bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Human Brucellosis in China Based on Temperature and NDVI
Authors: Zhao Yongqing , Li Rendong , Qiu Juan , Sun Xiangdong , Gao Lu , Wu Mingquan
Published: November 2019

Brucellosis occurs periodically and causes great economic and health burdens. Brucellosis prediction plays an important role in its prevention and treatment. This paper establishes relationships between human brucellosis (HB) and land surface temperature (LST), and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). A seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average with exogenous variables (SARIMAX) model is constructed to predict trends in brucellosis rates. The fitted results (Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) = 807.58, Schwarz Bayes Criterion (SBC) = 819.28) showed obvious periodicity and a rate of increase of 138.68% from January 2011 to May 2016. We found a significant effect between HB and NDVI. At the same time, the prediction part showed that the highest monthly incidence per year has a decreasing trend after 2015. This may be because of the brucellosis prevention and control measures taken by the Chinese Government. The proposed model allows the early detection of brucellosis outbreaks, allowing more effective prevention and control.
Public Awareness of Tuberculosis in Southeast China: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chen Xinyi , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaomeng , Chai Chengliang , Liu Kui , Peng Ying , Wang Fei , Chen Bin , Jiang Jianmin
Published: November 2019

Few provinces in China have recently conducted population-based surveys on tuberculosis (TB) awareness at the provincial level. Hence, we conducted a population-based, cross-sectional study to evaluate the level of awareness of TB knowledge among residents of Zhejiang Province, China from October 2018 to December 2018. A total of 7174 individuals were randomly selected to participate in this survey. The rate of awareness of key information on TB was found to be 48.0%. The study’s participants exhibited a good understanding of the transmission route (80.8%), curable outcome (78.3%), and designated treatment sites (67.0%) of TB. The rate of awareness of suspicious TB symptoms (36.1%) and the relief policy on diagnosis and first-line therapeutic drugs (38.0%) were found to be relatively low among the respondents. People living in rural areas, those who were less educated, and students all showed a low level of awareness of key knowledge about TB. In conclusion, residents in Zhejiang Province generally lacked key information about TB, which is not conducive to the early detection and treatment of TB. Corresponding efforts should be made for different groups of people to achieve favorable effects on the prevention and control of TB.
Effects of Endurance and Endurance–Strength Training on Endothelial Function in Women with Obesity: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Ratajczak Marzena , Skrypnik Damian , Bogdański Paweł , Mądry Edyta , Walkowiak Jarosław , Szulińska Monika , Maciaszek Janusz , Kręgielska-Narożna Matylda , Karolkiewicz Joanna
Published: November 2019

Some investigations have demonstrated that a combined endurance–strength training is the most effective in the treatment of obesity. The aim of the research was to access how different trainings influence: endothelial function, lipid metabolism, and risk of atherosclerosis in women with obesity. In a randomized trial, 39 obese women aged 28–62 completed endurance (n = 22, 60-80% HRmax) or combined training (n = 17, 20 minutes of strength exercises, 50–60% 1RM and 25 minutes of endurance training, 60-80% HRmax). Before and after the intervention vascular endothelial function (endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), blood total antioxidant capacity (TAC)), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides and C-reactive protein (CRP)as well as visceral adiposity index (VAI), total-body skeletal muscle mass and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) were determined. After the trainings, in both groups total cholesterol and total-body skeletal muscle mass increased (p < 0.05). In the group undergoing combined training, lower (p < 0.05) VAI, AIP, CRP and LDL-C were noted. In the group undergoing endurance training TBARS concentration decreased (p < 0.01), while the HDL-C (p < 0.01) concentration as well as eNOS (p < 0.05) activity increased. No significant differences between groups were found, either before or after the programs. Both training programs led to the improvement of lipid metabolism, but only endurance training alone favorably changed indicators of endothelial functions in women with obesity.
Immune and Inflammatory Cells of the Tumor Microenvironment Represent Novel Therapeutic Targets in Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Calabretta Eleonora , d’Amore Francesco , Carlo-Stella Carmelo
Published: November 2019

