bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potensi dan Permasalahan Usaha Perikanan di Kecamatan Cantigi Kabupaten Indramayu
Authors: Risyandi Arrofi Nur , Djunaidah Iin Siti , Supena M Harja
Published: October 2020

Kecamatan Cantigi merupakan salah satu wilayah adminitrasi di Kabupaten Indramayu yang memiliki potensi geografis dan sumberdaya yang baik untuk produksi usaha perikanan. Kecamatan Cantigi memiliki potensi perikanan budidaya air payau yang merata dari masing komoditas dan memiliki potensi terbesar dalam komoditas rumput laut, bandeng dan udang windu (DKP Indramayu, 2015). Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi potensi dan permasalahan perikanan di Kecamatan Cantigi, meliputi penggalian data potensi sumberdaya alam, sumberdaya manusia, sehingga dapat diperoleh data aktual dan potensialnya yang kemudian di analisis untuk mengetahui masalah yang dihadapi dalam suatu wilayah. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada bulan November 2018 dengan menggunakan metode survei. Penentuan responden dilakukan bedasarkan  Purposive Sampling dan penetapan responden menggunakan rumus Slovin dengan galat (e) 20%, Analisa data deskriptif yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini menggunakan Pohon Masalah (Fault Tree Analysis) untuk menentukan sebab – akibat permasalahan yang ada (Anthony, 2015). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan besarnya potensi perikanan yang ada di Kecamatan Cantigi, namun dalam segi pemanfaatan dalam produksi di masing-masing sektor bidang perikanan masih kurang, didasarkan pada permasalahan teknis, sosial dan ekonomi yang ada di Kecamatan Cantigi. Permasalahan yang terdapat di Kecamatan Cantigi yang umum terjadi di masyarakat dalam bidang teknis ; a) nelayan yang masih belum menerapkan rantai dingin, b) pembudidaya belum melaksanakan pengelolaan pakan yang sesuai dan c) pengolah yang belum menerapkan sanitasi higiens pada proses produksi. Analisa GMP pada aspek sosial ; a) Kesadaran anggota kelompok dalam partisipasi kegiatan kelompoknya masih rendah, pada aspek ekonomi; a) harga bahan produksi yang tinggi.
Associaitons between blood pressure and mortality among middle-aged and elderly men and women: a cohort study
Authors: Imaeva A. E. , Balanova Y. A. , Kapustina A. V. , Shalnova S. A. , Shkolnikov V. M.
Published: October 2020

The aim is to study associations between blood pressure/arterial hypertension (AH) and all-cause and cardiovascular (CVD) mortality among middle-aged and elderly Russian men and women. Methods: This study is a part of the cohort study, conducted in Moscow. Altogether, 898 males and 978 females aged 55 years and older comprised the sample. AH was determined with systolic blood pressure level (SBP) > 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) > 90 mmHg, or on condition of antihypertensive treatment (AHT). Obesity, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia and a prior stroke were assessed as risk-factors. During the follow-up period (8,05 years) 547 deaths were identified, including 330 CVD. Results: No significant gender differences in the prevalence of arterial hypertension were detected. About 80 % of females and 65 % of males took AHT. Among them, effective treatment was registered in 42 % of females and 32 % of males. Elevated blood pressure was associated with increased all-cause and CVD mortality risk only among women (HR = 1.63; 95 % CI: 1.21-2.19, HR = 1.81; 95 % CI: 1.23-2.67, respectively). No associations were found between mortality and AH and AHT. The ineffective treatment of arterial hypertension increased all-cause and CVD mortality by 1.9 and 2.5 times, respectively, but only among females. SBP > 160 mmHg and/or DBP > 100 mmHg was associated with 2.6 times (p = 0.020) greater risk of all-cause mortality. No associations were observed among the males. Conclusions: Elevated blood pressure, especially among those taking AHT, significantly increased the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality, but only among women. The results of the study warrant better blood pressure control in females aged 55 years and older with mandatory prescription of AHT.
An Evaluation of the Levels of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 and Bone Turnover Markers in Professional Football Players and in Physically Inactive Men
Authors: SOLARZ K. , KOPEĆ A. , PIETRASZEWSKA J. , MAJDA F. , SŁOWIŃSKA-LISOWSKA M. , MĘDRAŚ M.
Published: October 2020

Vitamin D is synthesised in the skin during exposure to sunlight and its fundamental roles are the regulation of calcium and phosphate metabolism and bone mineralisation. The aim of our study was to evaluate serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3, PTH and bone turnover markers (P1NP, OC, β-CTx, OC/β-CTx) and the intake of calcium and vitamin D in Polish Professional Football League (Ekstraklasa) players and in young men with a low level of physical activity. Fifty healthy men aged 19 to 34 years were included in the study. We showed that 25(OH)D3 and P1NP levels and OC/β-CTx were higher in the group of professional football players than in the group of physically inactive men. The daily vitamin D and calcium intake in the group of professional football players was also higher. We showed a significant relationship between 25(OH)D3 levels and body mass, body cell mass, total body water, fat-free mass, muscle mass, vitamin D and calcium intake. Optimum 25(OH)D3 levels were observed in a mere 16.7 % of the football players and vitamin D deficiency was observed in the physically inactive men. The level of physical activity, body composition, calcium and vitamin D intake and the duration of exposure to sunlight may significantly affect serum levels of 25(OH)D3.
Distinct Effect of Stress on 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 and Corticosteroid Receptors in Dorsal and Ventral Hippocampus
Authors: ERGANG P. , KUŽELOVÁ A. , SOTÁK M. , KLUSOŇOVÁ P. , MAKAL J. , PÁCHA J.
Published: October 2020

