bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitating Adaptive Forest Management under Climate Change: A Spatially Specific Synthesis of 125 Species for Habitat Changes and Assisted Migration over the Eastern United States
Authors: Iverson Louis R. , Prasad Anantha M. , Peters Matthew P. , Matthews Stephen N.
Published: November 2019

We modeled and combined outputs for 125 tree species for the eastern United States, using habitat suitability and colonization potential models along with an evaluation of adaptation traits. These outputs allowed, for the first time, the compilation of tree species’ current and future potential for each unit of 55 national forests and grasslands and 469 1 × 1 degree grids across the eastern United States. A habitat suitability model, a migration simulation model, and an assessment based on biological and disturbance factors were used with United States Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis data to evaluate species potential to migrate or infill naturally into suitable habitats over the next 100 years. We describe a suite of variables, by species, for each unique geographic unit, packaged as summary tables describing current abundance, potential future change in suitable habitat, adaptability, and capability to cope with the changing climate, and colonization likelihood over 100 years. This resulting synthesis and summation effort, culminating over two decades of work, provides a detailed data set that incorporates habitat quality, land cover, and dispersal potential, spatially constrained, for nearly all the tree species of the eastern United States. These tables and maps provide an estimate of potential species trends out 100 years, intended to deliver managers and publics with practical tools to reduce the vast set of decisions before them as they proactively manage tree species in the face of climate change.
Calibration and Assessment of Burned Area Simulation Capability of the LPJ-WHyMe Model in Northeast China
Authors: Yue Dandan , Zhang Junhui , Sun Guodong , Han Shijie
Published: November 2019

Fire isone of the major forest disturbances in northeast China.In this study, simulations of the burned area in northeast Chinafrom 1997 to 2015 were conducted with the Lund–Potsdam–Jena wetland hydrology and methane (LPJ-WHyMe) model. The fire modeling ability in northeast China was assessed by calibrating parameters in the model. The parameters in the model were calibrated against the satellite-based global fire product (Global Fire Emission Database, version 4.1 (GFEDv4)) for the simulated burned area over the calibration period (1997–2010). Compared to the results with the uncalibrated parameters, the results obtained with the calibrated parameters in the LPJ-WHyMe model better described the spatial and interannual variability of the burned area. The spatial correlation coefficient between the GFEDv4 and the simulations increased from −0.14 for the uncalibrated version to 0.46 for the calibrated version over the calibration period. The burned area simulation ability was also improvedover the validation period (2011–2015), and the spatial correlation coefficient between the GFEDv4 and the simulations increased from 0.20 for the uncalibrated version to 0.60 for the calibrated version. The mean absolute error (MAE) between the GFEDv4 and the simulations decreased from 0.018 for the uncalibrated version to 0.011 for the calibrated version (a decrease of 39%) over the calibration period and decreased from 0.020 to 0.016 (a decrease of 20%) over the validation period. Further numerical results showed that the improved simulation abilitiesof soil moisture and total aboveground litterhad an important contribution to improving the burned area simulation ability.Sensitivity analysis suggested that determining the uncertainty ranges for parameters in northeast China was important to further improving the burned area simulation ability in northeast China.
Estimated Sediment Protection Efficiences for Increasing Levels of Best Management Practices on Forest Harvests in the Piedmont, USA
Authors: Cristan Richard , Aust W. Michael , Bolding M. Chad , Barrett Scott M.
Published: November 2019

In-stream watershed level evaluations confirm that application of recommended forestry best management practices (BMPs) can minimize sedimentation following management, while on-site erosion research shows that BMPs reduce erosion from individual forest operations, thus implying watershed-level sediment reductions. Assessments of forest operations and sediment have developed very few sediment delivery ratios (SDR). Linking BMP levels (low, standard recommendation, high) within specific forest operations to sedimentation could enable managers to evaluate BMP effects. Reported data regarding forest operations, erosion rates and SDR by forest operation, and BMP implementation levels were sufficient within the Piedmont region to allow approximations of sediment delivery and BMP efficiency. Existing United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service reports and published erosion and sediment research were used to comprise the following method. For regional annual harvests, estimated sediment deliveries (Mg year−1) = annual harvest area (ha year−1) × weighted average erosion rate from all forest operations (Mg ha−1 year−1) × SDR (unitless ratio). Weighted average erosion rates for all forest operations were determined by applying areas in each operational activity (%) × estimated erosion per operation (Mg ha−1 year−1). In comparing published data, standard BMPs reduced estimated sedimentation by 75% compared to low BMP implementation levels. This supports forestry BMP efficiency findings reported for sediment removals in watershed studies. Higher levels of BMP implementation were estimated to potentially remove nearly all forest operation-produced sediment. Values of this pilot study should be viewed cautiously, as estimates were based on limited data, estimated operations, and limited SDRs; are based on BMP categories that vary between states; and address only one year following harvests. However, the approach provided approximations that facilitate BMP evaluations and can be improved with additional data. This methodology highlights the importance of accurate estimates of erosion rates, SDRs, sediment masses, and area for operations. This supports the importance of state programs, which have increased BMP implementation rates and compliance options with BMP program maturation.
Introduction to the Special Issue: Foods of Plant Origin
Authors: Sultanbawa Yasmina , Netzel Michael E.
Published: November 2019

