bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribuição do touro sobre características de desempenho e qualidade de carcaça de tourinhos Nelore criados na região sudeste do Pará
Authors: Fioravante Fernanda Carolina Rotta Cristino , Rodrigues Matheus Henrique Dias , Paeze Vinicius de Sousa , Souza Ana Beatriz Bezerra , Garcia José Américo Soares , Nepomuceno Leandro Lopes , Bussiman Fernando Oliveira , Ferraz José Bento Sterman , Ferreira Jorge Luís
Published: October 2020

Objetivou-se verificar o efeito do touro (pai) sobre o desempenho, rendimento de carcaça, área de olho de lombo e espessura de gordura subcutânea de tourinhos Nelore criados na região sudeste do Pará e terminados em semiconfinamento. Foram avaliadas as características de peso vivo inicial (PVI) e final (PVF), ganho de peso vivo total (GPVT), ganho médio diário (GMD), rendimento de carcaça (RC), peso de carcaça quente (PCQ), área de olho de lombo (AOL) e espessura de gordura (EGS) de 79 tourinhos. Foi utilizado o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, considerando-se dez tratamentos (touros), e as médias comparadas pelo teste de Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. A média de PVI dos animais foi de 472,35 ± 43,27 Kg, e PVF de 606,73 ± 48,63 Kg, GPVT de 134,38 ± 20,24 kg, e GMD de 1,17 ± 0,18 kg/dia. Não foi verificado efeito significativo do touro sobre a maioria das características analisadas (p>0,05). A média de AOL foi de 38,28 cm² (± 7,55), com variação de 34,2 a 43,6 cm², e EGS média de 3,88 mm (± 2,05), com variação de 3,17 a 4,3 mm. Tais resultados, mostram a necessidade de utilização de touros com maior valor genético para estas características (AOL e EGS).
Stochastic simulation of the spatio-temporal field of the average daily heat index in Southern Russia
Authors: Kargapolova N
Published: October 2020

Numerical models of the heat index time series and spatio-temporal fields can be used for a variety of purposes, from the study of the dynamics of heat waves to projections of the influence of future climate on humans. To conduct these studies one must have efficient numerical models that successfully reproduce key features of the real weather processes. In this study, 2 numerical stochastic models of the spatio-temporal non-Gaussian field of the average daily heat index (ADHI) are considered. The field is simulated on an irregular grid determined by the location of weather stations. The first model is based on the method of the inverse distribution function. The second model is constructed using the normalization method. Real data collected at weather stations located in southern Russia are used to both determine the input parameters and to verify the proposed models. It is shown that the first model reproduces the properties of the real field of the ADHI more precisely compared to the second one, but the numerical implementation of the first model is significantly more time consuming. In the future, it is intended to transform the models presented to a numerical model of the conditional spatio-temporal field of the ADHI defined on a dense spatio-temporal grid and to use the model constructed for the stochastic forecasting of the heat index.
Projected changes in extreme precipitation events over Iran in the 21st century based on CMIP5 models
Authors: Darand M
Published: October 2020

Climate extremes have large impacts on human societies and natural ecosystems. Projection of changes in climate extremes is very important for long-term planning. The current study investigated future changes in extreme precipitation events over Iran based on 18 CMIP5 models for the period 2006-2100. National gridded data from the Asfazari database were used to evaluate climate model simulation. Results indicate that models with higher spatial resolution (CCSM4 and MRI-CGCM3) perform better than those with lower resolution in capturing the spatial features of extreme precipitation events. Bias correction was applied to the models and the projected changes were assessed with the nonparametric modified Mann-Kendal trend test and Sen slope estimator at a 95% confidence level. Annual total precipitation (PRPCTOT) and rainy days (RD) were projected to decrease but the intensity and frequency of precipitation extremes were predicted to increase significantly. The projected decreases were larger in northwestern parts than other regions, with PRPCTOT decreasing by 18 to 22 mm decade-1 and RD by 4 to 4.8 d decade-1. Although there were discrepancies in rates between the models, extreme precipitation events over Iran were generally projected to increase. An increase in consecutive dry days (CDD) was predicted for most regions by the end of the 21st century under RCP8.5, with the largest increase of 5 to 6.8 d decade-1 found for northwestern Iran. In eastern areas of Iran, where precipitation occurs extremely rarely, the number of days with daily precipitation exceeding 10 mm (R10) or even 20 mm (R20) were projected to increase significantly. In conclusion, these changes suggest an increased risk of flash floods in Iran from increased extreme precipitation under the RCP8.5 emission scenario.
Larval energetics of the Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata and Pacific oyster Magallana gigas
Authors: Gibbs M , Scanes E , Parker L , Byrne M , O’Connor W , Virtue P , Ross P
Published: October 2020