Multiple lines of evidence suggest the participation of the hippocampus in the feedback inhibition of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis during stress response. This inhibition is mediated by glucocorticoid feedback due to the sensitivity of the hippocampus to these hormones. The sensitivity is determined by the expression of glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid (MR) receptors and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11HSD1), an enzyme that regulates the conversion of glucocorticoids from inactive to active form. The goal of our study was to assess the effect of stress on the expression of 11HSD1, GR and MR in the ventral and dorsal region of the CA1 hippocampus in three different rat strains with diverse responses to stress: Fisher 344, Lewis and Wistar. Stress stimulated 11HSD1 in the ventral but not dorsal CA1 hippocampus of Fisher 344 but not Lewis or Wistar rats. In contrast, GR expression following stress was decreased in the dorsal but not ventral CA1 hippocampus of all three strains. MR expression was not changed in either the dorsal or ventral CA1 region. These results indicate that (1) depending on the strain, stress stimulates 11HSD1 in the ventral hippocampus, which is known to be involved in stress and emotion reactions whereas (2) independent of strain, stress inhibits GR in the dorsal hippocampus, which is predominantly involved in cognitive functions.
Ventricular Assist Devices in Heart Failure: How to Support the Heart but Prevent Atrophy?
Authors: POKORNÝ M. , ČERVENKA L. , NETUKA I. , PIRK J. , KOŇAŘÍK M. , MALÝ J.
Published: October 2020

Ventricular assist devices (VAD) have recently established themselves as an irreplaceable therapeutic modality of terminal heart failure. Because of the worldwide shortage of donors, ventricular assist devices play a key role in modern heart failure therapy. Some clinical data have revealed the possibility of cardiac recovery during VAD application. On the other hand, both clinical and experimental studies indicate the risk of the cardiac atrophy development, especially after prolonged mechanical unloading. Little is known about the specific mechanisms governing the unloading-induced cardiac atrophy and about the exact ultrastructural changes in cardiomyocytes, and even less is known about the ways in which possible therapeutical interventions may affect heart atrophy. One aim of this review was to present important aspects of the development of VAD-related cardiac atrophy in humans and we also review the most significant observations linking clinical data and those derived from studies using experimental models. The focus of this article was to review current methods applied to alleviate cardiac atrophy which follows mechanical unloading of the heart. Out of many pharmacological agents studied, only the selective beta2 agonist clenbuterol has been proved to have a significantly beneficial effect on unloading-induced atrophy. Mechanical means of atrophy alleviation also seem to be effective and promising.
An Unlikely Symbiosis: Science and Law
Authors: Miller Evan
Published: October 2020

Science has historically held a position of high regard in society. Science is intimately connected to law. These disciplines meet in the courtroom. Due to the nature of civil and criminal disputes in the United States, litigators retain expert witnesses to explicate nuanced subjects, including science. Unfortunately, the common law system has not always favored sound science. This paper examines how science and law can work in concert to benefit all people. Some feel that scientists should simply educate courtrooms, but further scrutiny questions the feasibility of this approach. Understanding the sociology of scientific knowledge elucidates this debate and is applied to the forensic sciences. Science and law have the capacity to improve the human condition and increase equity among all people.
KEYWORDS: Science Communication; Expert Witnesses; Science; Public Perception; Law; Misinformation
MODIFIKASI ASESMEN EARLY WARNING SYSTEM UPAYA PENINGKATAN PENERAPAN KESELAMATAN PASIEN
Authors: Hutabarat Veronika , Novieastari Enie , Satinah Satinah
Published: October 2020

Salah satu faktor dalam meningkatkan penerapan keselamatan pasien adalah ketersediaan dan efektifitas prasarana dalam rumah sakit. Early warning system (EWS) merupakan prasarana dalam mendeteksi perubahan diniÂ  kondisi pasien. Penatalaksanaan EWS masih kurang efektif karena parameter dan nilai rentang scorenya belum sesuai dengan kondisi pasien. Tujuan penulisan untuk mengidentifikasi efektifitas EWS dalam penerapan keselamatan pasien. Metode penulisan action research melalui proses diagnosa, planning action, intervensi, evaluasi danÂ  refleksi. Responden dalam penelitian ini adalahÂ  perawat yang bertugas di area respirasi dan pasien dengan kasus kompleks respirasi di Rumah Sakit Pusat Rujukan Pernapasan Persahabatan Jakarta. Analisis masalah dilakukan dengan menggunakan diagram fishbone. Masalah yang muncul belum optimalnya implementasi early warning system dalam penerapan keselamatan pasien. Hasilnya 100% perawat mengatakan REWS membantu mendeteksi kondisi pasien, 97,4 % perawat mengatakan lebih efektif dan 92,3 % perawat mengatakan lebih efesien mendeteksi perubahan kondisi pasien. Modifikasi EWS menjadi REWS lebih efektif dan efesien dilakukan karena disesuaikan dengan jenis dan kekhususan Rumah Sakit dan berdampak terhadap kualitas asuhan keperawatan dalam menerapkan keselamatan pasien. Rekomendasi perlu dilakukan monitoring evaluasi terhadap implementasi t.erhadap implementasi REWS dan pengembangan aplikasi berbasis tehnologi
GAMBARAN STATUS GIZI IBU HAMIL PRIMIGRAVIDA DAN MULTIGRAVIDA DI WILAYAH KERJA PUSKESMAS KARANG MULYA KABUPATEN GARUT
Authors: Sari Lupita , Widiasih Restuning , Hendrawati Hendrawati
Published: October 2020

