bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desenvolvimento de uma rede de sensores wireless utilizando protocolo ZigBee para monitoramento de dados e acionamento de atuadores
Authors: Melo Junior Gilberto de , Oliveira Filho Renato Milhomem de , Vieira Sílvio Leão , Macedo Sanderson Oliveira de , Furriel Geovanne Pereira , Silva Brunna Carolinne Rocha
Published: September 2020

Redes de sensores sem fio tem sido bastante utilizada nos últimos anos, tanto na indústria como nas residências com o intuito de automatizar os ambientes. O estudo tem como objetivo o desenvolvimento de uma Rede de Sensores sem fio utilizando protocolo ZigBee, para o monitoramento de luminosidade, temperatura e presença, com a adição de acionamento de uma lâmpada, no ambiente monitorado. Como resultado foi apresentado os dispositivos utilizados para implementação da rede e a validação por meio de testes realizados.
Definition, elements and stages of elaboration of research protocols
Authors: Silva Ronison Oliveira da , Ferreira Júlia Angélica de Oliveira Ataíde , Rivera Jose Anglada , Souza Silvestre Sales de , Nascimento-e-Silva Daniel
Published: September 2020

Although it is recognized as an instrument capable of guaranteeing transparency and assertiveness in scientific investigations, the research protocol is still little known by the academic community. The present study addresses research protocols with focus on three aspects: what they are, what characterizes them and how they are developed. The method used was the conceptual bibliography, based on the scientific papers available in the Google Scholar and Science Direct databases. The definitions found in the scientific literature consulted were interpreted based on techniques of semantic and content analysis. The results showed that: a) the research protocol is the outline of the methodology for collecting and analyzing data in order to achieve the research objectives, b) the protocols are composed of four stages: introductory, procedural, practical and drafting and c) the steps follow a procedural logic, in which the introductory excerpt describes the theme of the study, the procedural phase details the strategies used to collect and analyze data, the practical phase consists of obtaining the data that will support the research analysis and the editorial part it concerns the preparation of manuscripts for publication. The conclusion shows that the research protocols are methodological instruments used to guarantee the validity and reliability of the results.
Emerging medical therapies for severe alcoholic hepatitis
Authors: Tornai David , Szabo Gyongyi
Published: September 2020

Severe alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is an acute and often devastating form of alcohol-associated liver disease. Clinically, AH is characterized by elevated bilirubin, model for end stage liver disease scores >20, and nonspecific symptoms that are caused by underlying inflammation, hepatocyte injury, and impaired intestinal barrier function. Compromised immune defense in AH contributes to infections, sepsis and organ failure. To date, corticosteroids are the only recommended treatment for severe AH, however it does not provide survival benefits beyond 1 month. Recent preclinical and early clinical studies in AH aided understanding of the disease and presented opportunities for new therapeutic options targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, liver regeneration and modification of intestinal microbiota. In this comprehensive review, we discuss promising preclinical results and ongoing clinical trials evaluating novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of severe AH.
Hepatic Hippo signaling inhibits development of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Wang Xiaohui , Yang Yingzi
Published: September 2020

Primary liver cancer is one of the most common cancer worldwide. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in particular, is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the world. The Hippo signaling pathway has emerged as a major oncosuppressive pathway that plays critical roles inhibiting hepatocyte proliferation, survival, and HCC formation. A key component of the Hippo pathway is the inhibition of yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) transcription factors by the Hippo kinase cascade. Aberrant activation of YAP or TAZ has been found in several human cancers including HCC. It is also well established that YAP/TAZ activation in hepatocytes causes HCC in mouse models, indicating that YAP/TAZ are potential therapeutic targets for human liver cancer. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding the multifarious roles of Hippo/YAP/TAZ in HCC development, and focus on their cell autonomous roles in controlling hepatocyte proliferation, differentiation, survival and metabolism as well as their non-cell autonomous in shaping the tumor microenvironment.
Impact of winter fodder beet or kale allocation on body condition score gain and early lactation performance of dairy cows
Authors: Dalley Dawn E. , Edwards J. Paul , Woods Roshean R.
Published: September 2020

Forage crops such as fodder beet (FB) and kale are an important feature of dairy farming in Southland and Otago where winter pasture growth is negligible. However, farmers are concerned about poor performance of cows following winter FB feeding. In winter 2017, cows were offered FB or kale both with pasture baleage at two allocation rates: target (crop allocated to achieve a winter body condition score (BCS) gain of 0.7) or high (ad libitum crop). Diets with FB were lower in fibre, phosphorus, sulphur and calcium, but had a higher metabolizable energy, compared with kale diets. Body condition change and early lactation performance were monitored to compare effects of winter FB and kale diets. Average daily BCS gain before calving was similar for FB and kale cows. Crop type had a greater impact on cow performance than allocation rate. Cows wintered on FB had better reproductive performance (3-week pregnancy rate), and greater average milk solids, fat and protein yield (kg/d) than cows wintered on kale. Therefore, winter FB did not reduce cow performance compared with kale. However, the cumulative effects of a FB diet long term are yet to be determined and future research should monitor the impact on animal health.
SISTEM PENJAMINAN MUTU INTERNAL DAN EKSTENAL PADA LEMBAGA PENDIDIKAN TINGGI
Authors: Fadhli Muhammad
Published: September 2020

