bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Killer whales are attracted to herring fishing vessels
Authors: Mul E , Blanchet MA , McClintock BT , Grecian WJ , Biuw M , Rikardsen A
Published: September 2020

Marine mammals and fisheries often target the same resources, which can lead to operational interactions. Potential consequences of operational interaction include entanglements and damaged or reduced catches but also enhanced foraging opportunities, which can attract marine mammals to fishing vessels. Responsible fisheries management therefore requires detailed knowledge of the impact of these interactions. In northern Norway, killer whales Orcinus orca are frequently observed in association with large herring aggregations during the winter. We use a combination of biotelemetry and fisheries data to study if, to what extent and at what distances killer whales are attracted to fishing activity. Twenty-five satellite transmitters were deployed on killer whales at herring overwintering and spawning grounds, often near fishing vessels. Over 50% of the killer whale core areas of high usage overlapped with the fisheries core areas, and individual whales spent up to 34% of their time close to active fishing. We used a 3-state hidden Markov model to assess whether killer whale movements were biased towards fishing activities. Of the overall whale movements, 15% (CI = 11-21%) were biased towards fishing activities, with marked heterogeneity among individuals (0-57%). During periods of active fishing, whale movements were biased towards fishing events 44% (CI = 24-66%) of the time, with individual percentages ranging from 0 to 79%. Whales were more likely to be attracted when they were within 20 km. This information can be used in fishery management to consider potential consequences for fishers and whales.
Comparative species abundance modeling of Capitellidae (Annelida) in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA
Authors: Hilliard J , Karlen D , Dix T , Markham S , Schulze A
Published: September 2020

Capitellid polychaetes are ubiquitous throughout the world’s oceans and are often encountered in high abundance. We used an extensive dataset of species abundance and distribution records of theCapitella capitatacomplex,C. aciculata,C. jonesi,Heteromastus filiformis,Mediomastus ambiseta, andM. californiensisfrom Tampa Bay, Florida, USA, as a model system of closely related species filling a similar ecological niche. We sought to (1) characterize the spatial distribution of each species, (2) determine if a single species abundance modeling strategy could be applied to them all, and (3) assess environmental drivers of species distribution and abundance. We found that all species had a zero-inflated abundance distribution and there was spatial autocorrelation by bay regions. Lorenz curves were an effective tool to assess spatial patterns of species abundance across large areas. Bay segment, depth, and dissolved oxygen were the most important environmental drivers. Modeling was accomplished by comparing 6 different approaches: 4 generalized additive models (GAMs: Poisson, negative binomial, Tweedie, and zero-inflated Poisson distributions), hurdle models, and boosted regression trees. There was no single model with top performance for every species. However, GAM-Tweedie and hurdle models performed well overall and may be useful for studies of other benthic marine invertebrates.
Information System Strategic Planning using Ward and Peppard Methodology (Case Study: Nusatovel Salatiga)
Authors: Agnes Angelina , Wijaya Agustinus Fritz
Published: September 2020

In the current era of globalization, IS and IT are utilized to be able to compete and increase company productivity. Information system strategic planning is one of the keys in achieving the target expected by the company. NUSATOVEL PT has implemented an information system, but there are still some parts that have not implemented the information system. The information system strategy planning model uses the Ward and Peppard method with SWOT analysis, Value Chain analysis, and Mc Farlan's Strategic Grid. By using this method various factors that affect the company, both internal and external are analyzed to get a formula that is the basis for preparing a new IS / IT strategy in the form of an IS / IT portfolio, which can then be used as a strategic plan. Research using this method makes strategic planning for IS / IT that can provide recommendations or solutions to the development and implementation of IS / IT that is more effective and efficient for the company. The proposed information system strategy, namely Graphic Design SI, Customer Relations Manager SI, SI Services, can be implemented within the next 3 (three) years.
Physico-Chemical Bases Cultivation Variable-gap Semiconductor Solid Solution Si1−xGex from the Liquid Phase
Authors: Razzakov A. , Matnazarov A. , Latipova M. , Japakov A.
Published: September 2020

Abstract. Single-crystal films of a graded-gap solid solution Si1-xGex (0 <x <1) was grown on Si substrates from limited tin, gallium solution-melt. Accordingly, liquid phase epitaxy method was applied in the process. The formation of dislocations, grown under various technological conditions, at the substrate-film interface along the growth direction of the Si1-xGex solid solution was studied. Optimal technological growth modes for obtaining crystalline perfect epitaxial layers and structures are given.
Multi-Omics Analysis in Initiation and Progression of Meningiomas: From Pathogenesis to Diagnosis
Authors: Liu Jiachen , Xia Congcong , Wang Gaiqing
Published: September 2020

Meningiomas are common intracranial tumors that can be cured by surgical resection in most cases. However, the most disconcerting is high-grade meningiomas, which frequently recur despite initial successful treatment, eventually conferring poor prognosis. Therefore, the early diagnosis and classification of meningioma is necessary for the subsequent intervention and an improved prognosis. A growing body of evidence demonstrates the potential of multi-omics study (including genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics) for meningioma diagnosis and mechanistic links to potential pathological mechanism. This thesis addresses a neglected aspect of recent advances in the field of meningiomas at multiple omics levels, highlighting that the integration of multi-omics can reveal the mechanism of meningiomas, which provides a timely and necessary scientific basis for the treatment of meningiomas.
Agronomic Approaches for Characterization, Remediation, and Monitoring of Contaminated Sites
Authors: Fagnano Massimo , Visconti Donato , Fiorentino Nunzio
Published: September 2020