Masalah gizi di Indonesia masih tinggi termasuk masalah gizi pada ibu hamil. Status gizi ibu hamil tergambar dari angka kejadian anemia dan Kekurangan Energi Kronis (KEK). Ibu hamil yang mengalami resiko KEK di Jawa Barat cukup tinggi, termasuk di Kabupaten Garut.Â  Status gizi pada ibu hamil berperan penting dan merupakan faktor prenatal yang akan menyebabkan komplikasi pada ibu serta bayi yang dilahirkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui status gizi ibu hamil. Jenis penelitian ini adalah deskriptif kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah seluruh ibu hamil yang berada di wilayah kerja Puskesmas Karang Mulya Kabupaten Garut. Sampel dalam penelitian ini menggunakan purposive sampling didapatkan sebanyak 74 ibu hamil. Analisis data menggunakan analisis deskriptif. dan disajikan dalam bentuk presentase. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa status gizi berdasarkan ukuran LILA kurang sebesar Â (<23,5 cm) pada ibu primigravidaÂ  sebesar 6,7% dan 2,7% ibu multigravida, kenaikan berat badan kategori baik selama hamil 54,1% primigravida dan 48,7% multigravida, danÂ  kadar hemoglobin (<11 gr/dl) ibu primigravida 40,5% dan ibu multigravida 54,1%. Simpulan penelitian ini dapat menjadi data awal bagi institusi kesehatan dalam mengembangkan intervensi atau program sesuai dengan kondisi ibu hamil diwilayah kecamatan Karang Mulya.
Capacitive Accelerometers with Beams Based on Alternated Segments of Different Widths
Authors: Tecpoyotl-Torres Margarita , Vargas-Chable Pedro , Sandoval-Reyes Josue Osvaldo , Rodriguez-Fuentes Sahiril Fernanda , Cabello-Ruiz Ramon
Published: October 2020

Microelectromechanical (MEM) Accelerometers measure the accelerations or vibrations experienced by objects due to inertial forces or mechanical excitations. To improve their proof mass displacement, several alternatives have been used, such as the design of different shapes of suspension beams. In this work, a new shape of beam is proposed based on alternated segments of different widths. To analyze its performance, one-quarter, middle and complete accelerometers were calculated and simulated; the results were compared with similar cases using conventional uniform-shaped beams. A notable improvement in the proof mass displacement was obtained in all cases, especially with the proposed symmetrical-shaped beam. Harmonic response and explicit dynamic analysis were also considered to discover performance when they are subjected to structural load. An improvement in amplitude displacement was also observed, as well as operation frequency reduction. From the explicit dynamic analysis, a faster performance of the accelerometer with uniform arms can be observed; however, it responds at a lower range of input velocities. A performance comparison of the proposed beam is presented considering the two reported accelerometers. Finally, from the variation in the width of the thinner segment of the symmetrical arms, it can be observed that it is possible to obtain an increment in the displacement of the proof mass of 39.57% and a decrement in natural frequency of 15.30%, with respect to the case of the uniform arm. Other advantages of the symmetric beam are the stress distribution, reducing its effect on the proof mass, as well as their low cross-axis sensitivity. Simulations were performed with ANSYS.
Quality Management Systems and Working Capital SMEs in GPO—A Case of Poland
Authors: Zimon Grzegorz , Zimon Dominik
Published: October 2020

Working capital is designed to provide enterprises with financial security. Its level depends on the strategy of managing individual elements of working capital. An appropriate management strategy allows companies to obtain added working capital. Working capital management is a difficult process as it concerns both current assets and current liabilities. Therefore, company managers are constantly looking for solutions, methods and tools that will help them to manage their working capital. A quality management system is the one that facilitates control over the management of individual elements that create net working capital. The introduction of appropriate procedures derived from quality management systems in specific areas is a great support for creating a positive net working capital. The aim of this paper is to show how the introduction of quality management systems can positively affect the level of working capital. The article presents how quality management systems allow for optimizing the level of individual components, creating a positive net working capital. The research was carried out on a group of 102 Polish small trading companies operating in the same industry. The enterprises were divided into two groups of companies applying the quality management system and of those that did not use such systems. Based on the financial statements for the years 2017–2019 and by means of appropriately selected financial ratios, an analysis of the impact of quality management systems on net working capital was carried out. The results in some areas of management of individual components of net working capital in different groups of enterprises were compared. The research was carried out with the application of appropriate statistical methods. The analysis showed that enterprises using quality management systems managed working capital more efficiently. In the literature, the subject of the impact of quality management systems on working capital is not popular. This paper may be a source for further, extended research and considerations regarding the impact of quality management on the level of working capital in enterprises.
The Potential Use of Probiotics to Improve Animal Health, Efficiency, and Meat Quality: A Review
Authors: Al-Shawi Sarmad G. , Dang David S. , Yousif Asraa Y. , Al-Younis Zena K. , Najm Teif A. , Matarneh Sulaiman K.
Published: October 2020

