Gilandeh Yousef , Sabzi Sajad , Hernández-Hernández Mario , Hernández-Hernández Jose Luis , Azadshahraki Farzad
Published: November 2019

Nondestructive estimation of the various physicochemical features of food such as fruits and vegetables will create a dramatic development in the food industry. The reason for this development is that the estimation is non-destructive, online, and most importantly fast. Regarding the advantages, various researchers have focused on how to undertake non-destructive estimation of the physicochemical features of various nutrients. Three main goals were pursued in this article. These are: 1. Nondestructive estimation of the chlorophyll b content of red delicious apple using color features and hybrid artificial neural network-cultural algorithm (ANN-CA), 2. Nondestructive estimation of chlorophyll b content of red delicious apple using spectral data (around a range of 680 nm) and hybrid Artificial Neural Network-biogeography-based algorithm (ANN-BBO), 3. Nondestructive estimation of the chlorophyll b content of red delicious apple using different groups of selective spectra by the hybrid artificial neural network-differential evolution algorithm (ANN-DA). In each of these methods, 1000 replications were performed to evaluate the reliability of various hybrids of the artificial neural network. Finally, the results indicated that the average determination coefficient in 1000 replications for the hybrid artificial neural network, the cultural algorithm, and the hybrid artificial neural network, the biogeography-based optimization algorithm, was 0.882 and 0.932, respectively. Also, the results showed that the highest value of the coefficient of determination among the different groups of effective features is related to the group of features with 10 spectra. The coefficient of determination in this case was 0.93.
Application of Semi-Empirical Ventilation Models in A Mediterranean Greenhouse with Opposing Thermal and Wind Effects. Use of Non-Constant Cd (Pressure Drop Coefficient Through the Vents) and Cw (Wind Effect Coefficient)
Authors: López-Martínez Alejandro , Molina-Aiz Francisco D. , Valera-Martínez Diego L. , López-Martínez Javier , Peña-Fernández Araceli , Espinoza-Ramos Karlos E.
Published: November 2019

The present work analyses the natural ventilation of a multi-span greenhouse with one roof vent and two side vents by means of sonic anemometry. Opening the roof vent to windward, one side vent to leeward, and the other side vents to windward (this last vent obstructed by another greenhouse), causes opposing thermal GT (m3 s−1) and wind effects Gw (m3 s−1), as outside air entering the greenhouse through the roof vent circulates downward, contrary to natural convection due to the thermal effect. In our case, the ventilation rate RM (h−1) in a naturally ventilated greenhouse fits a second order polynomial with wind velocity uo (RM = 0.37 uo2 + 0.03 uo + 0.75; R2 = 0.99). The opposing wind and thermal effects mean that ventilation models based on Bernoulli’s equation must be modified in order to add or subtract their effects accordingly—Model 1, in which the flow is driven by the sum of two independent pressure fields G M 1 = | G T 2 ± G w 2 | , or Model 2, in which the flow is driven by the sum of two independent fluxes G M 2 = | G T ± G w | . A linear relationship has been obtained, which allows us to estimate the discharge coefficient of the side vents (CdVS) and roof vent (CdWR) as a function of uo [CdVS = 0.028 uo + 0.028 (R2 = 0.92); CdWR = 0.036 uo + 0.040 (R2 = 0.96)]. The wind effect coefficient Cw was determined by applying models M1 and M2 proved not to remain constant for the different experiments, but varied according to the ratio uo/∆Tio0.5 or δ [CwM1 = exp(−2.693 + 1.160/δ) (R2 = 0.94); CwM2 = exp(−2.128 + 1.264/δ) (R2 = 0.98)].
The Growth and Development of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and Bush Basil (Ocimum minimum) Grown under Three Light Regimes in a Controlled Environment
Authors: Aldarkazali Mohammed , Rihan Hail Z. , Carne Demelza , Fuller Michael P.
Published: November 2019

Light is a crucial element for plant growth and production. In areas where natural light is not sufficient for optimal plant growth and production, high pressure sodium (HPS) light sources are widely used. However, HPS lamps are considered not very electrically efficient generating high radiant heat and as a consequence, there has been a lot of interest in replacing HPS lamps with new more efficient lighting sources in the form of light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The effects of three lighting sources (White LED, Blue/Red LED and HPS) on the growth, development and on the essential oil yield and quality of sweet basil and bush basil were investigated. There was a clear advantage to the Blue/Red (452 nm and 632 nm, respectively) LED on virtually all growth and physiological parameters measured for both basil species. The HPS lighting system always performed least effectively in all comparisons. Combining increases in plant yield and increases in oil yield the Blue/Red LED array outperformed the HPS lights by a factor of approximately double, with the white LED being intermediate between these two extremes.
Future Wheat Yield Variabilities and Water Footprints Based on the Yield Sensitivity to Past Climate Conditions
Authors: Ahmad Mirza Junaid , Choi Kyung-Sook , Cho Gun-Ho , Kim Sang-Hyun
Published: November 2019