With a view to conserving or improving soil ecosystem services, environment-friendly techniques, such as bio- and phytoremediation, can effectively be used for the characterization, risk assessment, and remediation of contaminated agricultural sites. Polyannual vegetation (meadows, poplar, and cane stands) is widely considered the most efficient tool for remediation (extraction of bioavailable fraction of contaminants), for undertaking safety measures (reducing the mobility of contaminants towards other environmental compartments), and for restoring the ecosystem services of contaminated agricultural sites (biomass production, groundwater protection, C storage, landscape quality improvement, and cultural and educational services). The roles of agronomic approaches will be reviewed by focusing on the various steps in the whole remediation process: (i) detailed environmental characterization; (ii) phytoremediation for reducing risks for the environment and human health; (iii) agronomic management for improving efficiency of phytoremediation; and (iv) biomass recycling in the win-win perspective of the circular economy.
Short-Term Effects of Pile Burn on N Dynamic and N Loss in Mediterranean Croatia
Authors: Delač Domina , Pereira Paulo , Bogunović Igor , Kisić Ivica
Published: September 2020

There is a lack of information in the rural Mediterranean area about agricultural pile burning impacts on soil nitrogen (N) dynamic and the N loss. Therefore, this research aims to study the impacts of moderate (MS), and high (HS) severity burn on N transformation and N losses, compared to an unburned (C) during the first year. The experimental plots (10 m2) were established in Croatia (43°58′ N 15°31′ E), in a slope ~18°, with a southwest exposition. Five days after the burn, C treatment had a significantly higher total N (TN) than MS and HS. Generally, the runoff was significantly different between burned and C treatments. Sediment yield, concentrations, and TN loss were significantly higher in MS than in C treatment. The concentrations of ammonium (NH4-N) and nitrate (NO3-N) in the runoff, and their losses were higher in burn treatments than in C treatment. These values were high in the first three months after burn, although the peaks in later periods correspond to extreme rainfall events. Principal component analysis showed that sediment yield was associated with sediment concentration, runoff, and TN loss (Factor 1). In addition, rainfall amount and intensity were inversely related to NH4-N concentration and losses (Factor 2). The NO3-N concentration was positively related to NO3-N losses. Overall, MS treatment had severe effects on N loss and, sediment yield can be used as an indicator of soil degradation after pile burns.
Dietary Insect Powder Protein Sources Improve Protein Utilization by Regulation on Intestinal Amino Acid-Chemosensing System
Authors: Liu Hongnan , Tan Bie , Kong Xiangfeng , Li Jianjun , Li Guangran , He Liuqin , Bai Miaomiao , Yin Yulong
Published: September 2020

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary insect powder supplementation as a protein source on plasma amino acid profiles, intestinal amino acid transport and sensing in a piglet model. A total of 144 weanling piglets were randomly assigned to four experimental diets for two phases (Days 1–28 and Days 29–56), to assess the effects on amino acid profiles and transportation in the segments of the intestine. The groups were basal diet (control), control diet plus Tenebrio molitor (TM), control diet plus Musca domestica larvae (MDL) and control diet plus Zophobas morio (ZM). The plasma free amino acid levels were stable comparable among treatments, except that the lysine level was significantly reduced by dietary MDL and ZM supplementation in the first phase (p < 0.05). In the 1st phase, the sensitivity of intestinal segments to the regulation of the amino acid level by insect powder supplementation follows sequence: colon > ileum > jejunum, while the order switched to jejunum > colon > ileum in the 2nd phase. The relative RNA expressions of mitogen-activated protein 4 kinase 3 (MAP4K3), sodium dependent neutral amino acid transporter2 (SNAT2), the transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) and taste 1 receptor member 1/3 (T1R3) in the segments of the intestine were affected by different dietary insect powder supplementation. G protein-coupled receptor family C group 6 member A (GPRC6A) level in the jejunal and colonic mucosa was upregulated by MDL supplementation (p < 0.05). These results indicated that dietary insects improved the metabolism of the amino acid in the prophase (the 1st phase) through regulating the sensing gene and mTOR signal pathway in intestinal mucosa by targeting different receptors. The finding demonstrates that the insect powder is a potentially promising source for protein deposition.
Climate and the Global Spread and Impact of Bananas’ Black Leaf Sigatoka Disease
Authors: Strobl Eric , Mohan Preeya
Published: September 2020