Classical Hodgkin Lymphoma (cHL) is a B-cell malignancy that, typically, responds well to standard therapies. However, patients who relapse after standard regimens or are refractory to induction therapy have a dismal outcome. The implementation of novel therapies such as the anti-CD30 monoclonal antibody Brentuximab Vedotin and immune checkpoint inhibitors has provided curative options for many of these patients. Nonetheless, responses are rarely durable, emphasizing the need for new agents. cHL is characterized by a unique microenvironment in which cellular and humoral components interact to promote tumor survival and dissemination. Knowledge of the complex composition of cHL microenvironment is constantly evolving; in particular, there is growing interest in certain cell subsets such as tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and neutrophils, all of which have a relevant role in the pathogenesis of the disease. The unique biology of the cHL microenvironment has provided opportunities to develop new drugs, many of which are currently being tested in preclinical and clinical settings. In this review, we will summarize novel insights in the crosstalk between tumor cells and non-malignant inflammatory cells. In addition, we will discuss the relevance of tumor-microenvironment interactions as potential therapeutic targets.
The Alanine World Model for the Development of the Amino Acid Repertoire in Protein Biosynthesis
Authors: Kubyshkin Vladimir , Budisa Nediljko
Published: November 2019

A central question in the evolution of the modern translation machinery is the origin and chemical ethology of the amino acids prescribed by the genetic code. The RNA World hypothesis postulates that templated protein synthesis has emerged in the transition from RNA to the Protein World. The sequence of these events and principles behind the acquisition of amino acids to this process remain elusive. Here we describe a model for this process by following the scheme previously proposed by Hartman and Smith, which suggests gradual expansion of the coding space as GC–GCA–GCAU genetic code. We point out a correlation of this scheme with the hierarchy of the protein folding. The model follows the sequence of steps in the process of the amino acid recruitment and fits well with the co-evolution and coenzyme handle theories. While the starting set (GC-phase) was responsible for the nucleotide biosynthesis processes, in the second phase alanine-based amino acids (GCA-phase) were recruited from the core metabolism, thereby providing a standard secondary structure, the α-helix. In the final phase (GCAU-phase), the amino acids were appended to the already existing architecture, enabling tertiary fold and membrane interactions. The whole scheme indicates strongly that the choice for the alanine core was done at the GCA-phase, while glycine and proline remained rudiments from the GC-phase. We suggest that the Protein World should rather be considered the Alanine World, as it predominantly relies on the alanine as the core chemical scaffold.
Targeting Cancer Resistance via Multifunctional Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Pedrosa Pedro , Corvo M. Luísa , Ferreira-Silva Margarida , Martins Pedro , Carvalheiro Manuela Colla , Costa Pedro M. , Martins Carla , Martins L. M. D. R. S. , Baptista Pedro V. , Fernandes Alexandra R.
Published: November 2019

Resistance to chemotherapy is a major problem facing current cancer therapy, which is continuously aiming at the development of new compounds that are capable of tackling tumors that developed resistance toward common chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin (DOX). Alongside the development of new generations of compounds, nanotechnology-based delivery strategies can significantly improve the in vivo drug stability and target specificity for overcoming drug resistance. In this study, multifunctional gold nanoparticles (AuNP) have been used as a nanoplatform for the targeted delivery of an original anticancer agent, a Zn(II) coordination compound [Zn(DION)2]Cl2 (ZnD), toward better efficacy against DOX-resistant colorectal carcinoma cells (HCT116 DR). Selective delivery of the ZnD nanosystem to cancer cells was achieved by active targeting via cetuximab, NanoZnD, which significantly inhibited cell proliferation and triggered the death of resistant tumor cells, thus improving efficacy. In vivo studies in a colorectal DOX-resistant model corroborated the capability of NanoZnD for the selective targeting of cancer cells, leading to a reduction of tumor growth without systemic toxicity. This approach highlights the potential of gold nanoformulations for the targeting of drug-resistant cancer cells.
Therapeutic Properties of Mesenchymal Stem Cell on Organ Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Oliva Joan
Published: November 2019

The shortage of donor organs is a major global concern. Organ failure requires the transplantation of functional organs. Donor’s organs are preserved for variable periods of warm and cold ischemia time, which requires placing them into a preservation device. Ischemia and reperfusion damage the organs, due to the lack of oxygen during the ischemia step, as well as the oxidative stress during the reperfusion step. Different methodologies are developed to prevent or to diminish the level of injuries. Preservation solutions were first developed to maximize cold static preservation, which includes the addition of several chemical compounds. The next chapter of organ preservation comes with the perfusion machine, where mechanical devices provide continuous flow and oxygenation ex vivo to the organs being preserved. In the addition of inhibitors of mitogen-activated protein kinase and inhibitors of the proteasome, mesenchymal stem cells began being used 13 years ago to prevent or diminish the organ’s injuries. Mesenchymal stem cells (e.g., bone marrow stem cells, adipose derived stem cells and umbilical cord stem cells) have proven to be powerful tools in repairing damaged organs. This review will focus upon the use of some bone marrow stem cells, adipose-derived stem cells and umbilical cord stem cells on preventing or decreasing the injuries due to ischemia-reperfusion.
A comment on: “Conventional and Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis and Application of Functional Materials: A Review”
Authors: Jalouli Behrouz , Abbasi Aref , Musavi Khoei S. Mohammad
Published: November 2019