Larvae are a critical dispersal stage of marine invertebrates, and their survival depends on nutrition and energetics. This study compared the size, survival, metabolic rate and egg and larval lipid class profiles of larvae of the endemic Sydney rock oyster Saccostrea glomerata and the invasive Pacific oyster Magallana gigas through a period of starvation for 5 and 9 d after fertilisation. Starved larvae grew without food until 5 d of age, at which point they stopped developing, but resumed growth when fed. Egg lipids profiles comprised 78.1 and 74.5% triacylglycerol for M. gigas and S. glomerata respectively. When fed, larvae of M. gigas were significantly larger in size and had faster growth and similar survival compared to S. glomerata. When starved, larvae of M. gigas and S. glomerata grew at similar rates, and there was a trend for lower survival of M. gigas. Larval endogenous lipid reserves were deleted in the first 24 h. Larvae of M. gigas had more total lipids and comparatively more diacylglycerols, monoacylglycerols, phospholipids and cholesterol, whereas S. glomerata had more diacylglycerols and produced sterol esters. Starvation altered the patterns of lipid assimilation, and metabolic rates of larvae of M. gigas and S. glomerata differed over time. When starved, S. glomerata larvae had greater capacity to cope with starvation compared to M. gigas, perhaps due to an evolutionary history in oligotrophic estuaries. As the climate rapidly changes in this global climate-change hotspot, S. glomerata is likely to be negatively affected.
Kesaksian Iman dalam Dialog Interreligius dan Teologi Interkultural
Authors: Sihombing Edy Syahputra
Published: October 2020

The witness of faith is an important element in interreligious dialogue to nourish the existence of theology in intercultural contexts. But dialogue tends to be understood as merely sharing truth information and doctrines in various religions. Such model dialogue is actually not relevant in religious plurality. On the other hand, there are challenges to creating dialogue, including: arrogance, closed attitudes, and claims of truth absolutism. Such a situation does not foster theology in an intercultural context. Humility is the key to dialogue, and the witness of faith plays an important role in nourishing theology in intercultural contexts. In interreligious dialogue, the important witness of faith today is living and practicing the authentic teachings of every religion, such as living in peace, harmony of fraternity, building wisdom of love, and creating justice. This paper will explore the significance of faith witness-ing in interreligious dialogue and intercultural theology with literature research methods to offer implementative recommendations.
Keywords: faith witness; dialogue; interreligious; intercultural; theology
Improving Fourth Grade Students’ Critical Thinking Skills with MIKIR Approach
Authors: Alpusari Mahmud , Mulyani Eva Astuti , Hermita Neni , Putra Elpri Darta
Published: October 2020

This study aims to evaluate the implementation of an approach to improve elementary school students’ critical thinking skills. The approach is called MIKIR that stands for mengalami (experiencing), interaksi (interaction), komunikasi (Communication), internalisasi (internalization), and refleksi (reflection). This research was conducted at a public elementary school in Pasir Penyu District, Indragiri Hulu Regency, Indonesia. The subject of this research was 23 fourth grade students. The method used in this research was quasi-experimental method. The experimental design used in this study was pre-test and post-test one group design. The results of the study obtained an average pretest score of 22.13 and an average posttest score of 27.70 from a maximum score of 36. Based on these results, the score increased by 5.57 points or 20.10%. The overall average N-gain value of 0.41 with moderate criteria, so that the MIKIR approach can improve fourth grade students’ critical thinking skills. This result was supported by the results of student learning activities and student responses to learning with the MIKIR approach obtaining an average of 84.6% with a very good category.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE CONTENT OF NATURE PROTECTION MAPS WITH USING WEB-TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: Olesova Kunney A. , Kasyanova Elena L.
Published: October 2020

The article deals with the creation of environmental protection maps based on web technologies. The relevance of the topic is due to the fact that the development of web-cartography is the result of a great interest in spatial data and the results of their visualization, analysis and processing. The article describes the development of the content of environmental protection maps and symbols for each element of the thematic content of the map. Based on Geoserver and Leaflet software, an interactive digital map of the Irkutsk region was created with the presentation of information on nature conservation objects. The created interactive digital map is intended for operation in local and global networks.
INTERACTIVE MAP MULTIMEDIA INFORMATION TO THE GEOPORTAL
Authors: Urkunova Aygerim G. , Komissarova Elena V.
Published: October 2020

The article presents a study of the role of interactive map multimedia information for a geoportal. The urgency of the development of interactive map multimedia is shown. The developed technological scheme to create an interactive map with multimedia information is offered.
STATE OF LAND IN THE ZONE OF INFLUENCE OF THE INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE JSC «PA «NORTH»
Authors: Usacheva Natalia E. , Bochkareva Irina I.
Published: October 2020

The categories of land in the zone of influence of the industrial enterprise JSC "PO "North" were studied and measures to improve the soil condition of the nearby territory were considered.
GNSS-METEOROLOGY: OPPORTUNITIES AND PROSPECTS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN RUSSIA AND ABROAD
Authors: Khunai-ool Chimis V. , Gienko Elena G.
Published: October 2020