While Black Sigatoka Leaf Disease (Mycosphaerella fijiensis) has arguably been the most important pathogen affecting the banana industry over the past 50 years, there are no quantitative estimates of what risk factors determine its spread across the globe, nor how its spread has affected banana producing countries. This study empirically models the disease spread across and its impact within countries using historical spread timelines, biophysical models, local climate data, and country level agricultural data. To model the global spread a empirical hazard model is employed. The results show that the most important factor affecting first time infection of a country is the extent of their agricultural imports, having increased first time disease incidence by 69% points. In contrast, long distance dispersal due to climatic factors only raised this probability by 0.8% points. The impact of disease diffusion within countries once they are infected is modelled using a panel regression estimator. Findings indicate that under the right climate conditions the impact of Black Sigatoka Leaf Disease can be substantial, currently resulting in an average 3% reduction in global annual production, i.e., a loss of yearly revenue of about USD 1.6 billion.
Comparison of GC-μECD and OA-ICOS Methods for High-Precision Measurements of Atmospheric Nitrous Oxide (N2O) at a Korean GAW Station
Authors: Lee Haeyoung , Ko Miyoung , Kim Sumin , Seo Wonick , Park Young-San
Published: September 2020

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a powerful greenhouse gas and is the largest remaining anthropogenic source of stratospheric ozone-depleting substances as halocarbons return towards preindustrial levels. To verify the N2O emission inventory using inverse analysis, precise and reliable measurements are necessary. In this study, we compared the conventional gas chromatography with the microelectron capture detector method (GC-μECD, Agilent 7890A) with advanced off-axis integrated cavity output spectroscopy (OA-ICOS, Los Gatos, EP-30) for atmospheric N2O measurements at the Jeju Gosan Suwolbong Station (JGS, 126.16° E, 33.30° N, 71.47 m a.s.l) in South Korea. The measurement uncertainties from linearity, repeatability, and reproducibility derived from the two instruments were compared. The values derived from GC-μECD were 2.4 to 8.7 times greater than that of OA-ICOS in all factors at the station. Since these factors affect the measurement quality, the calibration strategy should be well-established to reduce the measurement uncertainty. These uncertainties resulted in biases from the measurement of atmospheric N2O. The parallel inter-comparison experiment was implemented at JGS for 22 months, and the difference in atmospheric N2O was 0.17 ± 0.9 ppb between the two instruments. The significant differences were observed in the nonlinear range of the GC-μECD. Finally, these differences resulted in the over/underestimation of N2O characteristics locally and seasonally. Overall, OA-ICOS has a more robust performance with a lower measurement uncertainty than GC-μECD. Based on this study, we also suggest a calibration strategy for both instruments to achieve precise N2O measurements.
Behaviors of Chromium in Coal-Fired Power Plants and Associated Atmospheric Emissions in Guizhou, Southwest China
Authors: Li Zhonggen , Wang Qingfeng , Xiao Zhongjiu , Fan Leilei , Wang Dan , Li Xinyu , Du Jia , Cheng Junwei
Published: September 2020

Coal burning is a main concern for a range of atmospheric pollutants, including the environmentally sensitive element chromium (Cr). Cr migrates to the environment through stack emissions and can leach out from solid coal-burning byproducts, thereby causing adverse effects on the ecosystem. In this study, atmospheric emissions of Cr from six coal-fired power plants (CFPPs), as well as the distribution of Cr inside these CFPPs in Guizhou Province, Southwest China, were investigated. Among the six CFPPs, one was a circulating fluidized bed boiler and the others were pulverized coal boilers. The results showed that Cr in the feed fuel of these CFPPs ranged from 39.5 to 101.5 mg·kg−1 (average: 68.0 ± 24.8 mg·kg−1) and was approximately four times higher than the national and global average. Cr in the feed fuel correlated significantly with the ash yield, demonstrating that Cr in coal is closely associated with ash-forming minerals. After the coal combustion and the treatment by different air pollution control devices, most Cr (>92%) in the installation was retained in the captured fly ash and bottom ash, with less as gypsum (0.69–7.94%); eventually, only 0.01–0.03% of Cr was emitted into the atmosphere with a concentration of 1.4–2.2 μg·Nm−3. The atmospheric emission factors of Cr for these utility boilers were as low as 14.86 ± 3.62 mg Cr·t−1 coal, 7.72 ± 2.53 μg Cr (kW·h)−1, and 0.70 ± 0.19 g Cr·TJ−1, respectively. About 981 kg·y−1 of Cr was discharged into the atmosphere from Guizhuo’s CFPPs in 2017, much lower than previous reported values. Most of the Cr in the CFPPs ended up in solid combustion products, identifying the need for the careful disposal of high-Cr-containing ashes (up to 500 mg·kg−1) to prevent possible mobilization into the environment.
Detection of Extreme Phenomena in the Stable Boundary Layer over the Amazonian Forest
Authors: Miranda Francisco O. , Ramos Fernando M. , von Randow Celso , Dias-Júnior Cléo Q. , Chamecki Marcelo , Fuentes Jose D. , Manzi Antônio O. , de Oliveira Marceliano E. , de Souza Cledenilson M.
Published: September 2020

