bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutually Complementary Measure-Correlate-Predict Method for Enhanced Long-Term Wind-Resource Assessment
Authors: Nam Woochul , Oh Ki-Yong
Published: October 2020

Evaluating the economic feasibility of wind farms via long-term wind-resource assessments is indispensable because short-term data measured at a candidate wind-farm site cannot represent the long-term wind potential. Prediction errors are significant when seasonal and year-on-year variations occur. Moreover, reliable long-term reference data with a high correlation to short-term measured data are often unavailable. This paper presents an alternative solution to predict long-term wind resources for a site exhibiting seasonal and year-on-year variations, where long-term reference data are unavailable. An analysis shows that a mutually complementary measure-correlate-predict method can be employed, because several datasets obtained over short periods are used to correct long-term wind resource data in a mutually complementary manner. Moreover, this method is useful in evaluating extreme wind speeds, which is one of the main factors affecting site compliance evaluation and the selection of a suitable wind turbine class based on the International Electrotechnical Commission standards. The analysis also shows that energy density is a more sensitive metric than wind speed for sites with seasonal and year-on-year variations because of the wide distribution of wind speeds. A case study with short-term data measured at Fujeij, Jordan, clearly identifies the factors necessary to perform the reliable and accurate assessment of long-term wind potentials.
Effects of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Health: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hamasaki Hidetaka
Published: October 2020

Background: Breathing is an essential part of life. Diaphragmatic breathing (DB) is slow and deep breathing that affects the brain and the cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal systems through the modulation of autonomic nervous functions. However, the effects of DB on human health need to be further investigated. Methods: The author conducted a PubMed search regarding the current evidence of the effect of DB on health. Results: This review consists of a total of 10 systematic reviews and 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). DB appears to be effective for improving the exercise capacity and respiratory function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Although the effect of DB on the quality of life (QoL) of patients with asthma needs to be investigated, it may also help in reducing stress; treating eating disorders, chronic functional constipation, hypertension, migraine, and anxiety; and improving the QoL of patients with cancer and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the cardiorespiratory fitness of patients with heart failure. Conclusions: Based on this narrative review, the exact usefulness of DB in clinical practice is unclear due to the poor quality of studies. However, it may be a feasible and practical treatment method for various disorders.
Template Stripping Method-Based Au Nanoarray for Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Detection of Antiepileptic Drug
Authors: Endo Tatsuro , Yamada Hirotaka , Yamada Kenji
Published: October 2020

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a potential candidate for highly sensitive detection of target molecules. A SERS active substrate with a noble metal nanostructure is required for this. However, a SERS active substrate requires complicated fabrication procedures. This in turn makes it difficult to fabricate highly sensitive SERS active substrates with high reproducibility. To overcome this difficulty, a plasmonic crystal (PC) with periodic noble metal nanostructures was fabricated via the template-stripping method using a polymer-based template. Using SERS active substrates, SERS was successfully achieved using the PC by detecting low concentrations of phenobarbital which is an antiepileptic drug using a commercially available portable Raman module. The PC can be fabricated by demolding the deposited gold layer from a polymer-based template. This method is rapid, economic, and has high reproducibility. SERS can be achieved easily using this PC for a wide variety of applications such as medical, pharmaceutical, and environmental protection.
Uniform Polishing Method of Spherical Lens Based on Material Removal Model of High-Speed Polishing Procedure
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Peng , Li Zexiao , Shen Yi , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: October 2020

Although the high-speed polishing technology has been widely applied to obtain an ultra-smooth surface in the field of spherical optical manufacture, it is still mainly used in small-size or easily polished lenses. In the infrared optical system, large-size silicon lenses are often used to increase the luminous flux. As is known, the material is hard-polished, it is time-consuming to reduce the surface roughness by iterative polishing and it is difficult to avoid the form accuracy getting worse. To produce an ultra-smooth surface efficiently without destroying the figure, a scientific understanding of material removal in the high-speed polishing process is necessary, which would lead to the process being more deterministic. In this paper, a mathematical model of material removal is developed based on the classic Preston equation. The predicted results of the proposed model show good agreement with the experimental data. Further, a method to achieve uniform polishing can be addressed with a systematic analysis of the key factors affecting material removal and their contribution to spatial non-uniform removal. Finally, the experimental results indicate that the surface roughness of hard-polished spherical optics can be improved efficiently using the uniform polishing method without the surface figure being destroyed.
Investigation of Age-Related Changes in the Skin Microbiota of Korean Women
Authors: Kim Minseok , Park Tansol , Yun Jung Im , Lim Hye Won , Han Na Rae , Lee Seung Tae
Published: October 2020