Plant food is usually rich in health-promoting ingredients such as polyphenols, carotenoids, betalains, glucosinolates, vitamins, minerals and fibre. However, pre- and post-harvest treatment, processing and storage can have significant effects on the concentration and composition of these bioactive ingredients. Furthermore, the plant food matrix in fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds is very different and can affect digestibility, bioavailability, processing properties and subsequently the nutritional value of the fresh and processed food. The Special Issue ‘Foods of Plant Origin’ covers biodiscovery, functionality, the effect of different cooking/preparation methods on bioactive (plant food) ingredients, and strategies to improve the nutritional quality of plant food by adding other food components using novel/alternative food sources or applying non-conventional preparation techniques.
Compositional Analysis of Non-Polar and Polar Metabolites in 14 Soybeans Using Spectroscopy and Chromatography Tools
Authors: Kotha Raghavendhar R. , Natarajan Savithiry , Wang Dechun , Luthria Devanand L.
Published: November 2019

There has been significant interest in soybean oil, fatty acid, and sugar composition to develop new value-added soybean products. Thus, compositional analysis is critical for developing value-added soybeans. In the present study, we showed simple screening tools (near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC)) coupled with multivariate analysis for the sample classification of 14 soybeans as a proof-of-concept. We further determined major non-polar and polar metabolites responsible for differences between different soybeans using gas and ion chromatography. These differences in soybean profiles were attributed to lower levels of total oil content in wild soybeans (~9%) versus cultivated soybeans (16%–22%). In addition, higher levels of linolenic acid (~17%) and stachyose (~53%) were determined in wild type, whereas higher levels of oleic acid (~19%) and sucrose (~59%) were detected in cultivated soybeans. Interestingly, one cultivated soybean had a desirable sugar profile with a high amount of sucrose (86%) and a low abundance of stachyose (9%). The correlation studies showed a positive correlation between oil and soluble sugars (R2 = 0.80) and negative correlations between methyl linolenate and soluble sugars (R2 = −0.79), oil (R2 = −0.94), and methyl oleate (R2 = −0.94) content. Both polar and non-polar metabolites showed significant differences in wild and cultivated soybeans.
Relativistic Jets in Gamma-Ray-Emitting Narrow-Line Seyfert 1 Galaxies
Authors: D’Ammando Filippo
Published: November 2019

Before the launch of the Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope satellite only two classes of active galactic nuclei (AGN) were known to generate relativistic jets and thus to emit up to the γ -ray energy range: blazars and radio galaxies, both hosted in giant elliptical galaxies. The discovery by the Large Area Telescope (LAT) on-board the Fermi satellite of variable γ -ray emission from a few radio-loud narrow-line Seyfert 1 galaxies (NLSy1) revealed the presence of an emerging third class of AGN with powerful relativistic jets. Considering that NLSy1 are usually hosted in late-type galaxies with relatively small black hole masses, this finding opened new challenging questions about the nature of these objects, the disc/jet connection, the emission mechanisms at high energies, and the formation of relativistic jets. In this review, I will discuss the broad-band properties of the γ -ray-emitting NLSy1 included in the Fourth Fermi LAT source catalog, highlighting major findings and open questions regarding jet physics, black hole mass estimation, host galaxy and accretion process of these sources in the Fermi era.
Genome-Wide Association Analyses of Equine Metabolic Syndrome Phenotypes in Welsh Ponies and Morgan Horses
Authors: Norton Elaine , Schultz Nichol , Geor Ray , McFarlane Dianne , Mickelson James , McCue Molly
Published: November 2019