We apply different methods for detection of extreme phenomena (EP) in air-turbulent time series measured in the nocturnal boundary layer above the Amazon forest. The methods used were: (a) a Morlet complex wavelet transform, which is often used in analysis of non-linear application processes. Through the use of the wavelet, it is possible to observe a phase singularity that involves a strong interaction between an extensive range of scales; (b) recurrence plot tests, which were used to identify a sudden change between different stable atmospheric states. (c) statistical analysis of early-warning signals, which verify simultaneous increases in the autocorrelation function and in the variance in the state variable; and (d) analysis of wind speed versus turbulent kinetic energy to identify different turbulent regimes in the stable boundary layer. We found it is adequate to use a threshold to classify the cases of strong turbulence regime, as a result of the occurrence of EP in the tropical atmosphere. All methods used corroborate and indicate synergy between events that culminate in what we classify as EP of the stable boundary layer above the tropical forest.
Printed Electrodes in Microfluidic Arrays for Cancer Biomarker Protein Detection
Authors: Dhanapala Lasangi , Krause Colleen E. , Jones Abby L. , Rusling James F.
Published: September 2020

Medical diagnostics is trending towards a more personalized future approach in which multiple tests can be digitized into patient records. In cancer diagnostics, patients can be tested for individual protein and genomic biomarkers that detect cancers at very early stages and also be used to monitor cancer progression or remission during therapy. These data can then be incorporated into patient records that could be easily accessed on a cell phone by a health care professional or the patients themselves on demand. Data on protein biomarkers have a large potential to be measured in point-of-care devices, particularly diagnostic panels that could provide a continually updated, personalized record of a disease like cancer. Electrochemical immunoassays have been popular among protein detection methods due to their inherent high sensitivity and ease of coupling with screen-printed and inkjet-printed electrodes. Integrated chips featuring these kinds of electrodes can be built at low cost and designed for ease of automation. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) features are adopted in most of these ultrasensitive detection systems, with microfluidics allowing easy manipulation and good fluid dynamics to deliver reagents and detect the desired proteins. Several of these ultrasensitive systems have detected biomarker panels ranging from four to eight proteins, which in many cases when a specific cancer is suspected may be sufficient. However, a grand challenge lies in engineering microfluidic-printed electrode devices for the simultaneous detection of larger protein panels (e.g., 50–100) that could be used to test for many types of cancers, as well as other diseases for truly personalized care.
Peer Support in the Treatment of Chronic Pain in Adolescents: A Review of the Literature and Available Resources
Authors: Tolley James A. , Michel Marti A. , Williams Amy E. , Renschler Janelle S.
Published: September 2020

Peer support has found applications beyond the mental health field and is useful for managing several chronic disorders and supporting healthy lifestyle choices. Communication through telephone and the Internet allows for greater access to those who cannot meet in person. Adolescent chronic pain would seem ideally suited to benefit from online peer support groups. Research is lacking, however, to characterize benefit in terms of pain and function, despite a clear desire among adolescents for access to such programs. More rapid development of online applications is needed for peer support, and research into the associated outcomes will be necessary to optimally design such programs.
Parent–Child Reminiscing about Past Pain as a Preparatory Technique in the Context of Children’s Pain: A Narrative Review and Call for Future Research
Authors: Pavlova Maria , Orr Serena L. , Noel Melanie
Published: September 2020

Pain permeates childhood and remains inadequately and/or inconsistently managed. Existing research and clinical practice guidelines have largely focused on factors influencing the immediate experience of pain. The need for and benefits of preparing children for future pain (e.g., painful procedures) has been well established. Despite being a robust predictor of future pain and distress, memories of past painful experiences remain overlooked in pediatric pain management. Just as autobiographical memories prepare us for the future, children’s memories for past pain can be harnessed to prepare children for future painful experiences. Children’s pain memories are malleable and can be reframed to be less distressing, thus reducing anticipatory distress and promoting self-efficacy. Parents are powerful agents of change in the context of pediatric pain and valuable historians of children’s past painful experiences. They can alter children’s pain memories to be less distressing simply by talking, or reminiscing, about past pain. This narrative review summarizes existing research on parent–child reminiscing in the context of acute and chronic pediatric pain and argues for incorporation of parent–child reminiscing elements into preparatory interventions for painful procedures.
GaN-Based LEDs Grown on Graphene-Covered SiO2/Si (100) Substrate
Authors: Song Wurui , Ren Fang , Wang Yunyu , Yin Yue , Zhang Shuo , Shi Bo , Feng Tao , Wang Jianwei , Liang Meng , Zhang Yiyun , Wei Tongbo , Yan Jianchang , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin , Yi Xiaoyan , Liu Zhiqiang
Published: September 2020

The growth of nitride on large-size and low-cost amorphous substrates has attracted considerable attention for applications in large-scale optoelectronic devices. In this paper, we reported the growth of GaN-based light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on amorphous SiO2 substrate with the use of nanorods and graphene buffer layers by metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). The effect of different growth parameters on the morphology and vertical-to-lateral aspect ratio of nanorods was discussed by analyzing growth kinetics. Furthermore, we tuned nanorod coalescence to obtain continuous GaN films with a blue-LED structure by adjusting growth conditions. The GaN films exhibited a hexagonal wurtzite structure and aligned c-axis orientation demonstrated by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Raman, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) results. Finally, five-pair InGaN/GaN multi-quantum-wells (MQWs) were grown. The photoluminescence (PL) showed an intense emission peak at 475 nm, and the current–voltage (I-V) curve shows a rectifying behavior with a turn-on voltage of 5.7 V. This work provides a promising fabrication method for the large-area and low-cost GaN-based devices on amorphous substrates and opens up the further possibility of nitride integration with Si (100) complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) electronics.
Cancer Diagnosis by Neural Network Analysis of Data from Semiconductor Sensors
Authors: Chernov Vladimir I. , Choynzonov Evgeniy L. , Kulbakin Denis E. , Obkhodskaya Elena V. , Obkhodskiy Artem V. , Popov Aleksandr S. , Sachkov Victor I. , Sachkova Anna S.
Published: September 2020