This study aims to portray internal and external quality assurance at higher education institutions, and the purpose of implementing quality assurance at educational institutions. In obtaining the data, this study used a library based qualitative approach by collecting data from books, journals, and articles. Based on the content analysis of the data, this study found that internal quality assurance includes: 1) policies and procedures for quality assurance; 2) approval, monitoring and periodic review of programs and awards; 3) student assessment; 4) quality assurance of teaching staff / lecturers; 5) resources student learning and support; 6) information systems; 7) public information. The external quality assurance includes: 1) use of procedures; 2) process development; 3) criteria for decisions; 4) processes in accordance with objectives; 5) reporting; 6) follow-up procedures; 7) periodic implementation reviews; and 8) system-wide analysis. The five objectives for quality assurance in educational institutions are improvement, innovation, communication, motivation, and control.
Understanding The Relationship Between Faith and Knowledge
Authors: Chia Philip Suciadi , Juanda Juanda
Published: September 2020

The issue of the relationship between faith and knowledge is very interesting to be studied from the contemporary times. Each period of life is unique in understanding the issues of faith and knowledge. Likewise, John Hick's opinion in his book ‘Faith and Knowledge’ is very interesting to be researched.In this brief paper, the writer limits the definitions analysis to Oxford Dictionary and John Hick. Then, the writer will evaluate those definitions to clarify the relationship between faith and knowledge. The understanding that opposes faith and knowledge will cause confusion when talking about the issue of them.Is there a gap between faith and knowledge? We would say that there is no gap between them. We admit, however, that there is a sequence or an order between them. First, it begins with the revelation of God that produces passive faith to us. Through various circumstances, experiences and education, we as human being will embrace the process of getting knowledge about reality and God’s revelation.
Духовное целительство в афро-кубинских религиозных традициях
Authors: Manichkin Nestor A.
Published: September 2020

The article is devoted to spiritual healing and therapeutic ceremonies of Afro-Cuban religious traditions. Particular attention is paid to the complex relationships of worshipers with spirits. In this regard, the circumstances and signs of spiritual chosenness, the connection between initiations and healing, as well as general ideas about the structure of being, which are the basis of Afro-Cuban healing, are examined. The article is based on the author's field reserach and literature on the topic.
RETRACTED: LINC01315 Impairs microRNA-211-Dependent DLG3 Downregulation to Inhibit the Development of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Fu-Bo , Wu Peng , Zhou Rong , Yang Qi-Xiang , Zhang Xu , Wang Rao-Rao , Qi Sheng-Cai , Yang Xi
Published: September 2020

Recent studies have revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) involve in the progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). These lncRNAs have emerged as biomarkers or therapeutic targets for OSCC. We here aimed to investigate the role of lncRNA LINC01315 in OSCC and the related mechanisms. LINC01315 and DLG3 were determined to be poorly expressed while microRNA-211 (miR-211) was highly expressed in OSCC tissues and cells using RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Based on the results obtained from dual-luciferase reporter gene, RIP, and FISH assays, LINC01315 was found to upregulate DLG3 expression by competitively binding to miR-211. Upon altering the expression of LINC01315, and/or miR-211 in OSCC cells with shRNA, mimic, or an inhibitor, we assessed their effects on OSCC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. LINC01315 knockdown enhanced OSCC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, but dampened their apoptosis, all of which could be reversed by miR-211 inhibition. Elevation of DLG3, a target gene of miR-211, activated the Hippo signaling pathway, whereby suppressing OSCC progression in vitro. Finally, their roles in tumor growth were validated in vivo. These findings suggest that LINC01315 elevates DLG3 expression by competitively binding to miR-211, thereby suppressing OSCC progression.
The Fermentation Process Improves the Nutritional Value of Rapeseed Cake for Turkeys—Effects on Performance, Gut Bacterial Population and Its Fermentative Activity
Authors: Drażbo Aleksandra Alicja , Juśkiewicz Jerzy , Józefiak Agata , Konieczka Paweł
Published: September 2020

This experiment investigated the potential inclusion of fermented rapeseed cake (FRC) in turkey diets. The turkeys received diets either not supplemented (C) or supplemented with raw rapeseed cake (RRC) or FRC at 150 g/kg diet. In comparison with RRC, turkeys receiving FRC achieved significantly higher final BW comparable with that noted in the control group. The dietary inclusion of FRC increased the concentrations of propionic and valeric acid in the cecal digesta compared with the control group, and increased the proportion of butyric acid in SCFA profile compared with RRC group. The activities of glycolytic bacterial enzymes in the cecal digesta, were lowest in turkeys fed FRC. Experimental diets did not cause a shift in the relative abundances of the main bacterial phyla or orders in the cecal digesta. FRC increased the abundance of Bacteroidaceae at the family level, but decreased the abundance of Lactobacillus at the genus level compared with birds fed RRC. In conclusion, the dietary inclusion of FRC at 150 g/kg did not compromise bird performance, did not excessively stimulate bacterial activity, and did not cause shifts in the bacterial composition in the cecum. Actually, FCR exerted several beneficial effects that contributed to maintaining gut health in turkeys, which points to its advantage over RRC.
Clostridium perfringens as Foodborne Pathogen in Broiler Production: Pathophysiology and Potential Strategies for Controlling Necrotic Enteritis
Authors: Mora Zuamí Villagrán-de la , Macías-Rodríguez María Esther , Arratia-Quijada Jenny , Gonzalez-Torres Yesica Sughey , Nuño Karla , Villarruel-López Angélica
Published: September 2020