Equine metabolic syndrome (EMS) is a complex trait for which few genetic studies have been published. Our study objectives were to perform within breed genome-wide association analyses (GWA) to identify associated loci in two high-risk breeds, coupled with meta-analysis to identify shared and unique loci between breeds. GWA for 12 EMS traits identified 303 and 142 associated genomic regions in 264 Welsh ponies and 286 Morgan horses, respectively. Meta-analysis demonstrated that 65 GWA regions were shared across breeds. Region boundaries were defined based on a fixed-size or the breakdown of linkage disequilibrium, and prioritized if they were: shared between breeds or across traits (high priority), identified in a single GWA cohort (medium priority), or shared across traits with no SNPs reaching genome-wide significance (low priority), resulting in 56 high, 26 medium, and seven low priority regions including 1853 candidate genes in the Welsh ponies; and 39 high, eight medium, and nine low priority regions including 1167 candidate genes in the Morgans. The prioritized regions contained protein-coding genes which were functionally enriched for pathways associated with inflammation, glucose metabolism, or lipid metabolism. These data demonstrate that EMS is a polygenic trait with breed-specific risk alleles as well as those shared across breeds.
Gut Microbiota Influences Experimental Outcomes in Mouse Models of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Leystra Alyssa A. , Clapper Margie L.
Published: November 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Mouse models are a valuable resource for use throughout the development and testing of new therapeutic strategies for CRC. Tumorigenesis and response to therapy in humans and mouse models alike are influenced by the microbial communities that colonize the gut. Differences in the composition of the gut microbiota can confound experimental findings and reduce the replicability and translatability of the resulting data. Despite this, the contribution of resident microbiota to preclinical tumor models is often underappreciated. This review does the following: (1) summarizes evidence that the gut microbiota influence CRC disease phenotypes; (2) outlines factors that can influence the composition of the gut microbiota; and (3) provides strategies that can be incorporated into the experimental design, to account for the influence of the microbiota on intestinal phenotypes in mouse models of CRC. Through careful experimental design and documentation, mouse models can continue to rapidly advance efforts to prevent and treat colon cancer.
Fine-Mapping Array Design for Multi-Ethnic Studies of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Beecham Ashley H. , McCauley Jacob L.
Published: November 2019

While approximately 200 autosomal genetic associations outside of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) have been identified for multiple sclerosis (MS) risk in European populations, causal variants identified at the majority of these associated loci have been much more elusive. We propose that knowledge gained from replication efforts in Hispanic and African American populations can be utilized to more efficiently fine-map these risk loci. To this end, we have customized a genotyping array by adding ~20,000 bead types (~17,000 variants) to the base content of the Ilumina Infinium expanded multi-ethnic genotyping array and the Infinium ImmunoArray-24 v2 BeadChip. These custom bead types were chosen to allow for the detection of causal variation (1) in the presence of allelic and locus heterogeneity, by incorporating regulatory and coding variation within 1-Mb of previously identified risk variants and (2) in the absence of allelic and locus heterogeneity by incorporation of variants using linkage disequilibrium criteria, which are based on knowledge of replication status in Hispanic and African American study samples. This array has been designed to maximize fine-mapping potential for currently identified MS susceptibility loci, particularly in multi-ethnic populations. The strategies described here could be additionally informative for fine-mapping of other disease phenotypes.
Physical Map of FISH 5S rDNA and (AG3T3)3 Signals Displays Chimonanthus campanulatus R.H. Chang & C.S. Ding Chromosomes, Reproduces its Metaphase Dynamics and Distinguishes Its Chromosomes
Authors: Luo Xiaomei , Chen Jingyuan
Published: November 2019

Chimonanthus campanulatus R.H. Chang & C.S. Ding is a good horticultural tree because of its beautiful yellow flowers and evergreen leaves. In this study, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to analyse mitotic metaphase chromosomes of Ch. campanulatus with 5S rDNA and (AG3T3)3 oligonucleotides. Twenty-two small chromosomes were observed. Weak 5S rDNA signals were observed only in proximal regions of two chromosomes, which were adjacent to the (AG3T3)3 proximal signals. Weak (AG3T3)3 signals were observed on both chromosome ends, which enabled accurate chromosome counts. A pair of satellite bodies was observed. (AG3T3)3 signals displayed quite high diversity, changing in intensity from weak to very strong as follows: far away from the chromosome ends (satellites), ends, subtelomeric regions, and proximal regions. Ten high-quality spreads revealed metaphase dynamics from the beginning to the end and the transition to anaphase. Chromosomes gradually grew larger and thicker into linked chromatids, which grew more significantly in width than in length. Based on the combination of 5S rDNA and (AG3T3)3 signal patterns, ten chromosomes were exclusively distinguished, and the remaining twelve chromosomes were divided into two distinct groups. Our physical map, which can reproduce dynamic metaphase progression and distinguish chromosomes, will powerfully guide cytogenetic research on Chimonanthus and other trees.
Coupled Zircon-Rutile U-Pb Chronology: LA ICP-MS Dating, Geological Significance and Applications to Sediment Provenance in the Eastern Himalayan-Indo-Burman Region
Authors: Bracciali Laura
Published: November 2019