The microbiota of human skin is influenced by host and environmental factors. To determine if chronological age influences the composition of the skin microbiota on the forehead and hands, 73 Korean women were sorted into one of three age groups: (1) 10–29 years (n = 24), (2) 30–49 years (n = 21), and (3) 50–79 years (n = 28). From the 73 women, 146 skin samples (two skin sites per person) were collected. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was then conducted to analyze the skin microbiota. The overall microbial distribution varied on the forehead but was similar on the hands across the three age groups. In addition, the composition of the skin microbiota differed between the forehead and hands. Commensal microbiota, such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Cutibacterium, and Corynebacterium, which contribute to maintaining skin health via dominant occupation, were affected by increasing age on forehead and hand skin. Alpha diversity indices increased significantly with age on forehead skin. This study indicates that older people may be more susceptible to pathogenic invasions due to an imbalanced skin microbiota resulting from age-related changes. The results of our study may help develop new strategies to rebalance skin microbiota shifted during aging.
Prevotella in Pigs: The Positive and Negative Associations with Production and Health
Authors: Amat Samat , Lantz Hannah , Munyaka Peris M. , Willing Benjamin P.
Published: October 2020

A diverse and dynamic microbial community (known as microbiota) resides within the pig gastrointestinal tract (GIT). The microbiota contributes to host health and performance by mediating nutrient metabolism, stimulating the immune system, and providing colonization resistance against pathogens. Manipulation of gut microbiota to enhance growth performance and disease resilience in pigs has recently become an active area of research in an era defined by increasing scrutiny of antimicrobial use in swine production. In order to develop microbiota-targeted strategies, or to identify potential next-generation probiotic strains originating from the endogenous members of GIT microbiota in pigs, it is necessary to understand the role of key commensal members in host health. Many, though not all, correlative studies have associated members of the genus Prevotella with positive outcomes in pig production, including growth performance and immune response; therefore, a comprehensive review of the genus in the context of pig production is needed. In the present review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about the genus Prevotella in the intestinal microbial community of pigs, including relevant information from other animal species that provide mechanistic insights, and identify gaps in knowledge that must be addressed before development of Prevotella species as next-generation probiotics can be supported.
Culturable Bacterial Community on Leaves of Assam Tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) in Thailand and Human Probiotic Potential of Isolated Bacillus spp.
Authors: Rungsirivanich Patthanasak , Supandee Witsanu , Futui Wirapong , Chumsai-Na-Ayudhya Vipanee , Yodsombat Chaowarin , Thongwai Narumol
Published: October 2020

Assam tea plants (Camellia sinensis var. assamica) or Miang are found in plantations and forests of Northern Thailand. Leaf fermentation has been performed for centuries, but little information is available about their associated microbial community. One hundred and fifty-seven bacterial isolates were isolated from 62 Assam tea leaf samples collected from 6 provinces of Northern Thailand and classified within the phyla of Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria. Phayao and Phrae provinces exhibited the highest and the lowest bacterial diversities, respectively. The bacterial community structural pattern demonstrated significant differences between the west and the east sides. Since some Bacillus spp. have been reported to be involved in fermented Miang, Bacillus spp. isolated in this study were chosen for further elucidation. Bacillus siamensis ML122-2 exhibited a growth inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and MRSA DMST 20625, and the highest survival ability in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids (32.3 and 99.7%, respectively), autoaggregation (93.2%), cell surface hydrophobicity (50.0%), and bacterial adherence with Vero cells (75.8% of the control Lactiplantibacillusplantarum FM03-1). This B. siamensis ML122-2 is a promising probiotic to be used in the food industry and seems to have potential antibacterial properties relevant for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant infections.
Yogurt Produced by Novel Natural Starter Cultures Improves Gut Epithelial Barrier In Vitro
Authors: Popović Nikola , Brdarić Emilija , Đokić Jelena , Dinić Miroslav , Veljović Katarina , Golić Nataša , Terzić-Vidojević Amarela
Published: October 2020

Yogurt is a traditional fermented dairy product, prepared with starter cultures containing Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus that has gained widespread consumer acceptance as a healthy food. It is widely accepted that yogurt cultures have been recognized as probiotics, due to their beneficial effects on human health. In this study, we have characterized technological and health-promoting properties of autochthonous strains S. thermophilus BGKMJ1-36 and L. bulgaricus BGVLJ1-21 isolated from artisanal sour milk and yogurt, respectively, in order to be used as functional yogurt starter cultures. Both BGKMJ1-36 and BGVLJ1-21 strains have the ability to form curd after five hours at 42 °C, hydrolyze αs1-, β-, and κ- casein, and to show antimicrobial activity toward Listeria monocytogenes. The strain BGKMJ1-36 produces exopolysaccharides important for rheological properties of the yogurt. The colonies of BGKMJ1-36 and BGVLJ1-21 strains that successfully survived transit of the yogurt through simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions have been tested for adhesion to intestinal epithelial Caco-2 cells. The results reveal that both strains adhere to Caco-2 cells and significantly upregulate the expression of autophagy-, tight junction proteins-, and anti-microbial peptides-related genes. Hence, both strains may be interesting for use as a novel functional starter culture for production of added-value yogurt with health-promoting properties.
Evaluation of Filamentous Fungi and Yeasts for the Biodegradation of Sugarcane Distillery Wastewater
Authors: Chuppa-Tostain Graziella , Tan Melissa , Adelard Laetitia , Shum-Cheong-Sing Alain , François Jean-Marie , Caro Yanis , Petit Thomas
Published: October 2020