Clostridium perfringens (Cp.) is the cause of human foodborne desease. Meat and poultry products are identified as the main source of infection for humans. Cp. can be found in poultry litter, feces, soil, dust, and healthy birds’ intestinal contents. Cp. strains are known to secrete over 20 identified toxins and enzymes that could potentially be the principal virulence factors, capable of degrading mucin, affecting enterocytes, and the small intestine epithelium, involved in necrotic enteritis (NE) pathophysiology, also leading to immunological responses, microbiota modification and anatomical changes. Different environmental and dietary factors can determine the colonization of this microorganism. It has been observed that the incidence of Cp-associated to NE in broilers has increased in countries that have stopped using antibiotic growth promoters. Since the banning of such antibiotic growth promoters, several strategies for Cp. control have been proposed, including dietary modifications, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, phytogenics, organic acids, and vaccines. However, there are aspects of the pathology that still need to be clarified to establish better actions to control and prevention. This paper reviews the current knowledge about Cp. as foodborne pathogen, the pathophysiology of NE, and recent findings on potential strategies for its control.
Starch-Rich Diet Induced Rumen Acidosis and Hindgut Dysbiosis in Dairy Cows of Different Lactations
Authors: Neubauer Viktoria , Petri Renee M. , Humer Elke , Kröger Iris , Reisinger Nicole , Baumgartner Walter , Wagner Martin , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: September 2020

Starch-rich diets can cause subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) in dairy cows with potentially different susceptibility according to lactation number. We wanted to evaluate the bacterial community and the fermentation end products in feces to study susceptibility to hindgut acidosis and dysbiosis. Sixteen dairy cows received a medium-concentrate diet (MC, 40% concentrate, 18.8% starch) for one week and a high-concentrate diet (HC, 60% concentrate, 27.7% starch, DM) for four weeks. Milk yield, dry-matter intake, chewing activity, ruminal pH, milk constituents, and fecal samples for short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), pH, and 16S rRNA-gene sequencing were investigated. The HC feeding caused a reduction in fecal pH, bacterial diversity and richness, an increase in total SCFA, and a separate phylogenetic clustering of MC and HC samples. Ruminal and fecal pH had fair correlation (r = 0.5). Cows in the second lactation (2ndL) had lower dry matter intake (DMI) than cows of third or fourth or more lactations (3rdL; ≥4 L), whereas DMI/kg body weight was lower for ≥4 L than for 2ndL and 3rdL cows. The mean ruminal pH was highest in ≥4 L, whereas the time spent below the SARA threshold was highest for 3rdL cows. The latter also had higher total SCFA in the feces. Our results suggest that hindgut dysbiosis is caused by increased substrate flow to the hindgut, but further investigations are needed to define hindgut acidosis. The 3rdL cows were most susceptible to rumen acidosis and hindgut dysbiosis due to high DMI level, but missing counter regulations, as suggested happening in 2ndL and ≥4 L cows.
Effects of Dietary Substitution of Alfalfa Silage with Virginia Fanpetals Silage in Lactating Polish Holstein Friesian Dairy Cows
Authors: Purwin Cezary , Nogalski Zenon , Starczewski Maciej , Czurgiel Sylwia , Fijałkowska Maja , Momot Martyna , Borsuk Marta
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of partial or complete substitution of alfalfa silage with Virginia fanpetals silage in rations based on maize silage on feed intake, digestibility, ruminal fermentation and milk yield and physicochemical characteristics. Nine Polish Holstein Friesian cows in the second half of lactation were fed three experimental diets in a replicated 3 × 3 Latin square design as follows: maize silage + alfalfa silage, maize silage + alfalfa silage and Virginia fanpetals silage in a 50:50 ratio, maize silage + Virginia fanpetals silage. Complete substitution caused an increase in dry matter intake (DMI), total volatile fatty acids (VFA), acetic acid to propionic acid (A/P) ratio, N-NH3 in the rumen contents and milk urea and a decrease in the feed conversion ratio. The partial and complete substitution changed the profile of milk fatty acids, resulting in a slight increase in saturated fatty acids (SFA) and a decrease in unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) as well as in all functional fatty acids except vaccenic acid. The most promising production effects were achieved through partial substitution of alfalfa silage with the Virginia fanpetals silage.
Avian Viruses that Impact Table Egg Production
Authors: Hassan Mohamed S. H. , Abdul-Careem Mohamed Faizal
Published: September 2020