The article considers the possibilities and prospects for the development of GNSS meteorology based on domestic and foreign research. It is noted that the tropospheric delay of the GNSS signal is a valuable source of information about the state of the troposphere. The algorithm for estimating tropospheric delay and the services that perform this assessment (international GNSS service IGS and online service GAPS) are described. The content of the IGS output file with tropospheric delays at the IGS point is considered. The necessary conditions for the implementation of GNSS meteorology are listed, as well as structural diagrams of existing GNSS meteorology systems in the United States and Japan. It is shown that research in this area is being carried out in Russia. It is concluded that the network of permanent base stations in the Novosibirsk Region has the potential for the development of GNSS meteorology in the covered area.
ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL LAND USE IN THE REPUBLIC OF TYVA
Authors: Huurakai Aziyana O. , Klyushnichenko Victor N.
Published: October 2020

Agricultural land is the main resource for growing food and is a guarantee of food security. In the harsh climatic conditions of the Republic of Tuva, agriculture requires serious labor and material costs. However, the area of agricultural land is practically not reduced and this is facilitated by attracting young people to work in agricultural organizations. The purpose of this work is to reflect negative trends in the use of agricultural land. Recommendations to reduce the impact of the identified trend are given. The article analyzes the processes of agricultural land use in the Republic of Tuva, starting from 2014 to 2018. It also provides information about economic status of the Republic. It is concluded that it is necessary to develop a program to attract young professionals to rural areas on preferential terms.
STUDY OF ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF IMPLEMENTATION OF STATE LAND MONITORING IN THE REPUBLIC OF TYVA
Authors: Huurakai Aziyana O. , Klyushnichenko Victor N.
Published: October 2020

Rational use of land resources is ensured by regular state land supervision and municipal control. In the process of conducting state land supervision and municipal control, violations of use of land resources are identified and an order is prepared for their elimination. The statistical data provided in this paper allow concludine that it is advisable to increase penalties for the use of land resources not for their intended purpose or with other violations of land use and development rules. The article analyzes the results of state land supervision in the Republic of Tuva from 2017 to 2019. At the same time, the main provisions of the state land supervision are considered, its structure, content, methods of implementation, as well as the bodies that carry out this activity are defined. The role of the state land supervision was shown. The advantages and disadvantages of state land supervision are revealed.
AN EXPERIMENT ON FORMATION OF A SPATIAL BASIS FOR THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELING OF TERRITORY
Authors: Shannaa Aylash A. , Kulik Ekaterina N.
Published: October 2020

The article discusses the technology for creating the spatial basis of a digital terrain model, the data for which was obtained by aerial photography of the territory. Also, as part of the study, the technological scheme of the stereophotogrammetric method was analyzed and its practical testing was carried out.
DETECTION OF INFORMATION LEAKAGE THREATS IN FIBER OPTICAL COMMUNICATION CHANNEL
Authors: Shchelkin Kirill E. , Popkov Gleb V.
Published: October 2020

The paper discusses the possibility of detecting an information leakage channel in standard fiber-optic communications by monitoring optical radiation. Any abnormal light emission can create a potential threat of speech information leakage, as well as regular light streams modulated at acoustic frequencies.
ANALYSIS OF EXISTING BICYCLE INFRASTRUCTURE IN NOVOSIBIRSK
Authors: Lebedeva Kseniya S. , Bugakov Petr Yu.
Published: October 2020

The analysis of the bicycle infrastructure in Novosibirsk is carried out. The principles of functioning and the current state of the bicycle infrastructure are considered. A number of problems in this field were identified, including the lack of a unified bicycle transport network and the insecurity of the movement of cyclists in the traffic stream. The results of the research will be used in the development of an geographic information system designed to analyze the city bicycle infrastructure. This system will visualize the main elements of the bicycle infrastructure on an interactive map, construct bicycle routes, and also collect data on the state of the infrastructure through interaction with users. The geographic information system will be useful in the development of strategy for the designing of the bicycle infrastructure of the city by the relevant departments, and it will also find its application as an information and navigation system for bike owners.
CONCEPT OF ACCELERATION OF THE SYSTEM OF ECONOMIC PRODUCTION AT THE INSTRUMENTAL ENTERPRISE
Authors: Patsan Alexandr V. , Shaburova Aelita V.
Published: October 2020

The article considers the reasons for improving the concept of lean production at an instrument-making enterprise. For a visual representation of the state of the organization, a comparison of methods and tools of lean production with the current situation of lean production at JSC "NIP" is presented. A set of organizational measures is presented, consisting of several stages for sorting equipment, cleaning equipment, standardizing and performing improvements, systematization and continuous offer of improvements and their implementation. On the example of two parts manufactured at an instrument-making plant, the principle of technological measures to improve the implementation of lean production is presented. The result after technological measures is shown in detail per shift. A plan of improvement of all enterprises of the instrument-making industry is considered, according to the developed organizational and technical measures for JSC «NIP»
MULTIMEDIA COMPONENT OF GEOMODELES FOR FORECASTING EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
Authors: Pomytkina Daria K. , Kolesnikov Aleksey A. , Komissarova Elena V.
Published: October 2020