“Electronic nose” technology, including technical and software tools to analyze gas mixtures, is promising regarding the diagnosis of malignant neoplasms. This paper presents the research results of breath samples analysis from 59 people, including patients with a confirmed diagnosis of respiratory tract cancer. The research was carried out using a gas analytical system including a sampling device with 14 metal oxide sensors and a computer for data analysis. After digitization and preprocessing, the data were analyzed by a neural network with perceptron architecture. As a result, the accuracy of determining oncological disease was 81.85%, the sensitivity was 90.73%, and the specificity was 61.39%.
An Elastic Collision Model for Impulsive Jumping by Small Planktonic Organisms
Authors: Jiang Houshuo
Published: September 2020

Many small marine planktonic organisms converge on similar propulsion mechanisms that involve impulsively generated viscous wake vortex rings, and small-scale fluid physics is key to mechanistically understanding the adaptive values of this important behavioral trait. Here, a theoretical fluid mechanics model is developed for plankton jumping, based on observations that the initial acceleration phase for a jumping plankter to attain its maximum speed is nearly impulsive, taking only a small fraction of the viscous timescale, and therefore can be regarded as nearly inviscid, analogous to a one-dimensional elastic collision. Flow circulation time-series data measured by particle image velocimetry (PIV) are input into the model and Froude propulsion efficiencies are calculated for several plankton species. Jumping by the tailed ciliate Pseudotontonia sp. has a high Froude propulsion efficiency ~0.9. Copepod jumping also has a very high efficiency, usually >0.95. Jumping by the squid Doryteuthis pealeii paralarvae has an efficiency of 0.44 ± 0.16 (SD). Jumping by the small medusa Sarsia tubulosa has an efficiency of 0.38 ± 0.26 (SD). Differences in the calculated efficiencies are attributed to the different ways by which these plankters impart momentum on the water during the initial acceleration phase as well as the accompanied different added mass coefficients.
Identification of Diagnostic Biomarkers and Subtypes of Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Multi-Omics Data Analysis
Authors: Ouyang Xiao , Fan Qingju , Ling Guang , Shi Yu , Hu Fuyan
Published: September 2020

As liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) has high morbidity and mortality rates, improving the clinical diagnosis and treatment of LIHC is an important issue. The advent of the era of precision medicine provides us with new opportunities to cure cancers, including the accumulation of multi-omics data of cancers. Here, we proposed an integration method that involved the Fisher ratio, Spearman correlation coefficient, classified information index, and an ensemble of decision trees (DTs) for biomarker identification based on an unbalanced dataset of LIHC. Then, we obtained 34 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The ability of the 34 DEGs to discriminate tumor samples from normal samples was evaluated by classification, and a high area under the curve (AUC) was achieved in our studied dataset and in two external validation datasets (AUC = 0.997, 0.973, and 0.949, respectively). Additionally, we also found three subtypes of LIHC, and revealed different biological mechanisms behind the three subtypes. Mutation enrichment analysis showed that subtype 3 had many enriched mutations, including tumor protein p53 (TP53) mutations. Overall, our study suggested that the 34 DEGs could serve as diagnostic biomarkers, and the three subtypes could help with precise treatment for LIHC.
MiR-184 Combined with STC2 Promotes Endometrial Epithelial Cell Apoptosis in Dairy Goats via RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK Pathway
Authors: Cui Jiuzeng , Liu Xiaorui , Yang Lichun , Che Sicheng , Guo Hongran , Han Jincheng , Zhu Zhongshi , Cao Binyun , An Xiaopeng , Zhang Lei , Song Yuxuan
Published: September 2020

The endometrium undergoes a series of complex changes to form a receptive endometrium (RE) that allows the embryo to be implanted. The inability to establish endometrial receptivity of livestock causes embryo implantation failure and considerable losses to animal husbandry. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs. Studies have found that miRNAs can regulate many critical physiological processes, including the establishment of RE during embryo implantation. miR-184 is highly expressed in the endometrial receptive period of dairy goats. This study aimed to explore the effect of miR-184 on endometrial epithelial cell (EEC) apoptosis and RE establishment. Stanniocalcin2 (STC2) is a direct target of miR-184, and miR-184 decreases the expression of STC2 in dairy goat EECs. miR-184 can activate EECs apoptosis through the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway. Additionally, miR-184 increases the expression levels of RE marker genes, such as forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These findings indicate that miR-184 promotes the apoptosis of endometrial epithelial cells in dairy goats by downregulating STC2 via the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway, and that it may also regulate the establishment of RE in dairy goats.
miR-215 Targeting Novel Genes EREG, NIPAL1 and PTPRU Regulates the Resistance to E.coli F18 in Piglets
Authors: Dai Chao-Hui , Wang Fang , Wang Shi-Qin , Wu Zheng-Chang , Wu Sheng-Long , Bao Wen-Bin
Published: September 2020