To address the rapidly growing use of probiotics in animal agriculture, this review discusses the effect of probiotics on animal growth and development, immune response, and productivity. Several benefits have been associated with the use of probiotics in farm animals, such as improved growth and feed efficiency, reduced mortality, and enhanced product quality. While the mechanisms through which probiotics induce their beneficial effects are not well understood, their role in modifying the gastrointestinal microbiota is believed to be the main mechanism. The use of probiotics in fresh and fermented meat products has been also shown to reduce pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms and improve sensory characteristics. Although many benefits have been associated with the use of probiotics, their effectiveness in improving animal performance and product quality is highly variable. Factors that dictate such variability are dependent on the probiotic strain being utilized and its stability during storage and administration/inoculation, frequency and dosage, nutritional and health status as well as age of the host animal. Therefore, future research should focus on finding more effective probiotic strains for the desired use and identifying the optimum dose, administration time, delivery method, and mechanism of action for each strain/host.
Early Vigor of a Pyramiding Line Containing Two Quantitative Trait Loci, Phosphorus Uptake 1 (Pup1) and Anaerobic Germination 1 (AG1) in Rice (O. Sativa L.)
Authors: Shin Na-Hyun , Han Jae-Hyuk , Jang Su , Song Kihwan , Koh Hee-Jong , Lee Jong-Hee , Yoo Soocheul , Chin Joong Hyoun
Published: October 2020

Direct-seeded rice is one of the solutions against the issues of limited labor and time in the rice cropping system. Improved useful traits, such as fertilizer uptake and anaerobic germination, are needed to increase yield and efficiency in the direct seeding system in rice. Pup1 (Phosphorous uptake1) containing PSTOL1 is useful in improving the phosphate uptake under rainfed/upland conditions. OsTPP7 is the major gene of AG1 (Anaerobic Germination), which shows anaerobic germination. IR64-Pup1-AG1 (I-PA) was developed by pyramiding Pup1 and AG1. Around 20% of the chromosomal segments from the donor remained in I-PA. Phenotypic analysis revealed that I-PA showed better phenotypic performance under low and normal P conditions by enhancing the root system and tiller numbers during the early stage. Significantly better P uptake capacity of I-PA was observed upon a P-supplied soil condition. The coleoptile length and germination rate of I-PA showed tolerance under anaerobic-germinated conditions. PSTOL1 and OsTPP7 were independently expressed under different P conditions of soils, as well as anaerobic conditions. The newly developed breeding lines, I-PA, showed early vigor capacity through a high number of tillers, better P uptake, and germination in low-oxygen conditions. It will be a useful and improved breeding line for direct seeding rice breeding programs.
Seed Oil Biochemical Composition of Cultivated Cucurbita L. Species from the VIR Collections Grown in the Astrakhan Province of the Russian Federation
Authors: Shelenga Tatyana V. , Piskunova Tatyana M. , Malyshev Leonid L. , Taipakova Aimat A. , Solovyeva Alla E.
Published: October 2020

Cucurbita crops are among the most valuable and widely cultivated vegetable crops in global agriculture. Cucurbit seed oil meets the requirements of functional nutrition; it is material for the food industry and medicines based on natural ingredients. The present research was aimed at studying features of the biochemical composition of oil in seeds of the main cultivated Cucurbita L. species from the collection of the N.I. Vavilov Institute (VIR) grown in the conditions of the Astrakhan Experiment Station (AES) of VIR. The oil content in seeds of Cucurbita L. species varied from 40 to 49.7%. Over 80% of the fatty acids (FA) composition (FAC) was represented by oleic (13.6–49.6) and linoleic (33.5–69.3%) acids. The accessions of Cucurbita mixta Pang. were noted for high values of saturated FAs (palmitic and stearic), those of Cucurbita pepo var. melopepo (L.) Harz. of linoleic and linolenic, and those of Cucurbita pepo L. of oleic acid. The multiple factor analysis showed significant differences in FAC in accessions of C. pepo var. melopepo, Cucurbita maxima Duch. and C. pepo. The performed study allowed us to reveal FAC features in seeds of each Cucurbita species from the VIR collection and to identify the accessions with the best economically important indicators.
How Consumers Perceive Water Sustainability (HydroSOStainable) in Food Products and How to Identify It by a Logo
Authors: Sánchez-Bravo Paola , Chambers Edgar , Noguera-Artiaga Luis , Sendra Esther , Chambers Edgar , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: October 2020