U-Pb dating by LA ICP-MS is one of the most popular and successful isotopic techniques available to the Earth Sciences to constrain timing and rates of geological processes thanks to its high spatial resolution, good precision (absolute U/Pb age resolution of ca. 2%, 2s), rapidity and relative affordability. The significant and continuous improvement of instrumentation and approaches has opened new fields of applications by extending the range of minerals that can be dated by this method. Following the development and distribution to the community of good quality reference materials in the last decade, rutile U-Pb thermochronology (with a precision only slightly worse than zircon) has become a commonly used method to track cooling of deep-seated rocks. Its sensitivity to mid- to low-crustal temperatures (~450 °C to 650 °C) is ideal to constrain exhumation in active and ancient orogens as well as thermal evolution of slow-cooled terranes. Recrystallization and secondary growth during metamorphism and the presence of grain boundary fluids can also affect the U-Pb isotopic system in rutile. A growing body of research focusing on U-Pb dating of rutile by LA ICP-MS is greatly improving our understanding of the behavior of this mineral with regards to retention of radiogenic Pb. This is key to fully exploit its potential as a tracker of geological processes. The latest developments in this field are reviewed in this contribution. The combined application of U-Pb zircon and rutile chronology in provenance studies, particularly when complemented by lower-T thermochronometry data, allows the isotopic characterization of the sources across a wide range of temperatures. The benefits of applying detrital zircon-rutile U-Pb chronology as a coupled provenance proxy are presented here, with a focus on the Eastern Himalayan-Indo-Burman region, where a growing number of successful studies employs such an approach to help constrain river drainage and basin evolution and to infer feedback relationships between erosion, tectonics and climate.
An Assessment of Stress States in Passive Margin Sediments: Iterative Hydro-Mechanical Simulations on Basin Models and Implications for Rock Failure Predictions
Authors: Bouziat Antoine , Guy Nicolas , Frey Jérémy , Colombo Daniele , Colin Priscille , Cacas-Stentz Marie-Christine , Cornu Tristan
Published: November 2019

Capturing the past and present hydro-mechanical behavior of passive margin sediments raises noticeable interest, notably in geo-hazard risk assessment and hydrocarbon exploration. In this work, we aim at assessing the stress states undergone by these sedimentary deposits through geological time. To do so, we use an iterative coupling between a basin simulator and a finite element mechanical solver. This method conciliates a computation of the full stress tensors with a dynamic and geologically detailed modelling of the sedimentation. It is carried out on a dedicated set of 2D synthetic basin models, designed to be representative of siliciclastic deposition in passive margins and integrating variations in their geological history. Contrary to common assumptions in operational basin modelling studies, our results imply that passive margin sedimentary wedges are multidimensional mechanical systems, which endure significant non-vertical stress without external tectonic input. Our results also highlight the variability of the stress states through space and time, with a strong control from the geometry and lithological heterogeneities of the deposits. Lastly, we used the simulation results to predict a location and timing for the development of weakness zones in the sedimentary stacks, as privileged areas for rock failure. The outcome underlines the influence of the basal tilt angle, with a slight tilt impacting the wedges stability to a similar extent as a substantial increase in sedimentation rate. Altogether, this study emphasizes the need for careful consideration of non-vertical stresses in basin simulations, including in passive tectonic contexts. It also suggests that the iterative coupling method employed is a promising way to match industrial needs in this regard.
On the Suitability and Potential of Nursing Care Discussion Forums as a Health Promotion Measure for Long-Distance Caregiving Relatives: Evidence from Upper Austria
Authors: Fischer Tatjana , Jobst Markus
Published: November 2019

Background: The number of persons who have to overcome extensive geographical distances for caring for their older parent(s), hereinafter referred to as long-distance caregiving relatives (LDCs), is rising. However, in the non-English-speaking Global North, little is known about the LDCs’ health literacy and the design of tailor-made health promotion measures for this target-group. Using the example of nursing care discussion forums (NCDF), this paper reflects the requirements and (future) potential of professionally-lead support groups for LDCs on the case-study example of Upper Austria. Methods: In order to approach this unexplored topic considering spatial-related aspects, a qualitative-explorative study design was chosen, focusing on the providers’ perspective. A written survey among all NCDF-group leaders was carried out. Results: LDCs do not make use of NCDFs at present. It is considered that this is above all for time constraints, lack of information and location-based problems of fit. This applies for urban as well as rural contexts. Conclusions: LDCs need more attention in public health. Suitable NCDFs have to be located in the LCDs’ residential municipalities and have to fulfill different requirements from those of local caregiving relatives, particularly with regard to purpose and scope.
Antioxidant Chemical Treatment Affects Physiology and Quality of Minimally-processed Escarole
Authors: Soares Carlos Dornelles Ferreira , Martin José Guilherme Prado , Berno Natalia Dallocca , Kluge Ricardo Alfredo
Published: November 2019