This article analyzed the wheat yield variabilities and water footprints under projected future climate based on wheat yield sensitivity to past (1980–2017) trends of maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), solar radiation (Rn) and rainfall (P) for the semi-arid condition of Punjab, Pakistan. The past and projected future trends of the climate variables were identical featuring prominent Tmin rise than Tmax accompanied by Rn and P declines. Based on the past influences and the projected future trends of the climate variables, Tmin was the principal driver of wheat yield decline followed by the Tmax, P and Rn. Wheat evapotranspiration and net irrigation water requirement declined due to the influence of both decrease of growing season length and Rn for the first half of 21st-century, and this trend reversed during the second half of 21st-century. These phenomena were caused by different degree of climate warming between the two-time slices. Due to future wheat yield decline and a gradual rise in green water scarcity the blue and grey water footprints rise consistently particularly during 2nd-time slices. CO2 enrichment showed limited mitigation potential of nullifying the warming-induced threats on future wheat yield and water footprints.
Extraction of Antioxidants from Blackberry (Rubus ulmifolius L.): Comparison between Ultrasound- and Microwave-Assisted Extraction Techniques
Authors: Espada-Bellido Estrella , Ferreiro-González Marta , Carrera Ceferino , Palma Miguel , Álvarez José A. , F. Barbero Gerardo , Ayuso Jesús
Published: November 2019

Berries are considered functional food because of their potential health benefits to consumers due to their high concentrations in bioactive compounds. The extraction process of their antioxidant compounds is a crucial step. In this work, ultrasound (UAE) and microwave (MAE) assisted extraction have been evaluated and compared for the recovery of total phenolic compounds (TPC) and total anthocyanins (TA) from blackberry. Since several variables have an influence on the extraction processes efficiency, a response surface method using a Box–Behnken design (BBD) was chosen for the optimization of UAE and MAE variables. Six variables (solvent, temperature, amplitude, cycle, pH, and sample:solvent ratio) were optimized for UAE while the optimization for MAE was performed on four variables (solvent, temperature, pH, and sample:solvent ratio). It has been proven that solvent and temperature have a significant influence on the extraction of both TA and TPC. Only 10 and 5 min were necessary to complete the UAE and MAE procedures, respectively. A precision study was also carried out, and coefficient of variation lower than 5% was determined. Non-significant differences were obtained when using UAE and MAE at their respective optimum conditions. Thus, the results demonstrated a successful potential use of both techniques for the extraction of TA and TPC from blackberry. In conclusion, this work shows interesting perspectives for quality control analytical laboratories for the development of rapid extraction techniques to quantify these antioxidant compounds in blackberries.
Genetic Selection for Thermotolerance in Ruminants
Authors: Osei-Amponsah Richard , Chauhan Surinder S. , Leury Brian J. , Cheng Long , Cullen Brendan , Clarke Iain J. , Dunshea Frank R.
Published: November 2019

Variations in climatic variables (temperature, humidity and solar radiation) negatively impact livestock growth, reproduction, and production. Heat stress, for instance, is a source of huge financial loss to livestock production globally. There have been significant advances in physical modifications of animal environment and nutritional interventions as tools of heat stress mitigation. Unfortunately, these are short-term solutions and may be unsustainable, costly, and not applicable to all production systems. Accordingly, there is a need for innovative, practical, and sustainable approaches to overcome the challenges posed by global warming and climate change-induced heat stress. This review highlights attempts to genetically select and breed ruminants for thermotolerance and thereby sustain production in the face of changing climates. One effective way is to incorporate sustainable heat abatement strategies in ruminant production. Improved knowledge of the physiology of ruminant acclimation to harsh environments, the opportunities and tools available for selecting and breeding thermotolerant ruminants, and the matching of animals to appropriate environments should help to minimise the effect of heat stress on sustainable animal genetic resource growth, production, and reproduction to ensure protein food security.
Thymoquinone-PLGA-PVA Nanoparticles Ameliorate Bleomycin-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis in Rats via Regulation of Inflammatory Cytokines and iNOS Signaling
Authors: Saghir Sultan A. M. , Al-Gabri Naif A. , Khafaga Asmaa F. , El-shaer Nahla H. , Alhumaidh Khaled A. , Elsadek Mohamed F. , Ahmed Badreldin M. , Alkhawtani Daniyah M. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E.
Published: November 2019