In the recent paper published in Materials (Yang et al., 2019), there is a mistake in the explanation of crystal growth mechanism of the hydrothermal method. The error in this article is discussed in this short communication.
Effect of Centrifugal Shot Peening on the Surface Properties of Laser-Cut C45 Steel Parts
Authors: Skoczylas Agnieszka , Zaleski Kazimierz
Published: November 2019

This article presents the results of experimental studies of the impact of centrifugal shot peening parameters on the roughness, microstructure, and microhardness of the surface layer of laser-cut C45 steel parts. Residual stress distributions and the presence of iron oxides on the surface of these elements were also examined. Centrifugal shot peening tests were performed on an FV-580a vertical machining center while using a specially designed peening head. The parameters that were varied during centrifugal shot peening included tangential speed of the tool vg and feed rate vf. The use of centrifugal shot peening for finish machining of laser-cut C45 steel parts allowed for obtaining a four-fold reduction in the surface roughness parameters Ra and Rz. As a result of shot peening, the geometrical structure of the surface of the steel parts was modified and it acquired new beneficial features, such as large values of the rounding radii of the micropeaks and high material ratios (Rmrmax = 92%). At the same time, the surface layer was hardened (microhardness increased by 16%) and a compressive residual stress layer was produced on the surface of the workpieces. Additionally, as the shot impacted the processed surface, combustion products were “blasted” or “sheared” off it. Shot peening using the proposed technique can be successfully performed while using CNC machines.
Author Response to Comment on: Conventional and Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis and Application of Functional Materials: A Review
Authors: Yang Guijun , Park Soo-Jin
Published: November 2019

We recently published an article “Conventional and Microwave Hydrothermal Synthesis and Application of Functional Materials: A Review” on Materials, and we are honored to receive a comment article from Jalouli et al. We will give a detailed explanation for the confusion of the mechanism of crystal nucleation and growth in the comment article.
Anti-Bacterial Effect and Cytotoxicity Assessment of Lipid 430 Isolated from Algibacter sp.
Authors: Schneider Yannik K.-H. , Ø. Hansen Kine , Isaksson Johan , Ullsten Sara , H. Hansen Espen , Hammer Andersen Jeanette
Published: November 2019

Two bacterial isolates from the Barents Sea, both belonging to the genus Algibacter, were found to yield extracts with anti-bacterial bioactivity. Mass spectrometry guided dereplication and purification of the active extracts lead to the isolation of the same active principle in both extracts. The structure of the bioactive compound was identified via mass spectrometry and nuclear resonance spectroscopy and it turned out to be the known lipopeptide Lipid 430. We discovered and determined its previously unknown anti-bacterial activity against Streptococcus agalactiae and revealed a cytotoxic effect against the A2058 human melanoma cell line at significantly lower concentrations compared to its anti-bacterial concentration. Flow cytometry and microscopy investigations of the cytotoxicity against the melanoma cell line indicated that Lipid 430 did not cause immediate cell lysis. The experiments with melanoma cells suggest that the compound functions trough more complex pathways than acting as a simple detergent.
In Vivo and In Vitro Study of Immunostimulation by Leuconostoc lactis-Produced Gluco-Oligosaccharides
Authors: Lee Sulhee , Song In Ho , Park Young-Seo
Published: November 2019