This study evaluated the effect of antioxidant application on quality and physiological aspects of minimally-processed escarole (Cichorium endivia var. latifolia L.) stored at 0 °C and 90–95% relative humidity for 21 d. After minimal processing, leaves were immersed for 5 min in the following solutions: deionized water-control (CT), 1% ascorbic acid (AA), 1% citric acid (CA), 1% oxalic acid (OA), and 2% ethylenediamine-tetraacetic acid (EDTA). Excess water was removed and they were then packed in trays of expanded polystyrene and stored at 0 °C and 90–95% relative humidity for 21 d. Analyses were performed on day 0, after 1 h of processing, and then at intervals of 3 d. The 1% CA treatment maintained the highest levels of endogenous ascorbic acid and pigment content, as well as the lowest values of weight loss and Browning Index (BI). Microbiological development was within the limits established during storage for all treatments. Total phenolic compound content and the activity of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase enzymes showed variations among treatments. Observing all results, it was concluded that 1% CA was the best antioxidant for the maintenance of the quality attributes of minimally-processed escarole for up to 21 d in cold storage at 0 °C.
Impact of PM2.5 on Second Birth Intentions of China’s Floating Population in a Low Fertility Context
Authors: Guo Wei , Tan Yan , Yin Xican , Sun Zhongwei
Published: November 2019

The total fertility rate of the Chinese population has declined dramatically over the last three decades. Research has substantiated the causal link between particulate matter (PM) and adverse health effects. However, the impact of PM on the birth intentions or fertility behavior of the childbearing population remains understudied. The paper analyzes the impact of PM2.5 concentration (a mixture of extremely small solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air) on the second birth intentions of the Chinese floating population. We used urban migrant population matching data at the prefectural level for the analysis. The unique datasets were derived from the Chinese Floating Population Dynamic Survey in 2014 administered by the National Health Commission, the National Prefecture-level City Matching Data administered by the National Bureau of Statistics of China, and the air pollution index PM2.5 collected by the Green Peace Organization. The results show that PM2.5 concentration has a negative impact on the second birth intentions of the floating population. This impact exhibits marked regional heterogeneity: the desire for a second birth across migrant groups living in south China decreases if PM2.5 concentration goes up, while migrants coming from, and living in, north China show strong intentions to have a second birth despite an increase in PM2.5 concentration in northern cities. The results have direct implications for the Chinese government at various levels to play a vital role in making and implementing environmental policies on the mitigation of smog to effectively safeguard the health of individuals and communities and potentially raise China’s fertility rate.
Ten-Year Follow-Up of Clinical Governance Implementation in Primary Care: Improving Screening, Diagnosis and Control of Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Aguilar Martín Carina , Gonçalves Alessandra Queiroga , López-Pablo Carlos , Fernández-Sáez José , Forcadell Drago Emma , Hernández Rojas Zojaina , Pepió Vilaubí Josep Maria , Rodríguez Cumplido Dolores , Piñol Josep Lluis , Bladé-Creixenti Jordi , Dalmau Llorca Maria Rosa
Published: November 2019

Current improvement strategies for the control of cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs) in Europe are based on quality management policies. With the aim of understanding the effect of interventions delivered by primary healthcare systems, we evaluated the impact of clinical governance on cardiovascular health after ten years of implementation in Catalonia. A cohort study that included 1878 patients was conducted in 19 primary care centres (PCCs). Audits that comprised 13 cardiovascular health indicators were performed and general practitioners received periodic (annual, biannual or monthly) feedback about their clinical practice. We evaluated improvement in screening, diagnosis and control of the main CRFs and the effects of the feedback on cardiovascular risk (CR), incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and mortality, comparing baseline data with data at the end of the study (after a 10-year follow-up). The impact of the intervention was assessed globally and with respect to feedback frequency. General improvement was observed in screening, percentage of diagnoses and control of CRFs. At the end of the study, few clinically significant differences in CRFs were observed between groups. However, the reduction in CR was greater in the group receiving high frequency feedback, specifically in relation to smoking and control of diabetes and cholesterol (Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and High Density Lipoprotein (HDL)). A protective effect of having a cardiovascular event (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.44–0.94) or death (HR = 0.55, 95% CI = 0.35–0.88) was observed in patients from centres where general practitioners received high frequency feedback. Additionally, these PCCs presented improved cardiovascular health indicators and lower incidence and mortality by CVD, illustrating the impact of this intervention.
Who Is Happier in China? Exploring Determinant Factors Using Religion as a Moderator
Authors: Sun Yingying , Zhang Yue
Published: November 2019

The relationship between religion and happiness has been seriously understudied in non-Western and non-Islamic societies. Taking religious identity and religious practice as strata, the 2015 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) data were used to examine the predicting power of health, politics, and social relationships with regard to happiness in four different groups, as follows: People with a religious identity and practice, people with no religious identity but with a practice, people with a religious identity but no practice, and people with neither a religious identity nor practice. Multiple regression analyses were conducted using the Ordinary Least Squares method. The results demonstrate the influence of the independent variables in the four groups, thus confirming the expectation that different religious practices, as well as identities, play a vital role in moderating the degree of happiness. Physical and mental health are significant predictors of happiness regardless of different religious situations, with the effect of mental health here found to be greater in magnitude on happiness than that of physical health. Political participation was not found to be related to happiness, but having a left-wing political attitude did emerge as strongly predicting happiness. The results concerning social relationships further consolidate the hypothesis that religious practice should be taken into consideration separately from religious identity. This study indicates the importance of further investigating religious practice as an independent factor in religious studies in the context of Chinese society.
Network Evolution of a Large Online MSM Dating Community: 2005–2018
Authors: Liu Chuchu , Lu Xin
Published: November 2019