Pulmonary fibrosis is considered one of the most chronic interstitial illnesses which are not easily treated. thymoquinone’s (TQ) benefits are still partly problematic due to poor water solubility; therefore, it was loaded onto PLGA-PVA carriers. This study aimed to evaluate the potential effect of TQ-PLGA-PVA nanoparticles (TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs) on pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin in albino rats. Forty male rats were randomized into four groups. The first group served as the control group; the second and the third groups received bleomycin intratracheally, whereas the third group received TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs after 4 weeks from bleomycin administration. The fourth group was administrated TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs alone. The designed nanoparticles appeared around 20 nm size (10–30 nm), had a spherical shape, and had 80% encapsulation efficiency. The histological examination of rats simultaneously treated with TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs and bleomycin revealed reduction in the thickness of the alveolar septa and improvement of the other lung structures, with the presence of lymphocytes admixed with exfoliated epithelium in a few lumina remaining. Ultrastructural findings revealed marked collagenolysis and the release of nanoparticles from ruptured pneumocytes within the alveolar septa after 14 days from TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs administration. Very active pneumocyte types II were seen in the TQ-PLGA-PVANP group. Additionally, immunohistochemical expression of inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) and estimation of inflammatory cytokines in lung tissues including interleukin 10 (IL 10) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β1) confirmed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of TQ-PLGA-PVANPs. The study concluded that TQ-PLGA-PVA-NPs could attenuate the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, through the inhibition of lung inflammation and the suppression of bleomycin- induced oxidative stress.
Antioxidants versus Food Antioxidant Additives and Food Preservatives
Authors: Franco Rafael , Navarro Gemma , Martínez-Pinilla Eva
Published: November 2019

Natural and processed foods are fragile and can become unpalatable and/or rotten. The processed food industry uses preservatives to enable distribution, even to different continents, and to extend the useful life of their products. Preservatives impede oxidation, a mandatory step in rotting, either by aerobic or anaerobic mechanisms. From a functional point of view, these compounds are antioxidants, and, therefore, a kind of contradiction exists when a preservative is considered “bad” for human health while also thinking that antioxidants provide benefits. The basis of antioxidant action, the doses required for preservation, and the overall antioxidant action are revisited in this work. Finally, the bad and the good of food additives/preservatives are presented, taking into account the main mediator of antioxidant beneficial actions, namely the innate mechanisms of detoxification. Foods that strengthen such innate mechanisms are also presented.
Shear Strength Prediction Equations and Experimental Study of High Strength Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Beams with Different Shear Span-to-Depth Ratios
Authors: Perceka Wisena , Liao Wen-Cheng , Wu Yung-Fu
Published: November 2019

Conducting research on steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) beams without stirrups, particularly the SFRC beams with high-strength concrete (HSC) and high-strength steel (HSS) reinforcing bars is essential due to the limitation of test results of high strength SFRC beams with high strength steel reinforcing bars. Eight shear strength prediction equations for analysis and design of the SFRC beam derived by different researchers are summarized. A database was constructed from 236 beams. Accordingly, the previous shear strength equations can be evaluated. Ten high-strength SFRC beams subjected to monotonic loading were prepared to verify the existing shear strength prediction equations. The equations for predicting shear strength of the SFRC beam are proposed on the basis of observations from the test results and evaluation results of the previous shear strength equations. The proposed shear strength equation possesses a reasonable result. For alternative analysis and design of the SFRC beams, ACI 318-19 shear strength equation is modified to consider steel fiber parameters.
Effect of Disintegration Times of the Homogeneity of Soil prior to Treatment
Authors: Al-Jabban Wathiq , Laue Jan , Knutsson Sven , Al-Ansari Nadhir
Published: November 2019

This paper presents an experimental study to investigate the effect of various disintegration times on the homogeneity of pre-treated natural soil before mixing with cementitious binders. Various disintegration times were applied, ranging from 10 s to 120 s. Four different soils were used with different characteristics from high, medium and low plasticity properties. Visual and sieving assessment were used to evaluate the best disintegration times to allow for a uniform distribution of water content and small-sized particles that would produce a uniform distribution of the binder around the soil particles. Results showed that a proper mixing time to homogenize and disintegrate the soil prior to treatment depended on several factors: soil type, water content and plasticity properties. For high plasticity soil, the disintegration time should be kept as short as possible. Increasing the disintegration time ha negative effects on the uniformity of distribution of the binder around soil particles. The homogenizing and disintegration time were less important for low plasticity soils with low water content than for medium to high plasticity soils. The findings could assist various construction projects that deal with soil improvement through preparation of soil before adding a cementitious binder to ensure uniformity of distribution of the binder around soil particles and obtain uniform soil–binder mixtures.
Insulin Solution Stability and Biocompatibility with Materials Used for an Implantable Insulin Delivery Device Using Reverse Phase HPLC Methods
Authors: Jacob Dolly , Taylor M. Joan , Tomlins Paul , Sahota Tarsem
Published: November 2019