The article considers the role of multimedia tools and technologies as an integral part of the geomodel used in forecasting emergencies. The efficiency and practicality of using a geomodel integrated with multimedia information is substantiated. A general technological scheme for creating a multimedia geomodel for forecasting emergency situations and its logical structure are proposed.
CONTENT OF DESIGN STAGE IN LIFE CYCLE OF THE MACHINE FOR MANUFACTURING OPTICAL DEVICES AND SYSTEMS
Authors: Lepen Alexandr U. , Shaburova Aelita V.
Published: October 2020

"Product lifecycle" is a comprehensive indicator of the entire product lifecycle. Today, there is a need to solve the problem of improving the efficiency of equipment development at the design stage, which determines the main technical characteristics, manufacturability, ease of operation and repair. Also, due to the wide range of used modern and technological computer-aided design systems and other information technologies, the process of developing a new product is significantly simplified. Mathematical modeling followed by digital 3D visualization allows optimizing most of the design solutions, technical and economic indicators, and operating modes based on multivariate calculations and simulations that constitute the essence of a computer experiment, which repeatedly speeds up and reduces the cost of creating new, innovative, competitive equipment. Intense competition in the market forces manufacturers not only to look for new design solutions, but also to optimize the existing life cycle of equipment, thus the relevance of this work is due to the improvement of the design stage in the life cycle of the machine, through the use of a new concept of information support using CAD SolidWorks.
Political Regime and Suspected COVID-19 Death Data Manipulation
Authors: Annaka Susumu
Published: October 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic—the worst one since the Spanish flu—has dramatically changed the world, with a great number of people still suffering and dying from the dis-ease. Some scholars argue that the pandemic has severely damaged democratic coun-tries, mainly because these cannot intervene in their citizens’ lives, as opposed to their authoritarian counterparts. Another study challenges this view and suggests that authori-tarian countries manipulate data on COVID-19-related deaths. This paper aims to deter-mine which view is more persuasive using cross-national data. This article uses statisti-cal evidence to reveal that authoritarian countries are likely to manipulate the data. The result implies that, with this successful manipulation, authoritarian states can strengthen citizens’ support for their governments through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Learning democracy in a new society
Authors: Kloubert Tetyana , Dickerhoff Inga
Published: October 2020

Migrants, coming to Germany, must attend integration courses in order to obtain a residence permit. These courses are comprised of a language section as well as an orientation section. The latter’s purpose is, according to the German Federal Agency for Migration and Refugees (BAMF), the transmission of knowledge of the German legal system, culture, and history and especially of democratic values of the German political system (BAMF, 2017, p. 6). This article examines the challenges that instructors and participants of those courses face when it comes to the teaching and learning of democratic values, based on a qualitative research conducted in 2018. As the theoretical lens, this article incorporates the concept of dialogue by Martin Buber.
Paternalistic benevolence – Enabling violence
Authors: Heinemann Alisha M.B. , Sarabi Saman A.
Published: October 2020

The transnational empirical project zooms in on ‘German language classrooms’ and the teachers’ task of dealing with the double bind between ‘the need to teach the German language for the empowerment of the learners’ on the one hand and the consequent ‘reproduction of the hegemonic norm of a monolingual society’ on the other. The teachers in the focus of the project work for institutes of adult education with learners who are migrants and refugees living in Germany or Austria. The results show how teachers frame their work through two central positions. The first can be framed as ‘paternalistic benevolence’and the second as ‘enabling violence’. The latter corresponds to a critical stance reflecting on the harm done in learning spaces while still being inevitable in nation states that construct themselves as monolingual unities. Pedagogical professionals looking for a responsible path that reduces the violence done to a minimum will discover interesting reflections on the possibilities of how to find an always uncertain and contradictory place in the interstices.
Effect of Processing Conditions on the Properties of Reticulated Porous Diatomite–Kaolin Composites
Authors: Lee Sujin , Lee Chae Young , Ha Jang-Hoon , Lee Jongman , Song In-Hyuck , Kwon Se-Hun
Published: October 2020

Porous ceramics have been extensively investigated because of their high-temperature and chemical stabilities, which are far superior to those of porous polymers and porous metals, despite their mechanical instability. Among various kinds of porous ceramic, reticulated porous ceramics have attracted considerable attention because of their extremely high porosity, which is generally higher than 90% and can maximize the advantages of this class of materials. However, to the best of our knowledge, sufficient data are not available on the preparation of low-cost, abundant, and natural material-based reticulated porous ceramics. Therefore, we obtained and characterized reticulated porous diatomite–kaolin composites prepared under various processing conditions, such as solid loading, average particle size, and pore density. The experimental data were used to investigate whether the densities and compressive strengths of the reticulated porous diatomite–kaolin composite can be tailored, and to assess the potential of these materials in different application fields.
An Approach to Human Walking Analysis Based on Balance, Symmetry and Stability Using COG, ZMP and CP
Authors: Kim Seonghye , Murakami Toshiyuki
Published: October 2020