Water is the most essential resource for food production and socioeconomic development worldwide. Currently, industry and agriculture are the most water consuming activities, creating high levels of pollution, and intensifying the scarcity of water especially in arid regions. The term “hydroSOStainable products” has been used to define those foodstuffs grown under irrigation strategies that involve optimized water management. A study to understand how consumers perceive options to save water in the food chain and how to identify the water sustainable products by a logo, was conducted in Brazil, China, India, Mexico, Spain and USA, with 600 consumers per country. In all countries, consumers think that the food categories in which it is possible to save the most water are those linked directly to agricultural products: (i) “grains and grain products” and (ii) “vegetables, nuts and beans”. Also, consumers do not associate processed products, such as snacks, with high water consumption, even though they come from agricultural products such as grains and require more processing. The logo was positively rated by consumers, especially by young generations. There is a need to properly inform consumers about water sustainability to gain their confidence in the hydroSOS logo.
Antimicrobial Activity of Some Essential Oils against Methicillin-Susceptible and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius-Associated Pyoderma in Dogs
Authors: Nocera Francesca Paola , Mancini Simone , Najar Basma , Bertelloni Fabrizio , Pistelli Luisa , De Filippis Anna , Fiorito Filomena , De Martino Luisa , Fratini Filippo
Published: October 2020

This study aimed to test in vitro the antimicrobial activity of 11 essential oils (EOs) against four methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) and four methicillin-susceptible S. pseudintermedius (MSSP) clinical isolates. The obtained findings demonstrated a clear in vitro efficacy of some tested EOs against both MRSP and MSSP strains. Particularly, modal minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 1:2048 v/v for Melissa officinalis against an MSSP strain to 1:256 v/v for Cymbopogoncitratus against all MRSP strains were observed. The best results, highlighting a modal MIC value of 1:1024 v/v for all tested isolates, was provided by Cinnamomum zeylanicum. Intriguingly, Cinnamomum zeylanicum showed, in many cases, a correspondence between minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and MIC values, indicating that the inhibiting dose is also often bactericidal. Moreover, a mild antibacterial and bactericidal activity against both MRSP and MSSP isolates was detected for the other tested EOs. Considering the zoonotic potential of S. pseudintermedius and the increased dissemination of multidrug-resistant strains, the employment of EOs could be useful for the treatment of canine pyoderma. Since antibiotic resistance has become the most urgent issue, from the perspective of the One Health initiative, alternative therapeutic approaches are desirable to limit the use of antibiotics or to improve the efficacy of conventional therapies.
Organic Dairy Cattle: Do European Union Regulations Promote Animal Welfare?
Authors: Duval Eugénie , von Keyserlingk Marina A.G. , Lecorps Benjamin
Published: October 2020

Animal welfare is an emerging concept in EU law; with the advent of specific regulations intending to protect animals. The approach taken by European lawmakers is to provide “minimum standards” for conventional farming; argued by some as failing to adequately protect animals. In contrast, the EU organic farming regulations aim to “establish a sustainable management system for agriculture” and promote “high animal welfare standards”. The first aim of this review was to identify key areas where there are clear improvements in quality of life for dairy cattle housed under the EU organic regulations when compared to the conventional EU regulations. Using the available scientific evidence, our second aim was to identify areas where the organic regulations fail to provide clear guidance in their pursuit to promote high standards of dairy cattle welfare. The greater emphasis placed on natural living conditions, the ban of some (but unfortunately not all) physical mutilations combined with clearer recommendations regarding housing conditions potentially position the organic dairy industry to achieve high standards of welfare. However, improvements in some sections are needed given that the regulations are often conveyed using vague language, provide exceptions or remain silent on some aspects. This review provides a critical reflection of some of these key areas related to on-farm aspects. To a lesser extent, post farm gate aspects are also discussed
Survey of Risk Factors and Genetic Characterization of Ewe Neck in a World Population of Pura Raza Español Horses
Authors: Ripolles María , Sánchez-Guerrero María J. , Perdomo-González Davinia I. , Azor Pedro , Valera Mercedes
Published: October 2020

Ewe Neck is a relatively common morphological defect in Pura Raza Español (PRE) horses and other Baroque type horse breeds, which adversely affects the breeding industry; (1) objectives: to establish the within-breed prevalence, possible associated factors, and heritability of Ewe Neck in PRE horses; (2) methods: the database included evaluations of 35,267 PRE horses. The Ewe Neck defect, 16 morphological traits, and 4 body indices were recorded. A Bayesian genetic animal model included the following systematic effects: sex, age, coat color, geographical area of the stud, and birth stud size were used; (3) results: in this PRE population, a total of 27.12% was affected. All the risk factors studied were significantly associated with the Ewe Neck score. The heritability coefficient for Ewe Neck score ranged from 0.23 to 0.34. Morphological traits (height at chest, length of back, head-neck junction, and bottom neck-body junction) and the indices (head and thoracic index) were those most closely related with the appearance of Ewe Neck; (4) conclusions: Ewe Neck is a relatively frequent defect in PRE horses, associated with risk factors and other morphological traits, with a moderate level of heritability. Breeding to select against this condition may therefore be beneficial in this breed.
The Rumen Specific Bacteriome in Dry Dairy Cows and Its Possible Relationship with Phenotypes
Authors: Chuang Shih-Te , Ho Shang-Tse , Tu Po-Wen , Li Kuan-Yi , Kuo Yu-Lun , Shiu Jia-Shian , Wang Sheng-Yao , Chen Ming-Ju
Published: October 2020