Insulin (Humulin® R IU500) has been delivered from an implantable artificial pancreas in diabetic rats and pigs. The artificial pancreas which was implanted in the peritoneum was fabricated from several biocompatible materials such as polycarbonate, stainless steel, polyurethane, titanium and a polyurethane resin. The device also contains a glucose responsive smart gel which controls the diffusion of insulin dependent on the surrounding glucose environment. As the insulin reservoir is refillable and in contact with the device materials, assessing its biocompatibility with these various device component materials was conducted. Insulin can undergo chemical degradation mainly via a deamidation reaction on glutamine and asparagine residues rendering its biological hormone functionality. Two Reverse Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP-HPLC) methods were developed and validated for detection of insulin and degradant Asn A21 desamido insulin (method A) and insulin and degradant Asn B3 desamido insulin (method B). Material biocompatibility studies show that stainless steel and titanium are suitable for an implantable insulin delivery device design over a 31-day period. The use of polycarbonate and polyurethane could be considered if the insulin reservoir in the device was only to remain in the device for less than 11 days after which time there is a loss in cresol which acts in a protective capacity for insulin stability.
Portable Optical Fiber Bragg Grating Sensor for Monitoring Traffic Density
Authors: Fridrich Michael , Fajkus Marcel , Mec Pavel , Nedoma Jan , Kostelansky Michal , Bednar Emil
Published: November 2019

The paper examines the development of a portable sensor strip with fiber optic Bragg grating for monitoring urban traffic density up to 80 kph. It contains a 2.5-m-long and a 2-cm-high sensor created from a combination of silicone addition rubber (bicomponent addition silicone rubber) and Bragg grating placed inside a carbon tube. The design of the portable sensor permits traffic density and cars crossings to be monitored and detected in a single lane. The functionality of the sensor was verified in real traffic; the results of this study are based on the detection of 1518 vehicles of different types and sizes. According to the measurements, the sensor is characterized by a high detection rate of 98.946%.
Application of Technological Solutions in the Fight Against Money Laundering—A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Sobreira Leite Gleidson , Bessa Albuquerque Adriano , Rogerio Pinheiro Plácido
Published: November 2019

With the growing interest in technological solutions aimed at combating money laundering, several studies involving the application of technology have been carried out. However, there were no records of studies aimed at identifying, selecting, rigorously analyzing and synthesizing the literature on solutions that adopt technology to combat money laundering. This paper presents a systematic review of the literature on the application of technological solutions in the fight against money laundering. Seventy-one papers were selected from the 795 studies initially retrieved for data extraction, analysis and synthesis based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results obtained with the data analysis made it possible to identify a general categorization of the domains of application of the approaches, as well as a mapping and classification of the support mechanisms adopted. The findings of this review showed that, among the application domain categories identified, the detection of suspicious transactions attracted greater attention from researchers. Regarding the support mechanisms adopted, the application of data mining techniques was used more extensively to detect money laundering. Topics for further research and refinement were also identified, such as the need for a better description of data analysis to provide more convincing evidence to support the benefits presented.
Energy Consumption Model for Drilling Processes Based on Cutting Force
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Dinghua , Chen Bing , Zhang Ying , Wu Baohai
Published: November 2019

Accurate energy consumption modelling is critical for the improvement of energy efficiency in machining. Existing energy models of machining processes mainly focus on turning or milling, and there are few energy models for drilling. However, since drilling is often applied to roughing and semi-finishing, and the cutting parameters are large, the energy consumption is huge, and it is urgent to study the consumption of energy during the drilling process. In this paper, an energy consumption model for drilling processes was proposed. Idle power, cutting power, and auxiliary power were included in the proposed energy consumption model, using the cutting force to obtain the cutting power during drilling. Further, the relationship between cutting power and auxiliary power was analyzed. Cutting experiments were then carried out which confirmed the correctness of the proposed model. In addition, compared with several existing energy consumption models, the proposed model had better accuracy and applicability. It is expected that the proposed energy consumption model will have applications for the minimization of energy consumption and improvement of energy efficiency but not limited to only drilling energy consumption prediction.