The parameters of walking have been studied from the viewpoints of joint rotation and translation of body. The balance and symmetry of walking are indispensable features to understand for healthy walking, while also being a personal characteristic. However, quantification has not been easy to carry out in the case of the conventional gait parameters COG (center of gravity) and ZMP (zero moment point). In this approach, the CP (crossing point) is proposed to quantify the concept of symmetry and balance by comparing it to the COG and ZMP. The CP is estimated based on the intersection between the hip line and the ankle line. While the hip line is fixed on the upper body where the COG is, the ankle line is altered depending on the each footfall, where the ZMP is. Therefore, the values of COG, ZMP, and CP have similar or different tendencies in terms of whether balanced walking results in symmetry or not. The validity of this is verified by carrying out a simulation with robot walking, and an experiment using human walking. Through additional experiments, it was noticed that the CP was able to improve the role of COG and ZMP in terms of not only stability, but also its relationship with the movement range of the lower limbs.
Abundance of Regulatory T Cell (Treg) as a Predictive Biomarker for Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Oshi Masanori , Asaoka Mariko , Tokumaru Yoshihisa , Angarita Fernando A. , Yan Li , Matsuyama Ryusei , Zsiros Emese , Ishikawa Takashi , Endo Itaru , Takabe Kazuaki
Published: October 2020

Regulatory CD4+ T cell (Treg), a subset of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), are known to suppress anticancer immunity but its clinical relevance in human breast cancer remains unclear. In this study, we estimated the relative abundance of Tregs in breast cancer of multiple patient cohorts by using the xCell algorithm on bulk tumor gene expression data. In total, 5177 breast cancer patients from five independent cohorts (TCGA-BRCA, GSE96058, GSE25066, GSE20194, and GSE110590) were analyzed. Treg abundance was not associated with cancer aggressiveness, patient survival, or immune activity markers, but it was lower in metastatic tumors when compared to matched primary tumors. Treg was associated with a high mutation rate of TP53 genes and copy number mutations as well as with increased tumor infiltration of M2 macrophages and decreased infiltration of T helper type 1 (Th1) cells. Pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) was significantly associated with low Treg abundance in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) but not in ER-positive/Her2-negative subtype. High Treg abundance was significantly associated with high tumor expression of multiple immune checkpoint inhibitor genes. In conclusion, Treg abundance may have potential as a predictive biomarker of pCR after NAC in TNBC.
Use of Targeted Amplicon Sequencing in Peanut to Generate Allele Information on Allotetraploid Sub-Genomes
Authors: Kulkarni Roshan , Chopra Ratan , Chagoya Jennifer , Simpson Charles E. , Baring Michael R. , Hillhouse Andrew , Puppala Naveen , Chamberlin Kelly , Burow Mark D.
Published: October 2020

The use of molecular markers in plant breeding has become a routine practice, but the cost per accession can be a hindrance to the routine use of Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) identification in breeding programs. In this study, we demonstrate the use of targeted re-sequencing as a proof of concept of a cost-effective approach to retrieve highly informative allele information, as well as develop a bioinformatics strategy to capture the genome-specific information of a polyploid species. SNPs were identified from alignment of raw transcriptome reads (2 × 50 bp) to a synthetic tetraploid genome using BWA followed by a GATK pipeline. Regions containing high polymorphic SNPs in both A genome and B genomes were selected as targets for the resequencing study. Targets were amplified using multiplex PCR followed by sequencing on an Illumina HiSeq. Eighty-one percent of the SNP calls in diploids and 68% of the SNP calls in tetraploids were confirmed. These results were also confirmed by KASP validation. Based on this study, we find that targeted resequencing technologies have potential for obtaining maximum allele information in allopolyploids at reduced cost.
Genetic Architecture Underpinning Yield Components and Seed Mineral–Nutrients in Sesame
Authors: Teboul Naama , Gadri Yaron , Berkovich Zipi , Reifen Ram , Peleg Zvi
Published: October 2020

Genetic dissection of yield components and seed mineral-nutrient is crucial for understanding plant physiological and biochemical processes and alleviate nutrient malnutrition. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an orphan crop that harbors rich allelic repertoire for seed mineral–nutrients. Here, we harness this wide diversity to study the genetic architecture of yield components and seed mineral–nutrients using a core-collection of worldwide genotypes and segregating mapping population. We also tested the association between these traits and the effect of seed nutrients concentration on their bio-accessibility. Wide genetic diversity for yield components and seed mineral–nutrients was found among the core-collection. A high-density linkage map consisting of 19,309 markers was constructed and used for genetic mapping of 84 QTL associated with yield components and 50 QTL for seed minerals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on mineral–nutrients QTL in sesame. Genomic regions with a cluster of overlapping QTL for several morphological and nutritional traits were identified and considered as genomic hotspots. Candidate gene analysis revealed potential functional associations between QTL and corresponding genes, which offers unique opportunities for synchronous improvement of mineral–nutrients. Our findings shed-light on the genetic architecture of yield components, seed mineral–nutrients and their inter- and intra- relationships, which may facilitate future breeding efforts to develop bio-fortified sesame cultivars.
Effect of Radiofrequency Electromagnetic Fields on Thermal Sensitivity in the Rat
Authors: Ouadah Nihal S. , Blazy Kelly , Villégier Anne-Sophie
Published: October 2020