Sugarcane Distillery Spent Wash (DSW) is among the most pollutant industrial effluents, generally characterized by high Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), high mineral matters and acidic pH, causing strong environmental impacts. Bioremediation is considered to be a good and cheap alternative to DSW treatment. In this study, 37 strains of yeasts and filamentous fungi were performed to assess their potential to significantly reduce four parameters characterizing the organic load of vinasses (COD, pH, minerals and OD475nm). In all cases, a pH increase (until a final pH higher than 8.5, being an increase superior to 3.5 units, as compared to initial pH) and a COD and minerals removal could be observed, respectively (until 76.53% using Aspergillus terreus var. africanus and 77.57% using Aspergillus niger). Depending on the microorganism, the OD475nm could decrease (generally when filamentous fungi were used) or increase (generally when yeasts were used). Among the strains tested, the species from Aspergillus and Trametes genus offered the best results in the depollution of DSW. Concomitant with the pollutant load removal, fungal biomass, with yields exceeding 20 g·L−1, was produced.
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induced HeLa Cell Necrosis under UVA Radiation through the ROS-mPTP Pathway
Authors: Geng Runqing , Ren Yuanyuan , Rao Rong , Tan Xi , Zhou Hong , Yang Xiangliang , Liu Wei , Lu Qunwei
Published: October 2020

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (nano-TiO2), as a common nanomaterial, are widely used in water purification, paint, skincare and sunscreens. Its safety has always been a concern. Prior studies have shown that ultraviolet A (UVA) can exacerbate the toxicity of nano-TiO2, including inducing cell apoptosis, changing glycosylation levels, arresting cell cycle, inhibiting tumor cell and bacterial growth. However, whether the combination of UVA and nano-TiO2 cause cell necrosis and its mechanism are still rarely reported. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxicity and phototoxicity of mixture crystalline nano-TiO2 (25% rutile and 75% anatase, 21 nm) under UVA irradiation in HeLa cells. Our results showed that the abnormal membrane integrity and the ultrastructure of HeLa cells, together with the decreased viability induced by nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation, were due to cell necrosis rather than caspase-dependent apoptosis. Furthermore, nano-TiO2 and UVA generated the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and caused the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) of HeLa cells to abnormally open. Cell viability was significantly increased after adding vitamin C (VC) or cyclosporin A (CsA) individually to inhibit ROS and mPTP. Clearance of ROS could not only impede the opening of mPTP but also reduce the rate of cell necrosis. The results suggest the possible mechanism of HeLa cell necrosis caused by nano-TiO2 under UVA irradiation through the ROS-mPTP pathway.
Influences of Folate Supplementation on Homocysteine and Cognition in Patients with Folate Deficiency and Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Hama Yuka , Hamano Tadanori , Shirafuji Norimichi , Hayashi Kouji , Ueno Asako , Enomoto Soichi , Nagata Miwako , Kimura Hirohiko , Matsunaga Akiko , Ikawa Masamichi , Yamamura Osamu , Ito Tatsuhiko , Kimura Yohei , Kuriyama Masaru , Nakamoto Yasunari
Published: October 2020

Although folate deficiency was reported to be associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, influence of folate supplementation on cognition remains controversial. Therefore, we explored the effects of folate supplementation on the cognition and Homocysteine (Hcy) level in relatively short periods in patients with folate deficiency and cognitive impairment. Enrolled 45 patients (mean age of 79.7 ± 7.9 years old) with folate deficiency (<3.6 ng/mL) with cognitive impairment underwent Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and laboratory examinations, including folate, vitamin B12, and Hcy. The degree of hippocampal atrophy in MRI was estimated using a voxel-based specific regional analysis system for Alzheimer’s disease (VSRAD). Patients were administrated folate (5 mg/day), then Hcy, and MMSE score were re-examined after 28 to 63 days. Mean Hcy significantly decreased from 25.0 ± 18.0 to 11.0 ± 4.3 nmol/mL (p < 0.001). Average MMSE scores also significantly changed from 20.1 ± 4.7 to 22.2 ± 4.3 (p < 0.001). The degree of change in the MMSE score and basic Hcy or Hcy change was significantly positively correlated, while degree of hippocampal atrophy in MRI did not. Although several factors should be taken into account, folate supplementation ameliorated cognitive impairment, at least for a short period, in patients with folate deficiency.
Statistical and Machine-Learning Analyses in Nutritional Genomics Studies
Authors: Khorraminezhad Leila , Leclercq Mickael , Droit Arnaud , Bilodeau Jean-François , Rudkowska Iwona
Published: October 2020