Most microbiome studies of dairy cows have investigated the compositions and functions of rumen microbial communities in lactating dairy cows. The importance of the relationships among hosts, microbiota, diet composition, and milk production remains unknown in dry dairy cows. Thus, in the present study, the composition of the rumen microbiome in cows from three dairy farms was investigated to identify core bacteria contributing to various physiological roles during rumen fermentation in dry dairy cows. The results indicated that ruminal fluid in dry dairy cows from different regional farms had core rumen microbiota that could be clearly distinguished from that of cows of the other farms. Further identification of key microorganisms associated with each farm revealed that Prevotella, Methanobrevibacter, Pseudobutyrivibrio, Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, and Streptococcus were major contributors. Spearman’s correlation indicated that the abundance of genera such as Prevotella and Ruminococcus in dry dairy cows could indicate milk yield in the previous lactating period. Functional pathway analysis of the rumen bacterial communities demonstrated that amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were the major pathways. Our findings provide knowledge of the composition and predicted functions of rumen microbiota in dry dairy cows from regional farms, which underscore the importance of the relationships among hosts, microbiota, diet composition, and milk production.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Fecal Escherichia coli from Humans and Pigs at Farms at Different Levels of Intensification
Authors: Lunha Kamonwan , Leangapichart Thongpan , Jiwakanon Jatesada , Angkititrakul Sunpetch , Sunde Marianne , Järhult Josef D. , Ström Hallenberg Gunilla , Hickman Rachel A. , Van Boeckel Thomas , Magnusson Ulf
Published: October 2020

The overall aim of the current study was to test the hypotheses that (i) antibiotic resistance in bacteria were more frequent in clinically health pigs in intensified company owned, medium-scale farms (MSFs) (100–500 sows) than in pigs in family-owned, small-scale farms (SSFs) (1–50 sows) and (ii) that farmers working at the MSFs were more prone to attain antibiotic resistant bacteria than farmers working at SSFs. The study was conducted in North-Eastern Thailand, comprising fecal Escherichia coli isolates from pigs, farmers working with the pigs (contact humans) and persons living in the same household as the farmer (non-contact humans) at 51 MSFs and 113 SSFs. Samples from all farms were also screened for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which was not detected in pig samples, but was found in one human sample. Susceptibility was tested by disc-diffusion for seven antibiotics commonly used in the study area. Resistance in pig isolates from MSFs were more frequent for chloramphenicol which (P < 0.001), trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (P < 0.001) and gentamicin (P < 0.05) compared with isolates from SSFs, whereas the opposite was true for tetracycline (P < 0.01). Resistance in the human isolates was lower than those in the isolates from pigs for tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and chloramphenicol (P < 0.001). The frequency of resistance in the contact human samples from SSFs and MSFs did not differ. There was no difference between isolates from contact and non-contact humans for any of the tested antibiotics. Multidrug resistance in isolates from pigs was 26%, significantly higher (P < 0.01) than the 13% from humans. The data indicate that (i) resistance to antibiotics, including those critical and highly important for human medicine, were more common in fecal E. coli from pigs at the MSFs than at the SSFs, whereas (ii) the resistance in fecal E. coli from pig farmers seemed not to be influenced by the level of intensification of the farm they were working at.
Anthelminthic Activity of Assassin Bug Venom against the Blood Fluke Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Tonk Miray , Vilcinskas Andreas , Grevelding Christoph G. , Haeberlein Simone
Published: October 2020

Helminths such as the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni represent a major global health challenge due to limited availability of drugs. Most anthelminthic drug candidates are derived from plants, whereas insect-derived compounds have received little attention. This includes venom from assassin bugs, which contains numerous bioactive compounds. Here, we investigated whether venom from the European predatory assassin bug Rhynocoris iracundus has antischistosomal activity. Venom concentrations of 10–50 µg/mL inhibited the motility and pairing of S. mansoni adult worms in vitro and their capacity to produce eggs. We used EdU-proliferation assays to measure the effect of venom against parasite stem cells, which are essential for survival and reproduction. We found that venom depleted proliferating stem cells in different tissues of the male parasite, including neoblasts in the parenchyma and gonadal stem cells. Certain insect venoms are known to lyse eukaryotic cells, thus limiting their therapeutic potential. We therefore carried out hemolytic activity assays using porcine red blood cells, revealing that the venom had no significant effect at a concentration of 43 µg/mL. The observed anthelminthic activity and absence of hemolytic side effects suggest that the components of R. iracundus venom should be investigated in more detail as potential antischistosomal leads.
New Antimicrobial Bioactivity against Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Positive Bacteria of Kinase Inhibitor IMD0354
Authors: Escobar Iliana E , White Alexis , Kim Wooseong , Mylonakis Eleftherios
Published: October 2020