Glycosyltransferase-producing Leuconostoc lactis CCK940 produces CCK- oligosaccharides, gluco-oligosaccharide molecules, using sucrose and maltose as donor and acceptor molecules, respectively. In this study, the immunostimulatory activities of CCK-oligosaccharides on RAW264.7 macrophages and BALB/c mice were evaluated. CCK-oligosaccharides induced the expression of phosphorylated-p38, extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and upregulation of phagocytic activity in RAW264.7 macrophages, suggesting their involvement in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway and phagocytosis. When CCK-oligosaccharides were administered to mice intraperitoneally injected with cyclophosphamide (CY), spleen indices and expressions of interleukin (IL)-6, IL–10, and tumor necrosis factor-α increased, compared with those in only CY-treated group. These findings suggest that CCK-oligosaccharides can be used as an effective immunostimulating agent.
Oleanolic Acid Acetate Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity via IKKα/β Suppression in TLR3-Mediated NF-κB Activation
Authors: Lim Hyung Jin , Jang Hyun-Jae , Kim Mi Hwa , Lee Soyoung , Lee Seung Woong , Lee Seung-Jae , Rho Mun-Chual
Published: November 2019

Oleanolic acid acetate (OAA), a major triterpenoid compound of Vigna angularis (azuki bean, V. angularis), has been shown to downregulate inflammatory responses in macrophages. Here, we show the molecular basis for the effect of OAA on Toll-like receptor (TLR) downstream signaling. OAA treatment significantly inhibited the secretion of embryonic alkaline phosphatase (SEAP) induced by polyinosinic acid (poly(I), TLR3 ligand) in a dose-dependent manner and without cytotoxicity in THP1-XBlue cells. In addition, OAA downregulated the gene expression of poly(I) induced pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines genes such as MCP-1, IL-1β, IL-8, VCAM-1 and ICAM-1. Furthermore, we found that the inhibition activity of OAA was accompanied by decreased activation of not only nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling but also mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling upon stimulation with the TLR3 agonist. Interestingly, the interaction of OAA with IκB kinase α/β (IKKα/β) strongly attenuated the production of certain proteins and inflammatory cytokines in the TLR3 signaling pathway, such as nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor, alpha (IkBα), extracellular regulated kinases (ERK), and p38, in an in vitro model. The action of OAA was regulated by TLR3, demonstrating that TLR3 plays a critical role in mediating the physiologically-relevant anti-inflammatory action of OAA and that the interaction with IKKα/β is modulated through TLR3. These results reveal new insight into the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of the downstream TLR3 signaling pathway and consequent inflammatory responses that are involved in the development and progression of inflammatory diseases.
Acute Ingestion of a Mixed Flavonoid and Caffeine Supplement Increases Energy Expenditure and Fat Oxidation in Adult Women: A Randomized, Crossover Clinical Trial
Authors: Nieman David C. , Simonson Andy , Sakaguchi Camila A. , Sha Wei , Blevins Tondra , Hattabaugh Jaina , Kohlmeier Martin
Published: November 2019

This randomized, double-blinded, crossover study measured the acute effect of ingesting a mixed flavonoid-caffeine (MFC) supplement compared to placebo (PL) on energy expenditure (EE) and fat oxidation (FATox) in a metabolic chamber with premenopausal women (n = 19, mean ± SD, age 30.7 ± 8.0 year, BMI 25.7 ± 3.4 kg/m2). The MFC supplement (658 mg flavonoids, split dose 8:30, 13:00) contained quercetin, green tea catechins, and anthocyanins from bilberry extract, and 214 mg caffeine. Participants were measured twice in a metabolic chamber for a day, four weeks apart, with outcomes including 22 h EE (8:30–6:30), substrate utilization from the respiratory quotient (RQ), plasma caffeine levels (16:00), and genotyping for the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs762551. Areas under the curve (AUC) for metabolic data from the MFC and PL trials were calculated using the trapezoid rule, with a mixed linear model (GLM) used to evaluate the overall treatment effect. The 22 h oxygen consumption and EE were significantly higher with MFC than PL (1582 ± 143, 1535 ± 154 kcal/day, respectively, p = 0.003, trial difference of 46.4 ± 57.8 kcal/day). FATox trended higher for MFC when evaluated using GLM (99.2 ± 14.0, 92.4 ± 14.4 g/22 h, p = 0.054). Plasma caffeine levels were significantly higher in the MFC versus PL trial (5031 ± 289, 276 ± 323 ng/mL, respectively, p < 0.001). Trial differences for 22 h EE and plasma caffeine were unrelated after controlling for age and body mass (r = −0.249, p = 0.139), and not different for participants with the homozygous allele 1, A/A, compared to C/A and C/C (p = 0.50 and 0.56, respectively). In conclusion, EE was higher for MFC compared to PL, and similar to effects estimated from previous trials using caffeine alone. A small effect of the MFC on FATox was measured, in contrast to inconsistent findings previously reported for this caffeine dose. The trial variance for 22 h EE was not significantly related to the variance in plasma caffeine levels or CYP1A2*1F allele carriers and non-carriers.
The Effects of a Whey Protein and Guar Gum-Containing Preload on Gastric Emptying, Glycaemia, Small Intestinal Absorption and Blood Pressure in Healthy Older Subjects
Authors: Pham Hung , Holen Iselin S. , Phillips Liza K. , Hatzinikolas Seva , Huynh Lian Q. , Wu Tongzhi , Hausken Trygve , Rayner Christopher K. , Horowitz Michael , Jones Karen L.
Published: November 2019