Nutritional compounds may have an influence on different OMICs levels, including genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and metagenomics. The integration of OMICs data is challenging but may provide new knowledge to explain the mechanisms involved in the metabolism of nutrients and diseases. Traditional statistical analyses play an important role in description and data association; however, these statistical procedures are not sufficiently enough powered to interpret the large integrated multiple OMICs (multi-OMICS) datasets. Machine learning (ML) approaches can play a major role in the interpretation of multi-OMICS in nutrition research. Specifically, ML can be used for data mining, sample clustering, and classification to produce predictive models and algorithms for integration of multi-OMICs in response to dietary intake. The objective of this review was to investigate the strategies used for the analysis of multi-OMICs data in nutrition studies. Sixteen recent studies aimed to understand the association between dietary intake and multi-OMICs data are summarized. Multivariate analysis in multi-OMICs nutrition studies is used more commonly for analyses. Overall, as nutrition research incorporated multi-OMICs data, the use of novel approaches of analysis such as ML needs to complement the traditional statistical analyses to fully explain the impact of nutrition on health and disease.
Carbohydrate-Induced Insulin Signaling Activates Focal Adhesion Kinase: A Nutrient and Mechanotransduction Crossroads
Authors: Wilburn Dylan T. , Machek Steven B. , Cardaci Thomas D. , Willoughby Darryn S.
Published: October 2020

Research has suggested that nutrient, exercise, and metabolism-related proteins interact to regulate mammalian target of rapamycin complex one (mTOR) post-exercise and their interactions needs clarification. In a double-blind, cross-over, repeated measures design, ten participants completed four sets to failure at 70% of 1-repitition maximum (1-RM) with 45 s rest on angled leg press with or without pre-exercise maltodextrin (2 g/kg) after a 3 h fast. Vastus lateralis biopsies were collected at baseline before supplementation and 1 h post-exercise to analyze Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK), ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (p70S6K), insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), and 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation. FAK and IRS-1 activity were only elevated 1 h post-exercise with carbohydrate ingestion (p < 0.05). PI3K and p70S6K activation were both elevated after exercise in both conditions (p < 0.05). However, AMPK activity did not change from baseline in both conditions (p > 0.05). We conclude that FAK does not induce mTOR activation through PI3K crosstalk in response to exercise alone. In addition, FAK may not be regulated by AMPK catalytic activity, but this needs further research. Interestingly, carbohydrate-induced insulin signaling appears to activate FAK at the level of IRS-1 but did not enhance mTOR activity 1 h post-exercise greater than the placebo condition. Future research should investigate these interactions under different conditions and within different time frames to clearly understand the interactions between these signaling molecules.
Association of Plasma Total Cysteine and Anthropometric Status in 6–30 Months Old Indian Children
Authors: Schwinger Catherine , Chowdhury Ranadip , Sharma Shakun , Bhandari Nita , Taneja Sunita , Ueland Per M. , Strand Tor A.
Published: October 2020

High-quality protein has been associated with child growth; however, the role of the amino acid cysteine remains unclear. The aim was to measure the extent to which plasma total cysteine (tCys) concentration is associated with anthropometric status in children aged 6–30 months living in New Delhi, India. The study was a prospective cohort study including 2102 children. We calculated Z-scores for height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-height (WHZ), or weight-for-age (WAZ) according to the WHO Child Growth Standards. We used multiple regression models to estimate the association between tCys and the anthropometric indices. A high proportion of the children were categorized as malnourished at enrolment; 41% were stunted (HAZ ≤ −2), 19% were wasted (WHZ ≤ −2) and 42% underweight (WAZ ≤ −2). Plasma total cysteine (tCys) was significantly associated with HAZ, WHZ and WAZ after adjusting for relevant confounders (p < 0.001). Low tCys (≤25th percentile) was associated with a decrease of 0.28 Z-scores for HAZ, 0.10 Z-scores for WHZ, and 0.21 Z-scores for WAZ compared to being >25th percentile. In young Indian children from low-to-middle socioeconomic neighborhoods, a low plasma total cysteine concentration was associated with an increased risk of poor anthropometric status.
The Relationships between Total Protein Intake, Protein Sources, Physical Activity, and Lean Mass in a Representative Sample of the US Adults
Authors: Xu Furong , Earp Jacob E. , Vadiveloo Maya , Adami Alessandra , Delmonico Matthew J. , Lofgren Ingrid E. , Greaney Mary L.
Published: October 2020

Background: Although dietary protein and physical activity play essential roles in developing and preserving lean mass, studies exploring these relationships are inconsistent, and large-scale studies on sources of protein and lean mass are lacking. Accordingly, the present study examined the relationship between total protein intake, protein sources, physical activity, and lean mass in a representative sample of US adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 2011–2016 US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and corresponding Food Patterns Equivalents Database (n = 7547). Multiple linear regression models were performed to examine the sex-specific associations between total protein intake, protein sources (Dairy, Total Protein Foods, Seafood, and Plant Proteins), physical activity, and lean mass adjusting for demographics, weight status, and total daily energy intake. Results: Total protein intake was inversely related to lean mass in females only (Lean mass index: β= −0.84, 95%CI: −1.06–−0.62; Appendicular lean mass index: β= −0.35, 95%CI: −0.48–−0.22). However, protein sources and physical activity was positively associated with lean mass in males and/or females (p < 0.05). Conclusion. Study results suggest that consuming more protein daily had a detrimental influence on lean mass in females whereas eating high-quality sources of proteins and being physically active are important for lean mass for men and women. However, the importance of specific protein sources appears to differ by sex and warrants further investigation.
Effect of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Isometric Contraction-Induced Fatigue and Recovery: Potential Muscle-Fiber Specific Effects
Authors: Willems Mark E. T. , Bradley Megan , Blacker Sam D. , Perkins Ian C.
Published: October 2020