Eggs are a common source of protein and other nutrient components for people worldwide. Commercial egg-laying birds encounter several challenges during the long production cycle. An efficient egg production process requires a healthy bird with a competent reproductive system. Several viral pathogens that can impact the bird’s health or induce reversible or irreversible lesions in the female reproductive organs adversely interfere with the egg industry. The negative effects exerted by viral diseases create a temporary or permanent decrease in egg production, in addition to the production of low-quality eggs. Several factors including, but not limited to, the age of the bird, and the infecting viral strain and part of reproductive system involved contribute to the form of reproductive disease encountered. Advanced methodologies have successfully elucidated some of the virus–host interactions relevant to the hen’s reproductive performance, however, this branch needs further research. This review discusses the major avian viral infections that have been reported to adversely affect egg productivity and quality and aims to summarize the current understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the observed negative effects.
Do Differing Levels of Boldness Influence the Success of Translocation? A Pilot Study on Red Squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris)
Authors: Bamber Jack A. , Shuttleworth Craig M. , Hayward Matt W.
Published: September 2020

Conservation translocations, including reintroductions, are practices that are vital to restoring biodiversity and ecosystem function within conservation schemes globally. Sadly, population translocations have had a poor success rate historically. At a time where biodiversity is constantly decreasing, improving translocation success is vital for future conservation schemes. Often, to improve success, the selection of individuals is based on genetic characteristics and behaviours linked directly to survival. Further development to improve selection is proposed within this paper using animal personality. The study took place opportunistically to test how personality, in particular an animal’s boldness/timidness, may influence a population restoration of red squirrels into the Ogwen Valley, North Wales. Despite frequent translocations, data on how boldness and timidness may affect the establishment of this species are low. Testing was performed on key survival behaviours and boldness/timidness pre-release. This was performed via video data collection and identification of key behaviours that could be used to identify boldness or behaviours that could be linked to reduced fitness once released. Encounters at different distance intervals were monitored post-release via camera trapping to identify if boldness/timidness may change the furthest encounter distance of focal animals away from their release site. Relationships between the period for an individual to reappear post-threat was significantly linked to boldness, with other behavioural results and the encounter distance also showing trends of a potential relationship. Our results indicate that bolder individuals have a higher chance of expressing behavioural traits that will increase exposure to risks and, therefore, reduce the likelihood of successfully establishing populations. However, the small sample size of this study means that further research is needed. We suggest that during early stages of conservation translocation programmes, personality testing for boldness should become common practice, and we recommend selecting timid individuals for an initial release to improve population establishment, with bolder individuals utilised later to expand population distribution.
Energy Consumption of Young Military Working Dogs in Pre-Training in Germany
Authors: Schäfer Wencke , Hankel Julia
Published: September 2020

Many factors have specific effects, in varying degrees of intensity, on the metabolic energy requirements of working dogs. Appropriate energy supply adjusted to the requirements of military working dogs at pre-training is a basic prerequisite for working dogs, so they are fully able to exercise. Therefore, more knowledge obtained under standardized conditions would be advantageous. Twenty intact Belgian Shepherds var. Malinois at the age of 12 months were accompanied for four weeks during pre-training (odour detection, obedience training, and protection work) as military working dogs (MWDs) in Germany (ambient temperature about 7.8 °C), and the amount of energy intake was evaluated. To assess changes in body constitution, body weight and shoulder height were measured, and the thickness of subcutaneous fat tissue (SCF), and of Musculus sacrocaudalis dorsalis lateralis (MSCDL), were recorded via ultrasound. Energy intake amounted to, on average, 244 ± 34 kcal/kg body weight (BW)0.75 daily. Increases in body weight, shoulder height, and thickness of the MSCDL, as well as a reduction of SCF thickness lying on the MSCDL, were observed. Changes of body constitution might be attributed to training-induced muscle growth and physiological growth in size. In addition to training intensity, influences of ambient temperature and physiological body growth seemed to be important contributing factors in the supply of energy for MWDs during pre-training.
The Use of Pork from Entire Male and Immunocastrated Pigs for Meat Products—An Overview with Recommendations
Authors: Škrlep Martin , Tomašević Igor , Mörlein Daniel , Novaković Saša , Egea Macarena , Garrido María Dolores , Linares María Belén , Peñaranda Irene , Aluwé Marijke , Font-i-Furnols Maria
Published: September 2020

Due to the strong public initiative in Europe and increased regulator focus to mitigate pain, surgical castration of pigs is being gradually abandoned, while the importance of other sex categories like entire males (EM) and immunocastrates (IC) increases. Although beneficial for animal welfare and economics, their use also brings forward several quality problems. Besides the occurrence of boar taint in EM, these include excessive carcass leanness, softer fat, meat color and pH deviations, inferior water holding capacity and increased meat toughness. In this paper, the raw material differences between the male sex categories and their influence on product quality are reviewed, and possible solutions are presented. Using EM for dried or thermally processed products may result in lower processing yields and inferior sensory quality, which may partially be prevented by applying specific processing adaptations. Immunocastration is a viable solution, especially when prolonging the vaccination to slaughter interval. Low to medium levels of boar taint can be effectively managed in most of the meat products, applying procedures like cooking, microbial inoculation or masking (by spices and especially smoking), while highly tainted material can be valorized only by combining various methods and/or with dilution of the tainted meat.
Effects of Effective Microorganisms on Meat Quality, Microstructure of the Longissimus Lumborum Muscle, and Electrophoretic Protein Separation in Pigs Fed on Different Diets
Authors: Reszka Patrycja , Cygan-Szczegielniak Dorota , Jankowiak Hanna , Cebulska Aleksandra , Mikołajczak Beata , Bogucka Joanna
Published: September 2020