The World Health Organization and the French Health Safety Agency (ANSES) recognize that the expressed pain and suffering of electromagnetic field hypersensitivity syndrome (EHS) people are a lived reality requiring daily life adaptations to cope. Mechanisms involving glutamatergic N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors were not explored yet, despite their possible role in hypersensitivity to chemicals. Here, we hypothesized that radiofrequency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) exposures may affect pain perception under a modulatory role played by the NMDA receptor. The rats were exposed to RF-EMF for four weeks (five times a week, at 0 (sham), 1.5 or 6 W/kg in restraint) or were cage controls (CC). Once a week, they received an NMDA or saline injection before being scored for their preference between two plates in the two-temperatures choice test: 50 °C (thermal nociception) versus 28 °C. Results in the CC and the sham rats indicated that latency to escape from heat was significantly reduced by −45% after NMDA, compared to saline treatment. Heat avoidance was significantly increased by +40% in the 6 W/kg, compared to the sham exposed groups. RF-EMF effect was abolished after NMDA treatment. In conclusion, heat avoidance was higher after high brain-averaged specific absorption rate, affording further support for possible effect of RF-EMF on pain perception. Further studies need to be performed to confirm these data.
Evaluation of the Effects of a Bullying at Work Intervention for Middle Managers
Authors: Baixauli Elena , Beleña Ángela , Díaz Amelia
Published: October 2020

The aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of a workplace bullying intervention based on the training of middle managers regarding bullying awareness, the consequences of bullying, strategies in conflict resolution and mediation/negotiation abilities. Overall, 142 randomly selected middle managers participated in the study. First, participants completed an information record and two scales assessing bullying strategies, role conflict and role ambiguity. The last two scales were completed again in a second phase three months after the intervention had finished. The intervention produced a decrease in the following bullying strategies: effects on self-expression and communication, effects on personal reputation and effects on occupational situation and quality of life, with all of the mentioned bullying strategies being suffered by part of the sample. In addition, the conflict role decreased in the group which received the intervention. Moreover, the decrease in the effects of the bullying strategy effects on occupational situation and quality of life was especially important in managers with higher responsibilities within the workplace. Results are discussed in the framework that (1) leadership practices and, more specifically, conflict resolution skills are strongly responsible for bullying at work; and (2) the importance of intervening in the early stages of the bullying process as a key element in the correction, but also as a potential prevention element, of bullying in the workplace.
Assessment on Distributional Fairness of Physical Rehabilitation Resource Allocation: Geographic Accessibility Analysis Integrating Google Rating Mechanism
Authors: Wu Hui-Ching , Tseng Ming-Hseng , Lin Chuan-Chao
Published: October 2020

Identifying and treating co-existing diseases are essential in healthcare for the elderly, while physical rehabilitation care teams can provide interdisciplinary geriatric care for the elderly. To evaluate the appropriateness of demand and supply between the population at demand and physical rehabilitation resources, a comparative analysis was carried out in this study. Our study applied seven statistical indices to assess five proposed methods those considered different factors for geographic accessibility analysis. Google ratings were included in the study as a crucial factor of choice probability in the equation for calculating the geographic accessibility scores, because people’s behavioral decisions are increasingly dependent on online rating information. The results showed that methods considering distances, the capacity of hospitals, and Google ratings’ integrally generated scores, are in better accordance with people’s decision-making behavior when they determine which resources of physical rehabilitation to use. It implies that concurrent considerations of non-spatial factors (online ratings and sizes of resource) are important. Our study proposed an integrated assessment method of geographical accessibility scores, which includes the spatial distribution, capacity of resources and online ratings in the mechanism. This research caters to countries that provide citizens with a higher degree of freedom in their medical choices and allows these countries to improve the fairness of resource allocation, raise the geographic accessibilities of physical rehabilitation resources, and promote aging in place.
Using Rutilus rutilus (L.) and Perca fluviatilis (L.) as Bioindicators of the Environmental Condition and Human Health: Lake Łańskie, Poland
Authors: Łuczyńska Joanna , Paszczyk Beata , Łuczyński Marek Jan , Kowalska-Góralska Monika , Nowosad Joanna , Kucharczyk Dariusz
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the mercury content and fatty acids profile in roach (Rutilus rutilus L.) and European perch (Perca fluviatilis L.) from Lake Łańskie (Poland). Mercury content was higher in the muscles than other organs in both species (p < 0.05). Mercury accumulates along the food chain of the lake’s ecosystem. The value of the bioconcentration factor (BCF) indicated that Hg had accumulated in the highest amounts in muscles and in the other organs as follows: muscles > liver > gills > gonads. The metal pollution index (MPI) and target hazard quotient (THQ) were below 1, which means that these fish are safe for consumers. The values of HIS, GSI and FCF indicators show that both species of fish can be good indicators of water quality and food contamination. There were few differences between fatty acid content in the muscles of perch and roach. Contents of fatty acids having an undesirable dietary effect in humans (OFA—hypercholesterolemic fatty acids) were lower compared to hypocholesterolemic fatty acids (DFA, i.e., the desirable ones). In addition, the lipid quality indices AI and TI in the muscles of fish were at 0.40 and 0.22 (perch) and at 0.35 and 0.22 (roach), respectively. On this basis, it can be concluded that the flesh of the fish studied is beneficial from the health point of view.
Development and Exploration of Psychometric Properties of the Family Adjustment Questionnaire for Admitting an Older Adult to a Nursing Home (CAFIAR)
Authors: Riquelme-Marín Antonio , Martín-Carbonell Marta , Ortigosa-Quiles Juan M. , Méndez Inmaculada
Published: October 2020