Due to multiple sexual partners and low rates of condom use, the HIV infection rate among MSM (men who have sex with men) is much higher than that of the general population. In order to analyze the characteristics of online activities of MSM, and to understand the evolution of their social networks, in this study we collect a comprehensive dataset, covering the period from January 2005 to June 2018, from the largest Chinese online community, Baidu Tieba. We build an online dating network for MSM-related individuals in the gay-bar community, and analyze the network from static and dynamic aspects. It is found that there is a strong homophily regarding the cities where users reside when developing interactions with others, and that most network measurements tend to be stable at the later stages of evolution, while the size of the largest community fluctuates. This is an indication that the network is formed of rapidly flexible interactions which changes quickly. In comparison with studies on heterosexual networks, we find that the MSM dating network shows differences in many aspects, such as the positive degree-degree correlation and high clustering coefficient, suggesting different thinking and measures should be taken in the policy making of public health management towards the MSM population.
Exploring a Moderate Fallow Scale of Cultivated Land in China from the Perspective of Food Security
Authors: Lu Dan , Wang Yahui , Yang Qingyuan , He Huiyan , Su Kangchuan
Published: November 2019

Food security remains a primary concern because of the large population and scarce land resources in China, and it is a core task to determine the appropriate proportion and scale of fallowing for fallow systems. The aim of this study was to systematically estimate the grain production potential (GPP) of existing and unexcavated cultivated land due to land use change from 1990 to 2017 and calculate the theoretical fallowing scale by using a population carrying capacity model. The reserved GPP from cultivated land to be excavated was 7470 × 104 t in China, and the GPP stored by the change in grain yield per unit, multiple crop index (MCI) decline, and agricultural structure adjustment were 921 × 104 t, 4321 × 104 t, and 7760 × 104 t, respectively, and the lost GPP caused by construction land expansion was 5287 × 104 t. The population carrying capacity of cultivated land in China was estimated to be 1.469 to 1.515 billion in 2017 on the basis of the national average living standard. The proportion of the population that could be fed more was between 6.28% and 9.54% depending on the number of people included, which provided an opportunity to implement the fallowing system in China. Meanwhile the proportions of the theoretical fallow scale were 6.28% and 9.54%, and the fallow scale ranged from 850 × 104 hm2 to 1296 × 104 hm2 under the premise of fully tapping the potential of cultivated land. In addition, taking the decline in MCI as an example, the grain yield reduction was equivalent to the grain yield of 829 × 104 hm2 of newly reclaimed cultivated land over the past 30 years, which saved 621.48 billion yuan. The costs and benefits when formulating relevant policies of land utilization should be considered, and exploiting the productive capacity of cultivated land that exists is better than reclaiming new cultivated land.
Risk Communication and Factors Influencing Private Well Testing Behavior: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Colley Sarah K. , Kane Peter K.M. , MacDonald Gibson Jacqueline
Published: November 2019

Unregulated private wells may be at risk for certain types of contamination associated with adverse health effects. Well water testing is a primary method to identify such risks, although testing rates are generally low. Risk communication is used as an intervention to promote private well testing behavior; however, little is known about whether these efforts are effective as well as the mechanisms that influence effectiveness. A systematic scoping review was conducted to evaluate the current evidence base for risk communication effectiveness and factors that influence well testing behavior. The review was conducted with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) framework. Data were synthesized using a health behavior model (Health Belief Model) to identify areas amenable to intervention and factors to consider when designing risk communication interventions. We identified a significant shortage of studies examining the effectiveness of risk communication interventions targeted to well testing behavior, with only two quasi-experimental studies identified. The review also identified seventeen studies that examined or described factors relating to well testing behavior. The two empirical studies suggest risk communication methods can be successful in motivating private well owners to test their water, while the remaining studies present considerations for developing effective, community-specific content.
Pharmacological Therapy of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: What Drugs Are Available Now and Future Perspectives
Authors: Pennisi Grazia , Celsa Ciro , Spatola Federica , Dallio Marcello , Federico Alessandro , Petta Salvatore
Published: November 2019

The non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is rapidly becoming the most common cause of chronic liver disease as well as the first cause of liver transplantation. NAFLD is commonly associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and this is the most important reason why it is extremely difficult to treat this disease bearing in mind the enormous amount of interrelationships between the liver and other systems in maintaining the metabolic health. The treatment of NAFLD is a key point to prevent NASH progression to advanced fibrosis, to prevent cirrhosis and to prevent the development of its hepatic complications (such as liver decompensation and HCC) and even extrahepatic one. A part of the well-known healthy effect of diet and physical exercise in this setting it is important to design the correct pharmaceutical strategy in order to antagonize the progression of the disease. In this regard, the current review has the scope to give a panoramic view on the possible pharmacological treatment strategy in NAFLD patients.
Forecasting Seasonal Vibrio parahaemolyticus Concentrations in New England Shellfish
Authors: Hartwick Meghan A. , Urquhart Erin A. , Whistler Cheryl A. , Cooper Vaughn S. , Naumova Elena N. , Jones Stephen H.
Published: November 2019