Previous research has revealed that miR-215 might be an important miRNA regulating weaned piglets’ resistance to Escherichia coli (E. coli) F18. In this study, target genes of miR-215 were identified by RNA-seq, bioinformatics analysis and dual luciferase detection. The relationship between target genes and E. coli infection was explored by RNAi technology, combined with E. coli stimulation and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detection. Molecular regulating mechanisms of target genes expression were analyzed by methylation detection of promoter regions and dual luciferase activity assay of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in core promoter regions. The results showed that miR-215 could target EREG, NIPAL1 and PTPRU genes. Expression levels of three genes in porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) in the RNAi group were significantly lower than those in the negative control pGMLV vector (pGMLV-NC) group after E. coli F18 stimulation, while cytokines levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the RNAi group were significantly higher than in the pGMLV-NC group. Variant sites in the promoter region of three genes could affect their promoter activities. These results suggested that miR-215 could regulate weaned piglets’ resistance to E. coli F18 by targeting EREG, NIPAL1 and PTPRU genes. This study is the first to annotate new biological functions of EREG, NIPAL1 and PTPRU genes in pigs, and provides a new experimental basis and reference for the research of piglets disease-resistance breeding.
Genomic Analysis of Selected Maize Landraces from Sahel and Coastal West Africa Reveals Their Variability and Potential for Genetic Enhancement
Authors: Nelimor Charles , Badu-Apraku Baffour , Garcia-Oliveira Ana Luísa , Tetteh Antonia , Paterne Agre , N’guetta Assanvo Simon-Pierre , Gedil Melaku
Published: September 2020

Genetic adaptation of maize to the increasingly unpredictable climatic conditions is an essential prerequisite for achievement of food security and sustainable development goals in sub-Saharan Africa. The landraces of maize; which have not served as sources of improved germplasm; are invaluable sources of novel genetic variability crucial for achieving this objective. The overall goal of this study was to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of a maize panel of 208 accessions; comprising landrace gene pools from Burkina Faso (58), Ghana (43), and Togo (89), together with reference populations (18) from the maize improvement program of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). Genotyping the maize panel with 5974 DArTseq-SNP markers revealed immense genetic diversity indicated by average expected heterozygosity (0.36), observed heterozygosity (0.5), and polymorphic information content (0.29). Model-based population structure; neighbor-joining tree; discriminant analysis of principal component; and principal coordinate analyses all separated the maize panel into three major sub-populations; each capable of providing a wide range of allelic variation. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed that 86% of the variation was within individuals; while 14% was attributable to differences among gene pools. The Burkinabe gene pool was strongly differentiated from all the others (genetic differentiation values >0.20), with no gene flow (Nm) to the reference populations (Nm = 0.98). Thus; this gene pool could be a target for novel genetic variation for maize improvement. The results of the present study confirmed the potential of this maize panel as an invaluable genetic resource for future design of association mapping studies to speed-up the introgression of this novel variation into the existing breeding pipelines.
Plant-Specific Domains and Fragmented Sequences Imply Non-Canonical Functions in Plant Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetases
Authors: Saga Yusuke , Kawashima Moeka , Sakai Shiho , Yamazaki Kaori , Kaneko Misato , Takahashi Moeka , Sato Natsuko , Toyoda Yohei , Takase Shohei , Nakano Takeshi , Kawakami Naoto , Kushiro Tetsuo
Published: September 2020

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) play essential roles in protein translation. In addition, numerous aaRSs (mostly in vertebrates) have also been discovered to possess a range of non-canonical functions. Very few studies have been conducted to elucidate or characterize non-canonical functions of plant aaRSs. A genome-wide search for aaRS genes in Arabidopsis thaliana revealed a total of 59 aaRS genes. Among them, asparaginyl-tRNA synthetase (AsnRS) was found to possess a WHEP domain inserted into the catalytic domain in a plant-specific manner. This insertion was observed only in the cytosolic isoform. In addition, a long stretch of sequence that exhibited weak homology with histidine ammonia lyase (HAL) was found at the N-terminus of histidyl-tRNA synthetase (HisRS). This HAL-like domain has only been seen in plant HisRS, and only in cytosolic isoforms. Additionally, a number of genes lacking minor or major portions of the full-length aaRS sequence were found. These genes encode 14 aaRS fragments that lack key active site sequences and are likely catalytically null. These identified genes that encode plant-specific additional domains or aaRS fragment sequences are candidates for aaRSs possessing non-canonical functions.
Health and Well-Being of Adolescents in Different Family Structures in Germany and the Importance of Family Climate
Authors: Herke Max , Knöchelmann Anja , Richter Matthias
Published: September 2020