Background: Admitting an older adult to a nursing home involves significant adjustment efforts by the family. Our goal was to prepare an assessment instrument for this, given that there was none to date. Method: Participants—134 relatives from different nursing homes in the region of Murcia. Instruments—structured interview for socio-demographic information, satisfaction with the nursing home, well-being and health self-assessment, Radloff’s Depression Questionnaire (CES-D), and the first version of CAFIAR. Results: A 15-item instrument with three factors was obtained: Factor 1 (Unease due to admitting an older adult to a nursing home), Factor 2 (Relief), and Factor 3 (Nostalgia and concern for the older adult), in addition to a general adjustment index, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.74. The general adjustment index and the subscales that demonstrate poor adjustment were significantly correlated with depression and a worse health self-assessment, while the Relief subscale, which indicates better adjustment, was significantly correlated with well-being and a positive health self-assessment. Conclusions: The family adjustment in admitting an older adult to a nursing home questionnaire (CAFIAR) has adequate psychometric properties to assess family adaptation in admitting an older adult to an institution.
Impact of Sediment Concentration on the Survival of Wastewater-Derived blaCTX-M-15-Producing E. coli, and the Implications for Dispersal into Estuarine Waters
Authors: Bashawri Yasir M. , Robins Peter , Cooper David M. , McDonald James E. , Jones Davey L. , Williams A. Prysor
Published: October 2020

The environmental cycling of antibiotic-resistant blaCTX-M-15-producing E. coli following release from wastewater treatment plants is a major public health concern. This study aimed to (i) assess the impact of sediment concentrations on the rate of their inactivation following release from human wastewater into freshwater, and (ii) simulate their subsequent dispersal to the nearby coastline during a “worst-case” event where heavy rainfall coincided with high spring tide in the Conwy Estuary, North Wales. Freshwater microcosms of low, medium and high turbidity were inoculated with blaCTX-M-15-producing E. coli, then exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Typical regional wintertime exposure to UV was found to be insufficient to eradicate E. coli, and in highly turbid water, many bacteria survived simulated typical regional summertime UV exposure. Modelling results revealed that blaCTX-M-15-producing E. coli concentrations reduced downstream from the discharge source, with ~30% of the source concentration capable of dispersing through the estuary to the coast, taking ~36 h. Offshore, the concentration simulated at key shellfisheries and bathing water sites ranged from 1.4% to 10% of the upstream input, depending on the distance offshore and tidal regime, persisting in the water column for over a week. Our work indicates that the survival of such organisms post-release into freshwater is extended under typical wintertime conditions, which could ultimately have implications for human health.
CO2 Uptake and Physicochemical Properties of Carbonation-Cured Ternary Blend Portland Cement–Metakaolin–Limestone Pastes
Authors: Hameed Rizwan , Seo Joonho , Park Solmoi , Amr Issam T. , Lee H.K.
Published: October 2020

The feasibility of carbonation curing of ternary blend Portland cement–metakaolin–limestone was investigated. Portland cement was substituted by the combination of metakaolin and limestone at levels of 15%, 30%, and 45% by the mass. The ternary blends were cured with four different combinations of ambient and carbonation curing. The mechanical property, CO2 uptake, and mineralogical variations of the ternary blend pastes were investigated by means of compressive strength test, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray diffractometry. In addition, volume of permeable voids and sorptivity of the ternary blends were also presented to provide a fundamental idea of the pore characteristics of the blends. The test results showed that the increasing amount of metakaolin and limestone enhanced the CO2 uptake, reaching 20.7% for the sample with a 45% cement replacement level at 27 d of carbonation. Meanwhile, the compressive strength of the samples was reduced up to 65% upon excessive incorporation of metakaolin and limestone. The samples with a replacement level of 15% exhibited a comparable strength and volume of permeable voids to those of the sample without substitution, proving that the ternary blend Portland cement–metakaolin–limestone can be a viable option toward the development of eco-friendly binders.
Elucidation of the Hydration Reaction of UHPC Using the PONKCS Method
Authors: Kang Hyunuk , Lee Nankyoung , Moon Juhyuk
Published: October 2020