The aim of the study was to determine how effective microorganisms influence meat quality, the microstructure of the longissimus lumborum muscle, and electrophoretic protein separation. The study group consisted of 150 piglets divided into three feeding groups: C, E1, and E2. The feeding groups included C—a standard fodder blend with a full share of post-extracted soya meal; E1—a 50%/50% mix of pea and lupine/soya bean in phase I of fattening and a 75%/25% mix of pea and lupine/soya bean in phase II of fattening; and E2—a 50%/50% mix of pea and lupine/soya bean in phase I of fattening and in 100% pea and lupine in phase II of fattening. The experimental factor was the addition of the EM Carbon Bokashi probiotic to the diet (C + EM, E1 + EM, E2 + EM). Influence of the feeding system on the following parameters was also estimated. After slaughter, the meat quality, LL muscle microstructure, and electrophoretic protein separation were assessed. In the C + EM group, a lower water-holding capacity was demonstrated. Meat from pigs fed the effective microorganism additive was much harder in the E1+EM group compared to meat from pigs from the E1 group. A beneficial effect of effective microorganism was found in the E2 + EM group, where less thermal leakage from the meat was demonstrated. A beneficial effect of the feeding system on thermal leakage and loin eye area in the E2 + EM group was demonstrated. In the C + EM group, a lower total number of muscle fibers was demonstrated. The addition of effective microorganism caused an increase in the diameter of fast twitch fibers in the E1 + EM group. In the same group of pigs, effective microorganisms caused a lower proportion of fiber fission. This nutritional variant appears to be the most appropriate for proteins as well, because it led to the most favorable percentage of individual proteins after effective microorganisms supplementation in the longissimus lumborum muscle.
Serum Health Biomarkers in African and Asian Elephants: Value Ranges and Clinical Values Indicative of the Immune Response
Authors: Edwards Katie L. , Miller Michele A. , Siegal-Willott Jessica , Brown Janine L.
Published: September 2020

Serum biomarkers indicative of inflammation and disease can provide useful information regarding host immune processes, responses to treatment and prognosis. The aims of this study were to assess the use of commercially available anti-equine reagents for the quantification of cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukins (IL) 2, 6, and 10) in African (Loxodonta africana, n = 125) and Asian (Elephas maximus, n = 104) elephants, and alongside previously validated anti-human reagents for acute-phase proteins (serum amyloid A and haptoglobin), calculate species-specific biomarker value ranges. In addition, we used opportunistically collected samples to investigate the concentrations of each biomarker during identified clinical cases of illness or injury, as a first step to understanding what biomarkers may be useful to managing elephant health. Immune biomarkers were each elevated above the calculated species-specific value ranges in at least one clinical case, but due to variability in both clinical and non-clinical samples, only serum amyloid A was significantly higher in clinical compared to non-clinical paired samples, with tendencies for higher TNF-α and IL-10. We also detected increased secretion of serum amyloid A and all five cytokines following routine vaccination of a single Asian elephant, indicating that these biomarkers can be beneficial for studying normal immune processes as well as pathology. This study indicates that assays developed with commercial reagents can be used to quantify health biomarkers in wildlife species and identifies several that warrant further investigation to elucidate immune responses to various pathologies.
Understanding German Pig Farmers’ Intentions to Design and Construct Pig Housing for the Improvement of Animal Welfare
Authors: Winkel Carolin , von Meyer-Höfer Marie , Heise Heinke
Published: September 2020

Improving farm animal welfare requires modifications to the behavior of many stakeholders. Investments in more animal-friendly barns to improve animal welfare have already been made by some farmers. However, more farmers must be persuaded to modernize their barns. The marketing of animal-friendly products is the responsibility of retailers, and consumers have to purchase these products. Currently, little is known about what (and how) underlying psychological factors influence a farmer’s intention to construct pig housing to improve farm animal welfare. Pig farmers in Germany were questioned via an online questionnaire in May 2020 (n = 424). Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), partial least squares path modeling was used. The constructs: attitude, subjective norm, direct and indirect experience associated with the construction of pig housing substantially influenced the farmers’ behaviors. As expected, the impact of perceived behavioral control on intention was negative but was also very low and only slightly significant. Contrary to expectations, the perceived behavioral control had no significant influence on farmers’ behaviors. Pig farmers who have already rebuilt their pigs’ housing should be motivated to share their experiences to influence their colleagues’ intentions to construct. Our results will encourage policy makers to consider the important role of the different psychological and intrinsic factors influencing pig farmers. Thus, the sustainability of pig farming can be improved by giving politicians a better understanding of farmers’ behaviors.
Granular Material Development Applied in an Experimental Section for Civil Engineering Purposes
Authors: Giro-Paloma Jessica , Formosa Joan , Chimenos Josep M.
Published: September 2020