A whey protein/guar gum preload reduces postprandial glycaemia in type 2 diabetes through slowing gastric emptying. However, gastric emptying has previously been assessed using a stable isotope breath test technique, which cannot discriminate between slowing of gastric emptying and small intestinal absorption. This preload also may be useful in the management of postprandial hypotension. We evaluated the effects of a whey protein/guar preload on gastric emptying, glucose absorption, glycaemic/insulinaemic and blood pressure (BP) responses to an oral glucose load. Eighteen healthy older participants underwent measurements of gastric emptying (scintigraphy), plasma glucose and insulin, glucose absorption, superior mesenteric artery (SMA) flow, BP and heart rate (HR) after ingesting a 50 g glucose drink, with or without the preload. The preload reduced plasma glucose (p = 0.02) and serum 3-O-methylglucose (3-OMG) (p = 0.003), and increased plasma insulin (p = 0.03). There was no difference in gastric emptying or BP between the two days. The reduction in plasma glucose on the preload day was related to the reduction in glucose absorption (r = 0.71, p = 0.002). In conclusion, the glucose-lowering effect of the preload may relate to delayed small intestinal glucose absorption and insulin stimulation, rather than slowing of gastric emptying.
Oxaliplatin-Fluoropyrimidine Combination (XELOX) Therapy Does Not Affect Plasma Amino Acid Levels and Plasma Markers of Oxidative Stress in Colorectal Cancer Surgery Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Aquilani Roberto , Brugnatelli Silvia , Dossena Maurizia , Maestri Roberto , Delfanti Sara , Buonocore Daniela , Boschi Federica , Simeti Elena , Condino Anna Maria , Verri Manuela
Published: November 2019

Chemotherapy for colorectal cancer may lower muscle protein synthesis and increase oxidative stress. We hypothesize that chemotherapy may worsen plasma amino acids (AAs) and markers of oxidative stress (MOS). Therefore, this study aimed to document plasma AAs and MOS before, during and after chemotherapy in colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery patients. Fourteen normal-weight CRC patients were enrolled one month after surgery and scheduled for oxaliplatin-fluoropyrimidine combination (XELOX) therapy. Venous blood samples for AA and MOS (malondialdehyde, MDA; 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine, 8-OHdG) measurements were drawn in fasting patients before each oxaliplatin infusion at initiation (A), 1 month (B) and 3 months (C) of the therapy, and after XELOX had finished (6 months, D). The results showed that during XELOX therapy (from phase B to phase D), in comparison to baseline (phase A), the branched chain amino acid/essential amino acid ratio, branched chain amino acids expressed as a percentage of total AAs, and arginine expressed as a percentage of total AAs significantly decreased (p = 0.017, p = 0.028, p = 0.028, respectively). Plasma levels of MOS did not change significantly. This study indicates that XELOX therapy does not affect plasma AA levels or worsen oxidative stress.
Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Nutritional Status in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Escobedo-Monge Marlene Fabiola , Ayala-Macedo Guido , Sakihara Graciela , Peralta Silvia , Almaraz-Gómez Ana , Barrado Enrique , Marugán-Miguelsanz J. M.
Published: November 2019