New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract has shown performance-enhancing effects during cycling, running and sport climbing. We examined effects of NZBC extract on (1) voluntary and twitch force of the quadriceps femoris muscles during repeated isometric contraction-induced fatigue, (2) twitch force during recovery and (3) muscle fiber-specific effects. Familiarized recreationally active males (n = 12, age: 24 ± 5 yrs; height: 180 ± 5 cm; body mass: 89 ± 11 kg) performed sixteen, 5-s voluntary maximal isometric contractions (iMVC) separated by 3-s rest. Twitch force was recorded before, during the 3-s rests and 5-min recovery. Supplementation consisted of 7-days intake of NZBC extract (600 mg∙day−1 containing 210 mg anthocyanin) in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover design with a 14-days washout. NZBC extract allowed for greater force in the first quartile of the iMVCs. Twitch force at baseline was 12% higher with NZBC extract (p = 0.05). However, there was no effect of NZBC for twitch force during the 16-iMVCs and recovery. Based on the maximum post-activation potentiation during the placebo 16-iMVCs, four subjects were classified of having a predominant type I or II muscle fiber typology. In type II, NZBC extract provided a trend for increased MVC force (~14%) in the first quartile and for type I in the fourth quartile (~10%). In type I, NZBC extract seemed to have higher twitch forces during the fatiguing exercise protocol and recovery, indicating increased fatigue resistance. New Zealand blackcurrant extract affects force during repeated maximal isometric contractions. Future work on mechanisms by NZBC extract for muscle fiber-specific fatigue-induced force responses is warranted.
Diffusing Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning in the EU
Authors: Werland Stefan
Published: October 2020

This paper explores how the European Commission promotes the concept of Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning (SUMP) among European cities. Despite the strong uptake of the SUMP concept, mobility-related problems persist in European municipalities. Linking theoretical approaches to understand the diffusion of policies with empirical findings from working with cities in the SUMP context, this article explores channels of policy diffusion and investigates shortcomings related to the respective approaches. Studies on the diffusion, the transfer and the convergence of policies identify formal hierarchy, coercion, competition, learning and networking, and the diffusion of international norms as channels for policy transfer. The findings which are presented in this paper are twofold: First, the paper finds evidence that the Commission takes different roles and uses all mechanisms in parallel, albeit with different intensity. It concludes that the approaches to explain policy diffusion are not competing or mutually exclusive but are applied by the same actor to address different aspects of a policy field, or to reach out to different actors. Second, the article provides first evidence of factors that limit the mechanisms’ abilities to directly influence urban mobility systems and mobility behaviour.
Whole Genome In-Silico Analysis of South African G1P[8] Rotavirus Strains before and after Vaccine Introduction over a Period of 14 Years
Authors: Mwangi Peter N. , Mogotsi Milton T. , Seheri Mapaseka L. , Mphahlele M. Jeffrey , Peenze Ina , Esona Mathew D. , Kumwenda Benjamin , Steele A. Duncan , Kirkwood Carl D. , Ndze Valantine N. , Dennis Francis E. , Jere Khuzwayo C. , Nyaga Martin M.
Published: October 2020

Rotavirus G1P[8] strains account for more than half of the group A rotavirus (RVA) infections in children under five years of age, globally. A total of 103 stool samples previously characterized as G1P[8] and collected seven years before and seven years after introducing the Rotarix® vaccine in South Africa were processed for whole-genome sequencing. All the strains analyzed had a Wa-like constellation (G1-P[8]-I1-R1-C1-M1-A1-N1-T1-E1-H1). South African pre- and post-vaccine G1 strains were clustered in G1 lineage-I and II while the majority (84.2%) of the P[8] strains were grouped in P[8] lineage-III. Several amino acid sites across ten gene segments with the exception of VP7 were under positive selective pressure. Except for the N147D substitution in the antigenic site of eight post-vaccine G1 strains when compared to both Rotarix® and pre-vaccine strains, most of the amino acid substitutions in the antigenic regions of post-vaccine G1P[8] strains were already present during the pre-vaccine period. Therefore, Rotarix® did not appear to have an impact on the amino acid differences in the antigenic regions of South African post-vaccine G1P[8] strains. However, continued whole-genome surveillance of RVA strains to decipher genetic changes in the post-vaccine period remains imperative.
Development of a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assay Targeting the Citrate Synthase Gene for Detection of Ehrlichia canis in Dogs
Authors: Chua Angela Patricia B. , Galay Remil L. , Tanaka Tetsuya , Yamazaki Wataru
Published: October 2020