In this study, a granular material (GM) derived from wastes generated in waste-to-energy plants was developed. Weathered bottom ash (WBA) and air pollution control (APC) ashes obtained from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) were used as raw materials. A mortar (M) with 50 wt. % of APC and 50 wt. % of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) CEM-I was prepared. The GM formulation was 20 wt. % M and 80 wt. % WBA. At the laboratory scale, WBA, APC, M, and crushed GM were evaluated by means of dynamic leaching (EN 12457-4) tests, and WBA, M, and crushed GM by percolation column (CEN/TS 16637) tests. The metal(loid)s analyzed were below the non-hazardous limits, regarding the requirement of the metal(loid)s released for waste revalorization. In order to simulate a road subbase real scenario, the crushed GM was tested in an experimental section (10 × 20 × 0.2 m). During a 600-day period, the leachates generated by the percolation of rainwater were collected. This research shows outstanding results regarding the metal(loid)s released for both the “accumulated” and “punctual” leachates collected. An accomplishment in the immobilization of metal(loid)s from APC residues was achieved because of the encapsulation effect of the cement. The GM formulation from both MSWI wastes can be considered an environmentally safe procedure for revalorizing APC residues.
Effect of Climate Change on Annual Precipitation in Korea Using Data Screening Techniques and Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Lim Ga-Kyun , Kim Byung-Sik , Lee Byung-Hyun , Jeung Se-Jin
Published: September 2020

Precipitation is essential for understanding hydrological processes and identifying the characteristics that must be considered to protect human lives and property from natural disasters. Hydrological analyses assume that precipitation shows stationarity. However, because of the recent changes in climate, the stationarity of climate data has been widely debated, and a need has arisen to analyze its nonstationary nature. In this study, we reviewed a method to analyze the stationarity of annual precipitation data from 37 meteorological stations that have recorded data for more than 45 years. Six stations that showed abnormal precipitation during the previous year were selected to evaluate the normality of future precipitation. The results showed that a significant trend was present in four out of 37 stations with unstable precipitation in 22 stations and persistent precipitation in 4 stations. The stationarity analysis of future annual precipitation using climate change scenarios suggested that no trend would be present in 11 stations and that unstable precipitation would be present in six stations. Persistent precipitation was identified in four stations. A comparison between the historical and predicted precipitation data conducted with the climate change scenarios showed that an increasing number of stations presented nonstationarity. Therefore, both stationarity and nonstationarity should be considered when performing hydrological analyses using annual precipitation data in Korea. Accordingly, prior to conducting any such analyses, the effect of climate change on annual precipitation should also be considered.
Mobile Aerosol Raman Polarizing Lidar LOSA-A2 for Atmospheric Sounding
Authors: Nasonov Sergei , Balin Yurii , Klemasheva Marina , Kokhanenko Grigorii , Novoselov Mikhail , Penner Iogannes , Samoilova Svetlana , Khodzher Tamara
Published: September 2020

The mobile aerosol Raman polarizing lidar LOSA-A2 designed at V.E. Zuev Institute of Atmospheric Optics SB RAS is presented. Its main technical specifications are given. The lidar carries out sounding of the atmosphere of a Nd:YAG laser at two wavelengths, 1064 nm and 532 nm. Optical selection of lidar signals at these wavelengths is performed by two identical telescopes with diameters of 120 mm and a focal length of 500 mm. In the visible channel, the signal is divided into two orthogonal polarized components, and a Raman signal at a wavelength of 607 nm is separated. The lidar was tested in aircraft and ship research expeditions. Results of the study of spatial aerosol distribution over the Baikal with the use of LOSA-A2 lidar received during ship-based research expeditions are described. The first in situ tests of the lidar were carried out in an aircraft expedition in the north of Western Siberia.
Measuring the Vertical Profiles of Aerosol Extinction in the Lower Troposphere by MAX-DOAS at a Rural Site in the North China Plain
Authors: Cheng Siyang , Jin Junli , Ma Jianzhong , Xu Xiaobin , Ran Liang , Ma Zhiqiang , Chen Junming , Guo Junrang , Yang Peng , Wang Yang , Wagner Thomas
Published: September 2020