Seafood-borne Vibrio parahaemolyticus illness is a global public health issue facing resource managers and the seafood industry. The recent increase in shellfish-borne illnesses in the Northeast United States has resulted in the application of intensive management practices based on a limited understanding of when and where risks are present. We aim to determine the contribution of factors that affect V. parahaemolyticus concentrations in oysters (Crassostrea virginica) using ten years of surveillance data for environmental and climate conditions in the Great Bay Estuary of New Hampshire from 2007 to 2016. A time series analysis was applied to analyze V. parahaemolyticus concentrations and local environmental predictors and develop predictive models. Whereas many environmental variables correlated with V. parahaemolyticus concentrations, only a few retained significance in capturing trends, seasonality and data variability. The optimal predictive model contained water temperature and pH, photoperiod, and the calendar day of study. The model enabled relatively accurate seasonality-based prediction of V. parahaemolyticus concentrations for 2014–2016 based on the 2007–2013 dataset and captured the increasing trend in extreme values of V. parahaemolyticus concentrations. The developed method enables the informative tracking of V. parahaemolyticus concentrations in coastal ecosystems and presents a useful platform for developing area-specific risk forecasting models.
Risk of Cardiovascular Mortality in Relation to Increased Total Serum IgE Levels in Older Adults: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Min Kyoung-Bok , Min Jin-Young
Published: November 2019

Background: Despite a potential link between immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels and cardiovascular disease, the effect of elevated total IgE levels on long-term mortality risk remains unclear. We prospectively investigated the association between total serum IgE levels and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in US adults. Methods: We analyzed data from the 2005–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the NHANES (2005–2006) Linked Mortality Public File. The 2005–2006 NHANES data of 1496 older adults aged ≥50 years and who underwent a serum total IgE antibody test in the initial survey were included. Results: After a median follow-up of 119 months, a significant association was observed between total serum IgE levels and cardiovascular mortality, with subjects with the highest total IgE exhibiting a 3.19-fold (HR = 3.19; 95% confidence interval: 1.71–5.96) increase in the risk of cardiovascular mortality compared with those with the lowest total IgE (≤16.80 kU/L). Furthermore, the mortality rate increased with an increase in total IgE levels, regardless of baseline history of cardiovascular diseases (e.g., myocardial infarction, stroke, and noninvasively diagnosed large-vessel peripheral arterial disease). Conclusions: This finding suggests that the elevation of IgE levels may be a risk factor for increased cardiovascular mortality.
Eliciting Knowledge on Technical and Legal Aspects of Participatory Toponym Handling
Authors: Perdana Aji Putra , Ostermann Frank O.
Published: November 2019

There has been increased collaboration between citizens and scientists to achieve common goals in scientific or geographic data collection, analysis, and reporting. Geospatial technology is leveraging the power of citizens in such efforts. Governments have been exploring participatory approaches. This situation should be balanced by sharing knowledge and collaborative learning between stakeholders involved in the participatory activity. Training and education are enhanced by providing guidelines, sharing best practices, and developing toolkits. For toponym handling, a generic framework and capacity building are needed to increase public awareness and enable citizen toponymists. This paper addresses issues around citizen involvement in increasing toponymic knowledge through citizen science and geospatial capacity building. First, we examined the current practice of toponym handling and developed a generic framework. We then used stakeholder feedback and other resources to modify the framework for Indonesian use. Second, we conducted collaborative learning to share information and bridge the knowledge gaps among multiple stakeholders. Third, we applied insights and lessons learned from these activities to develop ideas, suggestions, and action plans to implement participatory toponym handling in Indonesia.
Broad-Spectrum Disease Resistance Conferred by the Overexpression of Rice RLCK BSR1 Results from an Enhanced Immune Response to Multiple MAMPs
Authors: Kanda Yasukazu , Nakagawa Hitoshi , Nishizawa Yoko , Kamakura Takashi , Mori Masaki
Published: November 2019