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused by Ehrlichia canis is one of the leading tick-borne diseases of dogs, particularly in tropical countries. A highly sensitive and specific diagnostic method is essential for early detection to facilitate treatment. This study was conducted to develop E. canis loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay, a highly sensitive yet simple molecular technique, targeting the citrate synthase (gltA) gene of E. canis. Canine blood samples were subjected to conventional PCR targeting E. canis gltA. After analysis of the sequences of PCR amplicons, LAMP primers were generated. The optimum temperature and time for the LAMP assay were determined using eight samples—after which, the effectiveness and reproducibility of LAMP were verified by testing 40 samples, which included PCR-positive and negative samples. The detection limit was also established. The optimal condition for the assay was 61 °C for 60 min. Compared to PCR, the LAMP assay had a relative sensitivity and specificity of 92.5 and 100%, respectively. Statistical analysis using McNemar’s test showed that the E. canis LAMP assay has no significant difference with PCR. Therefore, the LAMP assay developed in this study may be used as an alternative to PCR in the detection of E. canis.
Family Reads Children’s Issue of Architecture-Focused Literary Magazine, Strongly Approves; Review of Soiled, Issue 8
Authors: Dodd Jeffrey
Published: October 2020

Soiled exists at the intersection of literature and architecture. Let me rephrase that. Soiled owns the intersection of literature and architecture. This artist-led, Chicago-based project, now offering its 8th issue, "narrates a playfully sincere and seriously humorous exploration of oft-overlooked dimensions of our built environment." Each issue is thematized around a different exploration and the works written and illustrated by architects and designers. Issue 8, "onceuponascrapers: architectural children's stories," is elegantly illustrated, delicately told, and intricately woven into one of the most exciting literary magazines I've encountered in some time.
Der Abwrackmarkt für Schiffe - Stand aktueller Entwicklungen
Authors: Schaak Theresa Fine , Reise Sönke
Published: October 2020

Schiffe haben eine übliche Nutzungsdauer von etwa 25 Jahren. Am Ende dieser Zeit können die meisten Bestandteile – vorrangig der Stahl – wiederverwendet werden. Dazu werden sie an Abwrackwerften verkauft, wo die Schiffe dann in Einzelteile zerlegt und aufbereitet werden. Dies geschieht derzeit unter fragwürdigen Umständen auf dem indischen Subkontinent. Der Beitrag analysiert die Hintergründe und den quantitativen Umfang dieser Praxis und nennt Bedingungen für ein zukünftiges umweltverträgliches Schiffsrecycling.
Cultura organizacional y estilos de gestión en organizaciones de salud
Authors: Parolin Marisa A.
Published: October 2020

La cultura es un activo estratégico cuya correcta gestión contribuye al logro de los resultados organizacionales. Los directivos y sus formas de conducción juegan un rol fundamental en este sentido. Esta tesis se centró en el análisis de los factores culturales de dos organizaciones pertenecientes a la red de salud pública de la Municipalidad de Rosario. Las mismas están inmersas en un contexto cambiante conformado por factores políticos, sociales, económicos y tecnológicos. El paradigma de la complejidad permitió analizar y entender como se gestionan estas instituciones caracterizadas por sus relaciones dialógicas, contradictorias y a veces, inciertas. Los casos fueron abordados a través de metodología cualitativa, utilizando como técnicas la observación directa, el análisis documental y las entrevistas en profundidad a los integrantes de los equipos de salud. El interrogante que se pretendió contestar fue la relación existente entre la cultura organizacional y los estilos de gestión. La cuestión central consistió en establecer como los factores culturales influyen sobre los comportamientos de los directivos y en qué medida los diversos estilos de los gestores logran influir y moldear la cultura de estas organizaciones. Las evidencias obtenidas permitieron mostrar una ínter influencia recíproca entre estilos y culturas.
La recuperación industrial del Aglomerado Gran Rosario a inicios del siglo XXI
Authors: Báscolo Paula J. , Ghilardi María Fernanda , Secreto María Florencia
Published: October 2020

El abandono de la convertibilidad trajo aparejado un cambio del régimen macroeconómico que contribuyó a la recuperación de la industria nacional y regional, luego de un periodo de pérdida de participación en el producto como consecuencia de políticas que no lo favorecieron. Así, la devaluación de 2002 marca un punto de inflexión en la evolución del sector industrial. En ese escenario de tipo de cambio real elevado, la recuperación de la industria se explicó fundamentalmente por el incremento de la “competitividad precio”. Si bien el cambio en el contexto macroeconómico era una condición para posibilitar una recuperación económica, ésta no es suficiente para hacer sustentable un proceso de crecimiento en el largo plazo. Desde el 2005, el aumento de los precios comenzó a erosionar sostenidamente la competitividad del tipo de cambio real, a través del incremento en los costos industriales. Dado que la industria fue el motor de desarrollo durante un largo lapso y, en los últimos años lideró la recuperación económica en la región, este trabajo busca analizar las características del crecimiento industrial en Rosario y el Aglomerado Gran Rosario (AGR) a partir de la devaluación y evaluar la evolución de indicadores que podrían afectar su desempeño futuro.
Ciudadanía fiscal y nuevas formas de relación entre contribuyentes y administración tributaria
Authors: Estévez Alejandro M. , Esper Susana C.
Published: October 2020