Ground-based multi-axis differential optical absorption spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) measurements were performed during the summer (13 June–20 August) of 2014 at a rural site in North China Plain. The vertical profiles of aerosol extinction (AE) in the lower troposphere were retrieved to analyze the temporal variations of AE profiles, near-surface AE, and aerosol optical depth (AOD). The average AOD and near-surface AE over the period of study were 0.51 ± 0.26 and 0.33 ± 0.18 km−1 during the effective observation period, respectively. High AE events and elevated AE layers were identified based on the time series of hourly AE profiles, near-surface AEs and AODs. It is found that in addition to the planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) and relative humidity (RH), the variations in the wind field have large impacts on the near-surface AE, AOD, and AE profile. Among 16 wind sectors, higher AOD or AE occur mostly in the directions of the cities upstream. The diurnal variations of the AE profiles, AODs and near-surface AEs are significant and influenced mainly by the source emissions, PBLH, and RH. The AE profile shape from MAX-DOAS measurement is generally in agreement with that from light detection and ranging (lidar) observations, although the AE absolute levels are different. Overall, ground-based MAX-DOAS can serve as a supplement to measure the AE vertical profiles in the lower troposphere.
Crosstalk between Opioid and Anti-Opioid Systems: An Overview and Its Possible Therapeutic Significance
Authors: Gibula-Tarlowska Ewa , Kotlinska Jolanta H.
Published: September 2020

Opioid peptides and receptors are broadly expressed throughout peripheral and central nervous systems and have been the subject of intense long-term investigations. Such studies indicate that some endogenous neuropeptides, called anti-opioids, participate in a homeostatic system that tends to reduce the effects of endogenous and exogenous opioids. Anti-opioid properties have been attributed to various peptides, including melanocyte inhibiting factor (MIF)-related peptides, cholecystokinin (CCK), nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), and neuropeptide FF (NPFF). These peptides counteract some of the acute effects of opioids, and therefore, they are involved in the development of opioid tolerance and addiction. In this work, the anti-opioid profile of endogenous peptides was described, mainly taking into account their inhibitory influence on opioid-induced effects. However, the anti-opioid peptides demonstrated complex properties and could show opioid-like as well as anti-opioid effects. The aim of this review is to detail the phenomenon of crosstalk taking place between opioid and anti-opioid systems at the in vivo pharmacological level and to propose a cellular and molecular basis for these interactions. A better knowledge of these mechanisms has potential therapeutic interest for the control of opioid functions, notably for alleviating pain and/or for the treatment of opioid abuse.
Lupeol, a Plant-Derived Triterpenoid, Protects Mice Brains against Aβ-Induced Oxidative Stress and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Ahmad Riaz , Khan Amjad , Lee Hyeon Jin , Ur Rehman Inayat , Khan Ibrahim , Alam Sayed Ibrar , Kim Myeong Ok
Published: September 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that represents 60–70% of all dementia cases. AD is characterized by the formation and accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal cell loss. Further accumulation of Aβ in the brain induces oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and synaptic and memory dysfunction. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of the natural triterpenoid lupeol in the Aβ1–42 mouse model of AD. An Intracerebroventricular injection (i.c.v.) of Aβ (3 µL/5 min/mouse) into the brain of a mouse increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, neuroinflammation, and memory and cognitive dysfunction. The oral administration of lupeol at a dose of 50 mg/kg for two weeks significantly decreased the oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and memory impairments. Lupeol decreased the oxidative stress via the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor-2 (Nrf-2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) in the brain of adult mice. Moreover, lupeol treatment prevented neuroinflammation by suppressing activated glial cells and inflammatory mediators. Additionally, lupeol treatment significantly decreased the accumulation of Aβ and beta-secretase-1 (BACE-1) expression and enhanced the memory and cognitive function in the Aβ-mouse model of AD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the anti-oxidative and neuroprotective effects of lupeol against Aβ1–42-induced neurotoxicity. Our findings suggest that lupeol could serve as a novel, promising, and accessible neuroprotective agent against progressive neurodegenerative diseases such as AD.
Recent Advances on the Role of GSK3β in the Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Choi Hyun-Jun , Cha Sun Joo , Lee Jang-Won , Kim Hyung-Jun , Kim Kiyoung
Published: September 2020

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a common neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive motor neuron degeneration. Although several studies on genes involved in ALS have substantially expanded and improved our understanding of ALS pathogenesis, the exact molecular mechanisms underlying this disease remain poorly understood. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) is a multifunctional serine/threonine-protein kinase that plays a critical role in the regulation of various cellular signaling pathways. Dysregulation of GSK3β activity in neuronal cells has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Previous research indicates that GSK3β inactivation plays a neuroprotective role in ALS pathogenesis. GSK3β activity shows an increase in various ALS models and patients. Furthermore, GSK3β inhibition can suppress the defective phenotypes caused by SOD, TDP-43, and FUS expression in various models. This review focuses on the most recent studies related to the therapeutic effect of GSK3β in ALS and provides an overview of how the dysfunction of GSK3β activity contributes to ALS pathogenesis.
Effects of Psychoactive Massage in Outpatients with Depressive Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Arnold Michaela Maria , Müller-Oerlinghausen Bruno , Hemrich Norbert , Bönsch Dominikus
Published: September 2020