Plants activate their immune system through intracellular signaling pathways after perceiving microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). Receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases mediate the intracellular signaling downstream of pattern-recognition receptors. BROAD-SPECTRUM RESISTANCE 1 (BSR1), a rice (Oryza sativa) receptor-like cytoplasmic kinase subfamily-VII protein, contributes to chitin-triggered immune responses. It is valuable for agriculture because its overexpression confers strong disease resistance to fungal and bacterial pathogens. However, it remains unclear how overexpressed BSR1 reinforces plant immunity. Here we analyzed immune responses using rice suspension-cultured cells and sliced leaf blades overexpressing BSR1. BSR1 overexpression enhances MAMP-triggered production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and transcriptional activation of the defense-related gene in cultured cells and leaf strips. Furthermore, the co-cultivation of leaves with conidia of the blast fungus revealed that BSR1 overexpression allowed host plants to produce detectable oxidative bursts against compatible pathogens. BSR1 was also involved in the immune responses triggered by peptidoglycan and lipopolysaccharide. Thus, we concluded that the hyperactivation of MAMP-triggered immune responses confers BSR1-mediated robust resistance to broad-spectrum pathogens.
The Regulation of Bone Metabolism and Disorders by Wnt Signaling
Authors: Maeda Kazuhiro , Kobayashi Yasuhiro , Koide Masanori , Uehara Shunsuke , Okamoto Masanori , Ishihara Akihiro , Kayama Tomohiro , Saito Mitsuru , Marumo Keishi
Published: November 2019

Wnt, a secreted glycoprotein, has an approximate molecular weight of 40 kDa, and it is a cytokine involved in various biological phenomena including ontogeny, morphogenesis, carcinogenesis, and maintenance of stem cells. The Wnt signaling pathway can be classified into two main pathways: canonical and non-canonical. Of these, the canonical Wnt signaling pathway promotes osteogenesis. Sclerostin produced by osteocytes is an inhibitor of this pathway, thereby inhibiting osteogenesis. Recently, osteoporosis treatment using an anti-sclerostin therapy has been introduced. In this review, the basics of Wnt signaling, its role in bone metabolism and its involvement in skeletal disorders have been covered. Furthermore, the clinical significance and future scopes of Wnt signaling in osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and neoplasia are discussed.
Cationic Surfactants: Self-Assembly, Structure-Activity Correlation and Their Biological Applications
Authors: Zakharova Lucia Ya. , Pashirova Tatiana N. , Doktorovova Slavomira , Fernandes Ana R. , Sanchez-Lopez Elena , Silva Amélia M. , Souto Selma B. , Souto Eliana B.
Published: November 2019

The development of biotechnological protocols based on cationic surfactants is a modern trend focusing on the fabrication of antimicrobial and bioimaging agents, supramolecular catalysts, stabilizers of nanoparticles, and especially drug and gene nanocarriers. The main emphasis given to the design of novel ecologically friendly and biocompatible cationic surfactants makes it possible to avoid the drawbacks of nanoformulations preventing their entry to clinical trials. To solve the problem of toxicity various ways are proposed, including the use of mixed composition with nontoxic nonionic surfactants and/or hydrotropic agents, design of amphiphilic compounds bearing natural or cleavable fragments. Essential advantages of cationic surfactants are the structural diversity of their head groups allowing of chemical modification and introduction of desirable moiety to answer the green chemistry criteria. The latter can be exemplified by the design of novel families of ecological friendly cleavable surfactants, with improved biodegradability, amphiphiles with natural fragments, and geminis with low aggregation threshold. Importantly, the development of amphiphilic nanocarriers for drug delivery allows understanding the correlation between the chemical structure of surfactants, their aggregation behavior, and their functional activity. This review focuses on several aspects related to the synthesis of innovative cationic surfactants and their broad biological applications including antimicrobial activity, solubilization of hydrophobic drugs, complexation with DNA, and catalytic effect toward important biochemical reaction.
When Does Alzheimer′s Disease Really Start? The Role of Biomarkers
Authors: Lloret Ana , Esteve Daniel , Lloret Maria-Angeles , Cervera-Ferri Ana , Lopez Begoña , Nepomuceno Mariana , Monllor Paloma
Published: November 2019

While Alzheimer’s disease (AD) classical diagnostic criteria rely on clinical data from a stablished symptomatic disease, newer criteria aim to identify the disease in its earlier stages. For that, they incorporated the use of AD’s specific biomarkers to reach a diagnosis, including the identification of Aβ and tau depositions, glucose hypometabolism, and cerebral atrophy. These biomarkers created a new concept of the disease, in which AD’s main pathological processes have already taken place decades before we can clinically diagnose the first symptoms. Therefore, AD is now considered a dynamic disease with a gradual progression, and dementia is its final stage. With that in mind, new models were proposed, considering the orderly increment of biomarkers and the disease as a continuum, or the variable time needed for the disease’s progression. In 2011, the National Institute on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association (NIA-AA) created separate diagnostic recommendations for each stage of the disease continuum—preclinical, mild cognitive impairment, and dementia. However, new scientific advances have led them to create a unifying research framework in 2018 that, although not intended for clinical use as of yet, is a step toward shifting the focus from the clinical symptoms to the biological alterations and toward changing the future diagnostic and treatment possibilities. This review aims to discuss the role of biomarkers in the onset of AD.