Usualmente, el cumplimiento fiscal ha sido explicado por el riesgo de la coerción. Este artículo analiza la nueva orientación de las administraciones tributarias, a fin de comprender cómo este hecho puede alentar la cultura tributaria de las sociedades, a través de la autorregulación y el cumplimiento voluntario. Aunque la mejora de la relación entre administración tributaria y el contribuyente no asegura en su totalidad, ni es la única manera para lograr el cumplimiento tributario, si constituye un factor determinante para aumentar la voluntad de cooperación de cada contribuyente y su intención en colaborar con su esfuerzo individual al sostenimiento de una sociedad general.
Mercado internacional de carne vacuna: evolución reciente de los flujos comerciales y situación de Argentina
Authors: Alonso Carlos , Szpak Carolina
Published: October 2020

El presente artículo detalla el comercio mundial de carne vacuna en el período 2006-2015. El análisis de los flujos comerciales permite identificar la existencia de importantes jugadores a nivel país, cierta concentración de mercado tanto desde la oferta como desde la demanda en todas las posiciones arancelarias involucradas y la presencia de un patrón regional de comercio. No obstante lo anterior, algunos países se diferencian de este comportamiento como es el caso de los exportadores del Cono Sur que acceden a mercados como Rusia, China, Hong Kong y Angola, o de Estados Unidos y Australia. Al comparar la situación entre los países del Mercosur, se obtiene como resultado por un lado, un desigual comportamiento de Argentina respecto de sus socios comerciales y por otro, la relevancia que adquirieron ciertos destinos para Brasil, Uruguay y Paraguay.
Model to increase foreign tourism to Michoacán
Authors: MOLINA-MARTINEZ Rubén , CHAVEZ-CHAVEZ Amparo Guadalupe
Published: October 2020

This paper presents the results of an investigation about the foreign tourist affluence in the state of Michoacán. The objective of the research is to identify the main causes of the lack of growth in the tourist influx in Michoacán. A survey was carried out in which a questionnaire was applied to 380 foreign tourists who visited the state in the period of October-November 2019. A Likert scale was used and for the analysis of the results the SPSS program (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences). The obtained results showed that the low tourist competitiveness, the lack of investment in the tourist infrastructure and the little diversification in the tourist offer have prevented the increase of the tourist affluence in the state. Finally, a Comprehensive Tourism Planning Model was proposed as a solution to the detected problem.
Uitsiton: wearable for mobility of the visually impaired
Authors: BUENDÍA-MARTÍNEZ Adrian , GALLARDO-LÓPEZ Lizbeth
Published: October 2020

This article explains the development of the Uitsiton system, capable of detecting obstacles to alert visually impaired users, increasing their mobility and confidence when moving. Uitsiton is made up of a portable electronic device (wearable) and a mobile application (App) that operates under the Android platform. The wearable is integrated into a vest-like garment. It is used to compute the approximate distance between the visually impaired user and the obstacles that they can find in their path. The wearable covers a range of 180 degrees vertically and horizontally with respect to the center of the torso, and reaches a maximum distance of 120 cm. The App works synchronously with the wearable, it receives a series of data corresponding to the measurements of the distance between the user and the obstacle, and it triggers a sound pattern and a vibration pattern according to the proximity of the obstacle.
Assessment of the reclamation conditions of irrigated areas by geospatial analysis and recommendations for their improvement
Authors: Matyakubov Bakhtiyar , Mamatkulov Zokhid , Oymatov Rustam , Komilov Ulugbek , Eshchanova Guzal
Published: October 2020

This research focuses on determination of irrigation — drainage networks conditions, salinity of irrigated areas in Shavat district of Khorezm region (Uzbekistan) by geospatial analysis and giving recommendations for their elimination. Additionally, obtaining monthly ground truth data from observation wells and interpolate them with IDW interpolation algorithm methods of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies in order to monitoring changes of groundwater level and mineralization in vegetation period of main agricultural crops are highlighted. Besides that, by using remote sensing technologies, the obtained data about the irrigation regime was determined in agricultural areas. As a result of the usage of GIS and RS methods, there have been created thematic maps on analysing salinity of soils, the actual condition of irrigation and collector of networks, actual level and mineralization of groundwater as well as their dynamic changes. On the basis of the obtained results, there have been given recommendations for improving the conditions of ameliorative arable lands on keeping the level of groundwater at a specified depth and cultivation of agricultural crops in periods of water scarcity.
Use of remote sensing Earth data for regional assessment of winter wheat grain quality
Authors: Eroshenko Fedor , Storchak Irina , Engovatova Irina , Likhovid Natalia
Published: October 2020