The clinical picture of depressive disorders is characterized by a plethora of somatic symptoms, psychomotor retardation, and, particularly, anhedonia. The number of patients with residual symptoms or treatment resistance is high. Touch is the basic communication among humans and animals. Its application professionally in the form of, e.g., psychoactive massage therapy, has been shown in the past to reduce the somatic and mental symptoms of depression and anxiety. Here, we investigated the effects of a specially developed affect-regulating massage therapy (ARMT) vs. individual treatment with a standardized relaxation procedure, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), in 57 outpatients with depression. Patients were given one ARMT or PMR session weekly over 4 weeks. Changes in somatic and cognitive symptoms were assessed by standard psychiatric instruments (Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) and the Bech–Rafaelsen–Melancholia–Scale (BRMS)) as well as a visual analogue scale. Furthermore, oral statements from all participants were obtained in semi-structured interviews. The findings show clear and statistically significant superiority of ARMT over PMR. The results might be interpreted within various models. The concept of interoception, as well as the principles of body psychotherapy and phenomenological aspects, offers cues for understanding the mechanisms involved. Within a neurobiological context, the significance of C-tactile afferents activated by special touch techniques and humoral changes such as increased oxytocin levels open additional ways of interpreting our findings.
The 12-Item Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depressive Mixed State (DMX-12) for Screening of Mixed Depression and Mixed Features
Authors: Shinzato Hotaka , Zamami Yu , Kondo Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2020

For simultaneous screening of mixed features (MF) by DSM-5 and mixed depression (MD) by Benazzi, useful symptoms were extracted from our 12-item dimensional scale for depressive mixed state (DMX-12). Subjects were 190 consecutive cases with major depressive episode (MDE) who visited our clinic. Associations between symptomatological combinations of the DMX-12 and MF or MD were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC). The rate of MF was 4.2% while that of MD was 22.6%. Eight symptoms (overreactivity, inner tension, racing/crowded thought, impulsivity, irritability, aggression, risk-taking behavior, and dysphoria) with their AUC > 0.6 for ROC curves were specially focused on distinguishing patients with MF or MD from non-mixed patients. By using these 8 symptoms, 40.5% of the overall patients were screened as positive at the same cut-off value (≥13) for both MD and MF. The AUC of ROC curve and sensitivity/specificity were well balanced together with sufficient negative predictive values. The abovementioned 8 symptoms seem to be helpful for primary screening and negative check of DMX with considerable severity during MDE.
Participatory Art Activities Increase Salivary Oxytocin Secretion of ASD Children
Authors: Tanaka Sanae , Komagome Aiko , Iguchi-Sherry Aya , Nagasaka Akiko , Yuhi Teruko , Higashida Haruhiro , Rooksby Maki , Kikuchi Mitsuru , Arai Oko , Minami Kana , Tsuji Takahiro , Tsuji Chiharu
Published: September 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) occurs in 1 in 160 children worldwide. Individuals with ASD tend to be unique in the way that they comprehend themselves and others, as well as in the way that they interact and socialize, which can lead to challenges with social adaptation. There is currently no medication to improve the social deficit of children with ASD, and consequently, behavioral and complementary/alternative intervention plays an important role. In the present pilot study, we focused on the neuroendocrinological response to participatory art activities, which are known to have a positive effect on emotion, self-expression, sociability, and physical wellbeing. We collected saliva from 12 children with ASD and eight typically developed (TD) children before and after a visual art-based participatory art workshop to measure the levels of oxytocin, a neuropeptide involved in a wide range of social behaviors. We demonstrated that the rate of increase in salivary oxytocin following art activities in ASD children was significantly higher than that in TD children. In contrast, the change rate of salivary cortisol after participatory art activities was similar between the two groups. These results suggest that the beneficial effects of participatory art activities may be partially mediated by oxytocin release, and may have therapeutic potential for disorders involving social dysfunction.
O-Arm Navigated Frameless and Fiducial-Less Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Krahulík David , Nevrlý Martin , Otruba Pavel , Bardoň Jan , Hrabálek Lumír , Pohlodek Daniel , Kaňovský Petr , Valošek Jan
Published: September 2020

Object: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a very useful procedure for the treatment of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD), essential tremor, and dystonia. The authors evaluated the accuracy of the new method used in their center for the placing of DBS electrodes. Electrodes are placed using the intraoperative O-arm™ (Medtronic)-controlled frameless and fiducial-less system, Nexframe™ (Medtronic). Accuracy was evaluated prospectively in eleven consecutive PD patients (22 electrodes). Methods: Eleven adult patients with PD were implanted using the Nexframe system without fiducials and with the intraoperative O-arm (Medtronic) system and StealthStation™ S8 navigation (Medtronic). The implantation of DBS leads was performed using multiple-cell microelectrode recording, and intraoperative test stimulation to determine thresholds for stimulation-induced adverse effects. The accuracy was checked in three different steps: (1) using the intraoperative O-arm image and its fusion with preoperative planning, (2) using multiple-cell microelectrode recording and counting the number of microelectrodes with the signal of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and finally, (3) total error was calculated according to a postoperative CT control image fused to preoperative planning. Results: The total error of the procedure was 1.79 mm; the radial error and the vector error were 171 mm and 163 mm. Conclusions: Implantation of DBS electrodes using an O-arm navigated frameless and fiducial-less system is a very useful and technically feasible procedure with excellent patient toleration with experienced Nexframe users. The accuracy of the method was confirmed at all three steps, and it is comparable to other published results.