Multidrug-resistant pathogens pose a serious threat to human health. For decades, the antibiotic vancomycin has been a potent option when treating Gram-positive multidrug-resistant infections. Nonetheless, in recent decades, we have begun to see an increase in vancomycin-resistant bacteria. Here, we show that the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) inhibitor N-[3,5-Bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-5-chloro-2-hydroxybenzamide (IMD0354) was identified as a positive hit through a Caenorhabditis elegans–methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection screen. IMD0354 was a potent bacteriostatic drug capable of working at a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) as low as 0.06 µg/mL against various vancomycin-resistant strains. Interestingly, IMD0354 showed no hemolytic activity at concentrations as high as 16 µg/mL and is minimally toxic to C. elegans in vivo with 90% survival up to 64 µg/mL. In addition, we demonstrated that IMD0354′s mechanism of action at high concentrations is membrane permeabilization. Lastly, we found that IMD0354 is able to inhibit vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA) initial cell attachment and biofilm formation at sub-MIC levels and above. Our work highlights that the NF-κB inhibitor IMD0354 has promising potential as a lead compound and an antimicrobial therapeutic candidate capable of combating multidrug-resistant bacteria.
The Combined Effect of Mediterranean Shrubland Pasture and the Dietary Administration of Sage By-Products on the Antioxidant Status of Segureña Ewes and Lambs
Authors: Jordán María J. , Martínez-Conesa Cristina , Bañón Sancho , Otal Julio , Quílez María , García-Aledo Inmaculada , Romero-Espinar Pascual , Sánchez-Gómez Pedro
Published: October 2020

The objective of this study was to determine if the combined effect of ewe grazing and the incorporation of sage by-products in the lamb feed enhances the Segureña ewe and lamb antioxidant status. For that, the endogenous (related to blood antioxidant enzymes) and exogenous (plasma antioxidant activity) antioxidant systems of ewes and lambs were studied at the physiological stages of lactation, after weaning and at the end of the fattening period. Major results indicated that grazing improved the enzymatic antioxidant defense of ewes during the stressful period of lamb weaning, and also, the antioxidant status of the ewe plasma at both physiological stages: lactation and after lamb weaning. With regards to the lambs, ewe grazing stimulated the antioxidant enzymatic defense during lactation, but not the antioxidant capacity of the plasma. At the end of the fattening period, the inclusion of sage by-products in the lamb diet (10% w/w) enhanced both the enzymatic cascade and antioxidant capacity of the lamb plasma. The antioxidant capacity of the lamb meat was also studied and the benefits of sage were detected in samples from the deltoideus muscle. Thus, Mediterranean grazing stimulated the antioxidant defense in ewes, while the inclusion of sage by-products in the lamb diets enhanced the antioxidant status of both blood and meat.
Synergistic Effects of Regular Walking and Alkaline Electrolyzed Water on Decreasing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress, and Increasing Quality of Life in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Community Based Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rias Yohanes Andy , Kurniawan Adi Lukas , Chang Ching Wen , Gordon Christopher James , Tsai Hsiu Ting
Published: October 2020

Alkaline electrolyzed water (AEW) and walking are strongly recommended for ameliorating oxidative stress and inflammation. Nevertheless, there is a lack of information on the combination of both on alleviating inflammation, oxidative stress, and improving the quality of life (QoL). We investigated the synergistic effects of drinking AEW and walking on advanced glycation end products (AGEs), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs), malondialdehyde (MDA), white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and QoL. In total, 81 eligible patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) were randomly allocated via single blind to four groups: consumed 2 L/day of AEW (n = 20), instructed to walk for 150 min/week (n = 20), received a combination of AEW and walking (n = 20), and continue their habitual diet and activity (n = 21). Data were collected and analyzed before and after 8 weeks of intervention. Our results showed a significant interaction between the group and time, with both AEW and walking independently and synergistically ameliorating AGEs, AOPPs, MDA, NLR and WBCs levels. Moreover, the AEW group had a higher physical and total QoL score. The walking group and the combined group had higher scores in physical, mental and total QoL compared to the control group. The synergistic effect of AEW and regular walking are an advisable treatment for patients with T2DM.
Application of Machine Learning Techniques to Delineate Homogeneous Climate Zones in River Basins of Pakistan for Hydro-Climatic Change Impact Studies
Authors: Nusrat Ammara , Gabriel Hamza Farooq , Haider Sajjad , Ahmad Shakil , Shahid Muhammad , Ahmed Jamal Saad
Published: October 2020

Climatic data archives, including grid-based remote-sensing and general circulation model (GCM) data, are used to identify future climate change trends. The performances of climate models vary in regions with spatio-temporal climatic heterogeneities because of uncertainties in model equations, anthropogenic forcing or climate variability. Hence, GCMs should be selected from climatically homogeneous zones. This study presents a framework for selecting GCMs and detecting future climate change trends after regionalizing the Indus river sub-basins in three basic steps: (1) regionalization of large river basins, based on spatial climate homogeneities, for four seasons using different machine learning algorithms and daily gridded precipitation data for 1975–2004; (2) selection of GCMs in each homogeneous climate region based on performance to simulate past climate and its temporal distribution pattern; (3) detecting future precipitation change trends using projected data (2006–2099) from the selected model for two future scenarios. The comprehensive framework, subject to some limitations and assumptions, provides divisional boundaries for the climatic zones in the study area, suitable GCMs for climate change impact projections for adaptation studies and spatially mapped precipitation change trend projections for four seasons. Thus, the importance of machine learning techniques for different types of analyses and managing long-term data is highlighted.
Evaluation of Damages to the Architectural Heritage of Naples as a Result of the Strongest Earthquakes of the Southern Apennines
Authors: Gaudiosi Germana , Alessio Giuliana , Nappi Rosa , Noviello Valentina , Spiga Efisio , Porfido Sabina
Published: October 2020