To improve the sustainability of grain production at the regional level, reliable and operational methods for monitoring the state of crops during the entire growing season, as well as methods for early prediction of not only yield, but also the quality of winter wheat grain are needed. For this, satellite data of the seasonal dynamics of the vegetation index NDVI are used, which allows one to evaluate the physiological state of crops and the size of the future crop. The purpose of research is to identify the relationship between the data of remote sensing of the Earth and winter wheat quality indicators for the conditions of the Stavropol Territory. This work was carried out in the Department of Plant Physiology of the North-Caucasian Federal Scientific and Agricultural Agrarian Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution together with the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Data on grain quality in the Stavropol Territory for the period from 2003 to 2018 were provided by the Stavropol branch of the Federal Center for the Safety and Quality Assessment of Grain and its Processing Products. Vegetation indices NDVI obtained using the VEGA service IKI RAS. An analysis of the data showed that the maximum correlation coefficient of NDVI with the amount of grains of the 2nd and 3rd classes was 0.83 with a minus sign in the phase of formation of the grain. With the amount of food grain, the maximum feedback is observed in the phase of the resumption of spring vegetation (correlation coefficients -0.62). The dynamics of the forecast of winter wheat grain quality in the Stavropol Territory in 2018 has a fairly wide range of changes, which is associated with the conditions of plant growth and development. For the conditions of the Stavropol Territory, the closest correlation between the vegetative index NDVI of winter wheat crops and quality indicators is observed from 10 to 22 calendar weeks. When analyzing the relationship of quality indicators with average NDVI values in different months of the growing season, close feedback was revealed for April, May, June, and also for the period April-May.
Organization support for automation of land management projecting in irrigated areas of Uzbekistan
Authors: Babajanov Allabergan , Abdivaitov Khudoyberdi
Published: October 2020

The article describes in detail the ways in which agricultural enterprises operating in irrigated regions, including farms, create automated systems for the development and implementation of internal land management projects, the use of specialized expert systems based on artificial intelligence in assessing projects and their economic efficiency. Geographical information for the internal organization of farmland, in particular, the design of irrigation plots, crop rotations, forest plantations, field paths and irrigation canals, which are key elements in the territorial arrangement of the proposed sowing areas; ways to create such projects with wide application of GIS technologies in a short amount of time at low cost, as well as promptly eliminate deficiencies identified by expert systems. It is explained that the introduction of expert systems based on artificial intelligence into the practice of projecting of land management is more cost-effective than traditional estimation methods.
The soil-adjusted vegetation index for soil salinity assessment in Uzbekistan
Authors: Teshaev Nozimjon , Mamadaliyev Bunyod , Ibragimov Azamjon , Khasanov Sayidjakhon
Published: October 2020

Soil salinization, as one of the threats of land degradation, is the main environmental issue in Uzbekistan due to its aridic climate. One of the most vulnerable areas to soil salinization is Sirdarya province in Uzbekistan. The main human-induced causes of soil salinization are the insufficient operation of drainage and irrigation systems, irregular observations of the agronomic practices, and non-efficient on-farm water use. All of these causes considerably interact with the level of the groundwater, leading to an increase in the level of soil salinity. The availability of historical data on actual soil salinity in agricultural lands helps in formulating validated generic state-of-the-art approaches to control and monitor soil salinization by remote sensing and geo-information technologies. In this paper, we hypothesized that the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index-based results in soil salinity assessment give statistically valid illustrations and salinity patterns. As a study area, the Mirzaabad district was taken to monitor soil salinization processes since it is the most susceptible territory of Sirdarya province to soil salinization and provides considerably less agricultural products. We mainly formulated this paper based on the secondary data, as we downloaded satellite images and conducted an experiment against the in-situ method of soil salinity assessment using the Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index. As a result, highly saline areas decreased by a factor of two during the studied period (2005–2014), while non-saline areas increased remarkably from a negligible value to over 10 000 ha. Our study showed that arable land suitability for agricultural purposes has been improving year by year, and our research held on this district also proved that there was a gradual decrease in high salt contents on the soil surface and land quality has been improved. The methodology has proven to be statistically valid and significant to be applied to other arid zones for the assessment of soil salinity. We assume that our methodology is surely considered as a possible vegetation index to evaluate salt content in arable land of either Uzbekistan or other aridic zones and our hypothesis is not rejected by this research.
El constructivismo en las concepciones pedagógicas y epistemológicas de los profesores
Authors: Vargas Kenia , Acuña John
Published: October 2020

In recent years, pedagogical constructivism has enjoyed great popularity, so that many people recognize themselves as constructivists. In the literature it was found that many teachers reported having conceptions aligned to this paradigm, however, the results are contradictory in this regard. In this sense, the purpose of this work was to deepen the results of such research on teaching conceptions, specifically tracing a constructivist view of their practice, as well as the recommendations that the experts have made with regard to these results. A systematic review of the literature was carried out. Documents were searched in the Dialnet database. After applying different filters and assessing the relevance of the articles, 13 works were admitted for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Among the main results, it is emphasized that teachers maintain epistemological and pedagogical conceptions formed by different paradigms, which are not always coherent with each other, but present diffuse limits. For this reason, interventions are recommended that: 1) review paradigmatic differences at the theoretical level, 2) allow teachers to reflect on their conceptions and help them to externalize them, and 3) implement practical models in accordance with institutionally desirable scientific or pedagogical paradigms. It presents theoretical material organized with respect to constructivism to guide the first two phases.