This study explored the hydration reaction of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) as analysis methods. The partial- or no-known crystal structure (PONKCS) method was adopted to quantify the two main amorphous phases of silica fume and C-S-H; such quantification is critical for understanding the hydration reaction of UHPC. The measured compressive strength was explained well by the degree of hydration found by the PONKCS method, particularly the amount of amorphous C-S-H. During heat treatment, the pozzolanic reaction was more intensified by efficiently consuming silica fume. After heat treatment, weak but continuous hydration was observed, in which the cement hydration reaction was dominant. Furthermore, the study discussed some limitations of using the PONKCS method for studying the complicated hydration assemblage of UHPC based on the results of TGA and NMR. Generally, the PONKCS method underestimated the content of silica fume in the early age of heat treatment. Furthermore, the structural evolution of C-S-H, confirmed by NMR, should be considered for more accurate quantification of C-S-H formed in UHPC. Nevertheless, PONKCS-based XRD could be useful for understanding and optimizing the material properties of UHPC undergoing heat treatment.
A Preliminary Study on the Presence of Salmonella in Lymph Nodes of Sows at Processing Plants in the United States
Authors: Harvey Roger B. , Norman Keri N. , Anderson Robin C. , Nisbet David J.
Published: October 2020

Salmonella-contaminated lymph nodes (LN), when included into edible meat products, are a potential source of Salmonella foodborne disease. In this survey, ventral superficial cervical and mandibular LN were tested for the presence of Salmonella from two sow processing plants in the midwestern United States. Results indicate that both LN can be contaminated with Salmonella; mandibular LN have higher prevalence (p < 0.05) of Salmonella than cervical LN (16% vs. 0.91%), and the majority (>90%) of Salmonella isolates are pan-susceptible or resistant to one antimicrobial, while 9.78% of isolates were multi-drug-resistant (MDR-resistant to three or more classes of antimicrobials). Intervention methods to prevent foodborne disease could include elimination of these LN from pork products or inclusion of LN only into products that are destined for cooking. Integrated multi-faceted intervention methods need to be developed to reduce Salmonella in the food chain.
The Cardiotonic Steroid Marinobufagenin Is a Predictor of Increased Left Ventricular Mass in Obesity: The African-PREDICT Study
Authors: Strauss-Kruger Michél , Kruger Ruan , Smith Wayne , Gafane-Matemane Lebo F. , Mokwatsi Gontse , Wei Wen , Fedorova Olga V. , Schutte Aletta E.
Published: October 2020

The endogenous Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitor, marinobufagenin (MBG), strongly associates with salt intake and a greater left ventricular mass index (LVMi) in humans and was shown to promote cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy in animals. The adverse effects of MBG on cardiac remodeling may be exacerbated with obesity, due to an increased sensitivity of Na+/K+-ATPase to MBG. This study determined whether MBG is related to the change in LVMi over time in adults with a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 (obese) and <30 kg/m2 (non-obese). The study followed 275 healthy participants (aged 20–30 years) from the African-Prospective study on the Early Detection and Identification of Cardiovascular disease and Hypertension (African-PREDICT) study over 4.5 years. At baseline, we measured 24 h urine MBG excretion. MBG levels were positively associated with salt intake. LVMi was determined by two-dimensional echocardiography at baseline and after >4.5 years. With multivariate adjusted analyses in obese adults (N = 56), we found a positive association of follow-up LVMi (Adjusted (Adj.) R2 = 0.35; Std. β = 0.311; p = 0.007) and percentage change in LVMi (Adj. R2 = 0.40; Std. β = 0.336; p = 0.003) with baseline MBG excretion. No association of LVMi (Adj. R2 = 0.37; p = 0.85) or percentage change in LVMi (Adj. R2 = 0.19; p = 0.68) with MBG excretion was evident in normal weight adults (N = 123). These findings suggest that obese adults may be more sensitive to the adverse cardiac effects of MBG and provide new insight into the potential role of dietary salt, by way of MBG, in the pathogenesis of cardiac remodeling in obese individuals.
Mapping Young Adults’ Concerns and Attitudes toward Food-Related Sustainability Issues in Israel: Implications for Food Policy
Authors: Tepper Sigal , Kaufman-Shriqui Vered , Shahar Danit Rivka
Published: October 2020

Identifying the concerns about and attitudes toward adopting a healthy, sustainable diet may facilitate the development of effective implementation policies targeted at changing an individual’s dietary choices toward reducing the environmental burden of food systems. This cross-sectional online study was conducted in Israel among 348 adults aged 20–45 who responded to an advertisement posted on several social media platforms. Respondents received a link for the survey after signing informed consent forms. The questionnaire included three sections: concerns regarding food-related sustainability issues, willingness to act (“self”), and expectation that leaders would act upon these issues (“leaders”). Responses were recorded on a 1–4 Likert scale. Health-related issues—healthy food and drink, food prices, food safety, and the quality of health services—were scored the highest, both in the “self” and “leaders” sections. In all items, the expectation that leaders would act was higher than the willingness to act (composite mean ± SD: 3.04 ± 3.11 vs. 2.51 ± 2.47, respectively, p < 0.001). There were significant differences among dietary patterns in all three components. Mapping young adults’ concerns about and attitudes toward food-related sustainability issues allows for the identification of leverages that can be further used as focus issues in messages and interventions such as communication, food labeling, and economic incentives.