The family is of exceptional and lifelong importance to the health of adolescents. Family structure has been linked to children’s and adolescents’ health and well-being; a nuclear family has been shown to be indicative of better health outcomes as compared with a single-parent family or a step-family. Family climate is rarely included in studies on children’s and adolescents’ health and well-being, albeit findings have indicated it is importance. Using data from n = 6838 students aged 12–13 years from the German National Educational Panel Study, this study shows that stronger familial cohesion and better a parent-child relationship are associated with better self-rated health, higher life satisfaction, more prosocial behavior, and less problematic conduct, and that these associations are stronger than those for family structure. Surveys on young people’s health are encouraged to include family climate above and beyond family structure alone.
A Parsimonious Description and Cross-Country Analysis of COVID-19 Epidemic Curves
Authors: Rypdal Kristoffer , Rypdal Martin
Published: September 2020

In a given country, the cumulative death toll of the first wave of the COVID-19 epidemic follows a sigmoid curve as a function of time. In most cases, the curve is well described by the Gompertz function, which is characterized by two essential parameters, the initial growth rate and the decay rate as the first epidemic wave subsides. These parameters are determined by socioeconomic factors and the countermeasures to halt the epidemic. The Gompertz model implies that the total death toll depends exponentially, and hence very sensitively, on the ratio between these rates. The remarkably different epidemic curves for the first epidemic wave in Sweden and Norway and many other countries are classified and discussed in this framework, and their usefulness for the planning of mitigation strategies is discussed.
Changes in Socioeconomic Inequalities in Amenable Mortality after the Economic Crisis in Cities of the Spanish Mediterranean Coast
Authors: Pereyra-Zamora Pamela , Copete José M. , Oliva-Arocas Adriana , Caballero Pablo , Moncho Joaquín , Vergara-Hernández Carlos , Nolasco Andreu
Published: September 2020

Several studies have described a decreasing trend in amenable mortality, as well as the existence of socioeconomic inequalities that affect it. However, their evolution, particularly in small urban areas, has largely been overlooked. The aim of this study is to analyse the socioeconomic inequalities in amenable mortality in three cities of the Valencian Community, namely, Alicante, Castellon, and Valencia, as well as their evolution before and after the start of the economic crisis (2000–2007 and 2008–2015). The units of analysis have been the census tracts and a deprivation index has been calculated to classify them according to their level of socioeconomic deprivation. Deaths and population were also grouped by sex, age group, period, and five levels of deprivation. The specific rates by sex, age group, deprivation level, and period were calculated for the total number of deaths due to all causes and amenable mortality and Poisson regression models were adjusted in order to estimate the relative risk. This study confirms that the inequalities between areas of greater and lesser deprivation in both all-cause mortality and amenable mortality persisted along the two study periods in the three cities. It also shows that these inequalities appear with greater risk of death in the areas of greatest deprivation, although not uniformly. In general, the risks of death from all causes and amenable mortality have decreased significantly from one period to the other, although not in all the groups studied. The evolution of death risks from before the onset of the crisis to the period after presented, overall, a general pro-cyclical trend. However, there are population subgroups for which the trend was counter-cyclical. The use of the deprivation index has made it possible to identify specific geographical areas with vulnerable populations in all three cities and, at the same time, to identify the change in the level of deprivation (ascending or descending) of the geographical areas throughout the two periods. It is precisely these areas where more attention is needed in order to reduce inequalities.
Comment on: Filippini, T.; Tesauro, M.; Fiore, M.; Malagoli, C.; Consonni, M.; Violi, F.; Iacuzio, L.; Arcolin, E.; Oliveri Conti, G.; Cristaldi, A.; Zuccarello, P.; Zucchi, E.; Mazzini, L.; Pisano, F.; Gagliardi, I.; Patti, F.; Mandrioli, J.; Ferrante, M.; Vinceti, M. Environmental and Occupational Risk Factors of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Population-Based Case-Control Study. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17, 2882
Authors: Dickerson Aisha S.
Published: September 2020

A recent paper was published by Filippini et al [...]
The Light and Shadow of Rapid Serological Tests for SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Results from a Study in a Large Emergency Department
Authors: Loconsole Daniela , Centrone Francesca , Morcavallo Caterina , Campanella Silvia , Sallustio Anna , Quarto Michele , Procacci Vito , Chironna Maria
Published: September 2020