The city of Naples (Campanian region, Southern Italy) has been hit by the strongest earthquakes located inside the seismogenic areas of the Southern Apennines, as well as by the volcano-tectonic earthquakes of the surrounding areas of the Campi Flegrei, Ischia and Vesuvius volcanic districts. An analysis of the available seismic catalogues shows that in the last millennium, more than 100 earthquakes have struck Naples with intensities rating I to III on the Mercalli–Cancani–Sieberg (MCS) scale over the felt level. Ten of these events have exceeded the damage level, with a few of these possessing an intensity greater than VII MCS. The catastrophic earthquakes of 1456 (I0 = XI MCS), 1688 (I0 = XI MCS) and 1805 (I0 = X MCS) occurred in the Campania–Molise Apennines chain, produced devastating effects on the urban heritage of the city of Naples, reaching levels of damage equal to VIII MCS. In the 20th century, the city of Naples was hit by three strong earthquakes in 1930 (I0 = X MCS), 1962 (I0 = IX MCS) and 1980 (I0 = X MCS), all with epicenters in the Campania and Basilicata regions. The last one is still deeply engraved in the collective memory, having led to the deaths of nearly 3000 individuals and resulted in the near-total destruction of some Apennine villages. Moreover, the city of Naples has also been hit by ancient historical earthquakes that originated in the Campanian volcanic districts of Campi Flegrei, Vesuvio and Ischia, with intensities up to VII–VIII MCS (highest in the Vesuvian area). Based on the intensity and frequency of its past earthquakes, the city of Naples is currently classified in the second seismic category, meaning that it is characterized by “seismicity of medium energy”. In this paper, we determine the level of damage suffered by Naples and its monuments as a result of the strongest earthquakes that have hit the city throughout history, highlighting its repetitiveness in some areas. To this aim, we reconstructed the seismic history of some of the most representative urban monuments, using documentary and historical sources data related to the effects of strong earthquakes of the Southern Apennines on the city of Naples. The ultimate purpose of this study is to perform a seismic macro-zoning of the ancient center of city and reduce seismic risk. Our contribution represents an original elaboration on the existing literature by creating a damage-density map of the strongest earthquakes and highlighting, for the first time, the areas of the city of Naples that are most vulnerable to strong earthquakes in the future. These data could be of fundamental importance to the construction of detailed maps of seismic microzones. Our study contributes to the mitigation of seismic risk in the city of Naples, and provides useful advice that can be used to protect the historical heritage of Naples, whose historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
MAKEDONKA: Applied Deep Learning Model for Text-to-Speech Synthesis in Macedonian Language
Authors: Mishev Kostadin , Karovska Ristovska Aleksandra , Trajanov Dimitar , Eftimov Tome , Simjanoska Monika
Published: October 2020

This paper presents MAKEDONKA, the first open-source Macedonian language synthesizer that is based on the Deep Learning approach. The paper provides an overview of the numerous attempts to achieve a human-like reproducible speech, which has unfortunately shown to be unsuccessful due to the work invisibility and lack of integration examples with real software tools. The recent advances in Machine Learning, the Deep Learning-based methodologies, provide novel methods for feature engineering that allow for smooth transitions in the synthesized speech, making it sound natural and human-like. This paper presents a methodology for end-to-end speech synthesis that is based on a fully-convolutional sequence-to-sequence acoustic model with a position-augmented attention mechanism—Deep Voice 3. Our model directly synthesizes Macedonian speech from characters. We created a dataset that contains approximately 20 h of speech from a native Macedonian female speaker, and we use it to train the text-to-speech (TTS) model. The achieved MOS score of 3.93 makes our model appropriate for application in any kind of software that needs text-to-speech service in the Macedonian language. Our TTS platform is publicly available for use and ready for integration.
Building Energy an Simulation Model for Analyzing Energy Saving Options of Multi-Span Greenhouses
Authors: Rasheed Adnan , Kwak Cheul Soon , Kim Hyeon Tae , Lee Hyun Woo
Published: October 2020

This study proposes a multi-span greenhouse Building Energy Simulation (BES) model using a Transient System Simulation (TRNSYS)-18 program. A detailed BES model was developed and validated to simulate the thermal environment in the greenhouse under different design parameters for the multi-span greenhouse. Validation of the model was carried out by comparing the results from computed and experimental greenhouse internal temperatures. The statistical analyses produced an R2 value of 0.84, a root mean square error (RMSE) value of 1.8 °C, and a relative (r)RMSE value of 6.7%, showing good agreement between computed and experimental results. The validated proposed BES model was used to evaluate the effect of multi-span greenhouse design parameters including thermal screens, number of screens, orientation, covering materials, double glazing, north-wall insulation, roof geometry, and natural ventilation, on the annual energy demand of the greenhouse, subjected to Taean Gun (latitude 36.88° N, longitude 126.24° E), Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea winter and summer season weather conditions. Additionally, the proposed BES model is capable of evaluating multi-span greenhouse design parameters with daily and seasonal dynamic control of thermal and shading screens, natural ventilation, as well as heating and cooling set-points. The TRNSYS 18 program proved to be highly flexible for carrying out simulations under local weather conditions and user-defined design and control of the greenhouse. The statistical analysis of validated results should encourage the adoption of the proposed model when the underlying aim is to evaluate the design parameters of multi-span greenhouses considering local weather conditions and specific needs.