A critical point in the management of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is the need to promptly identify the greatest number of infected people and to implement strict public health measures. In this study, the performance of a rapid serological test in a clinical setting was evaluated. Samples from 819 consecutive patients (with or without respiratory symptoms) admitted to a large Emergency Department were tested between 23 March and 21 April 2020. Patient samples were tested in a real-time PCR assay and a serological assay. In total, 148/819 patients (18.1%) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by real-time PCR. The serological test revealed that 70/819 patients (8.5%) had anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and/or IgG. The prevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies was significantly higher in patients with respiratory symptoms lasting for >7 days than in those with respiratory symptoms lasting for 0–7 days (p < 0.001). The serological assay had an overall sensitivity of 35.1% and an overall specificity of 97.3%. A high negative predictive value (96.7%) was reported for patients without respiratory symptoms. The results confirm that rapid serological assays alone are not sufficient for diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection but can be incorporated into large-scale screening programs during periods in which the virus circulation is low.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Self-Report Diabetes Mellitus: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Siqueira Isabela Silva Levindo de , Alves Guimarães Rafael , Mamed Samira Nascimento , Santos Thays Angélica de Pinho , Rocha Suiany Dias , Pagotto Valéria , Caetano Karlla Antonieta Amorim , Rosso Claci Fátima Weirich
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors for self-reported diabetes mellitus (DM) in the adult population of the Central-West region of Brazil. In 2013, a cross-sectional study using the data from the National Health Survey and comprising 7519 individuals aged ≥18 years from the Central-West region was conducted. Participants were interviewed at their homes about sociodemographic data and risk factors for DM. To verify the risk factors with DM, the Poisson regression model was used. The analyses were performed for the total sample and stratified according to sex. The prevalence of DM was 6.5% (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 5.7–7.3). The diagnosis of self-reported DM was 4.3% in men and 7.5% in women. In the global sample, it was found that age between 40–59 years and ≥60 years, previous smoking (former smoker), self-reported hypertension, self-reported dyslipidemia, overweight, and obesity were independently associated with self-reported DM. In men, risk factors were: Age ≥ 60 years, self-reported hypertension, self-reported dyslipidemia, and obesity. In women, risk factors were: Age 30–39 years, 40–59 years, and ≥60 years, previous smoking (former smoker), self-reported hypertension, self-reported dyslipidemia, overweight, and obesity. Conclusion: The prevalence of DM was 6.5%. DM was associated with advanced age; previous smoking (former smoker), hypertension, dyslipidemia, overweight, and obesity. Some differences in risk factors between men and women were noted.
Burnout, Goal Orientation and Academic Performance in Adolescent Students
Authors: Usán Supervía Pablo , Salavera Bordás Carlos
Published: September 2020

During their school years, students can have different experiences and go through various emotional and motivational states that can affect their learning experience and play a key role in their personal and academic development. The goal of this paper is to analyse the relationship between goal orientation, burnout and academic performance. Material and methods: The study comprised a sample of 2652 students aged between 12 and 19 years (m = 14.55; DT = 1.70), both male (n = 1.368; 51.58%) and female (n = 1.284; 48.41%), from 14 secondary schools. The instruments used were the Perception of Success Questionnaire (POSQ), the Maslach Burnout Inventory—Student Survey (MBI-SS) and academic performance, which was measured using the students’ average school marks. Results: Results indicate a significant relationship between task orientation (and, to a lesser extent, ego orientation), efficacy and academic performance in line with adaptive behaviours. In addition, it was demonstrated that task orientation, efficacy and cynicism (burnout) can be used to predict academic performance in adolescents. Conclusion: It is argued that goal orientation plays a key role in promoting adaptive behaviours in an academic context and in the personal and academic development of adolescent students.
Proposing a Supply Chain Collaboration Framework for Synchronous Flow Implementation in the Automotive Industry: A Moroccan Case Study
Authors: Ibn El Farouk Imane , Moufad Imane , Frichi Youness , Arif Jabir , Jawab Fouad
Published: September 2020

The present paper reports on studying synchronous flow implementation, as a lean supply chain tools, through a collaborative relationship with suppliers. This involves consolidating with a new contribution to the development and application of a supply chain collaboration framework between automotive constructor and first-tier equipment suppliers to achieve the synchronous flow of components. The objective is to provide the automotive companies with a decision-making tool for selecting strategic suppliers to collaborate with, examining the collaboration context in terms of motivators, drivers, and barriers and evaluating the collaboration performance. Therefore, our contribution is structured as follows. As a first step, an overview of papers reporting on collaboration, lean supply chain, and synchronous flow is provided to identify the key elements of successful collaboration relationships. As a result, a preliminary framework is elaborated. The second step described the case study of a leading automotive firm “RENAULT” and its suppliers in Morocco. Based on semi-structured interviews conducted with participants from these companies, the preliminary framework was improved. The next section discusses the obtained results as well as the improved framework. Finally, conclusions and suggestions for further works are included.
Do Claims about the Naturalness and Dose of Cosmetics Ingredients Affect the Public’s Perception of Their Safety?
Authors: Chandon Louise
Published: September 2020

Media articles have claimed that “synthetic mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH)”, which are used in many cosmetics such as lip balms, are unsafe at any dose and should be replaced with natural alternatives. This paper examines whether these claims are correct and whether the perceived safety of these substances is influenced by the language used in the media. To achieve these goals, it first provides an extensive review of the toxicology literature, finding no support that MOSHs are unsafe at current usage levels. It then reviews the psychology literature to examine the effects of labelling a cosmetic ingredient as “natural” rather than “synthetic” and the effects of dose information. A 2 × 2 between-subjects experiments involving adult lip balm users shows that, as hypothesized, the perceived safety of lip balms increases when they are described as containing “naturally sourced mineral oil” rather than “synthetic mineral oil saturated hydrocarbon (MOSH)”, which are both correct descriptions. In addition, the perceived safety increases when the substance is described as being present in a low vs. a high dose, regardless of whether it was described as natural or synthetic. Overall, safety perceptions for common cosmetic substances can be significantly influenced by the language used in media reporting.