Background: Zinc is an essential micronutrient for human beings and its deficiency affects their normal growth and development. Objective: The main aim was to evaluate the effect of two doses of zinc supplementation (ZS) on the nutritional status in chronic kidney disease (CKD) children. Methods: A randomized-trial multicentric study was conducted in 48 CKD (23 females) patients under 18-years-old, for a year. At random, participants took 30 or 15 mg/day of ZS, respectively. Anthropometric measurements and biochemical analysis were performed. Hypozincemia was determined by serum zinc concentration (SZC) using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The positive or negative change in patients’ body mass index (BMI) Z-score, serum albumin, zinc and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were used to evaluate the effect of ZS. Results: Mean SZC was normal before and after ZS. Despite ZS, there were no significant changes in serum albumin, zinc and CRP levels. A positive and significant association was observed between SZC and serum albumin before (p = 0.000) and after (p = 0.007) ZS. In both groups of ZS, there was a small but positive and significant change in body mass and normalization in BMI Z-score, hypoalbuminemia, hypozincemia and high CRP, especially with 30 mg/day of ZS. Conclusions: Zinc supplementation may be beneficial for nutritional status in children and adolescents with CKD.
A Review of the In Vivo Evidence Investigating the Role of Nitrite Exposure from Processed Meat Consumption in the Development of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Crowe William , Elliott Christopher T. , Green Brian D.
Published: November 2019

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) 2007 stated that the consumption of processed meat is a convincing cause of colorectal cancer (CRC), and therefore, the public should avoid it entirely. Sodium nitrite has emerged as a putative candidate responsible for the CRC-inducing effects of processed meats. Sodium nitrite is purported to prevent the growth of Clostridium botulinum and other food-spoiling bacteria, but recent, contradictory peer-reviewed evidence has emerged, leading to media reports questioning the necessity of nitrite addition. To date, eleven preclinical studies have investigated the effect of consuming nitrite/nitrite-containing meat on the development of CRC, but the results do not provide an overall consensus. A sizable number of human clinical studies have investigated the relationship between processed meat consumption and CRC risk with widely varying results. The unique approach of the present literature review was to include analysis that limited the human studies to those involving only nitrite-containing meat. The majority of these studies reported that nitrite-containing processed meat was associated with increased CRC risk. Nitrite consumption can lead to the formation of N-nitroso compounds (NOC), some of which are carcinogenic. Therefore, this focused perspective based on the current body of evidence links the consumption of meat containing nitrites and CRC risk.
Updating the Food-Based Dietary Guidelines for the Spanish Population: The Spanish Society of Community Nutrition (SENC) Proposal
Authors: Aranceta-Bartrina Javier , Partearroyo Teresa , López-Sobaler Ana , Ortega Rosa , Varela-Moreiras Gregorio , Serra-Majem Lluis , Pérez-Rodrigo Carmen ,   The Collaborative Group for the Dietary Guidelines for the Spanish Population (SENC)
Published: November 2019

Diet-related risk factors and physical inactivity are among the leading risk factors for disability and are responsible for a large proportion of the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases. Food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) are useful tools for nutrition policies and public health strategies to promote healthier eating and physical activity. In this paper, we discuss the process followed in developing the dietary guidelines for the Spanish population by the Spanish Society of Community Nutrition (SENC) and further explain the collaboration with primary healthcare practitioners as presented in the context of the NUTRIMAD 2018 international congress of SENC. From a health in all policies approach, SENC convened a group of experts in nutrition and public health to review the evidence on diet-health, nutrient intake and food consumption in the Spanish population, as well as food preparation, determinants and impact of diet on environmental sustainability. The collaborative group drafted the document and designed the graphic icon, which was then subject to a consultation process, discussion, and qualitative evaluation. Next, a collaborative group was established to plan a dissemination strategy, involving delegates from all the primary healthcare scientific societies in Spain. A product of this collaboration was the release of an attractive, easy-to-understand publication.
Multiple-Step Melting/Irradiation: A Strategy to Fabricate Thermoplastic Polymers with Improved Mechanical Performance
Authors: Zhao Jingxin , Wang Jiayao , Ding Xiaojun , Gu Yu , Li Yongjin , Li Jingye , You Jichun
Published: November 2019

To fabricate thermoplastic polymers exhibiting improved ductility without the loss of strength, a novel multiple-step melting/irradiation (MUSMI) strategy was developed by taking poly(vinylidene fluoride)/triallyl isocyanate (PVDF/TAIC) as an example, in which alternate melting and irradiation were adopted and repeated for several times. The initial irradiation with a low dose produced some local crosslinked points (not 3-dimensional network). When the specimen was reheated above the melting temperature, they redistributed in the PVDF matrix, which is an efficient way to avoid the high crosslinking density at certain positions and the disappearance of thermoplastic properties. During the subsequent cooling process, the crosslinked domains in the thermoplastic polymer matrix is expected to play double roles in turning crystal structures for enhancing the ductility without reducing strength. On one hand, they can act as heterogeneous nucleation agents, resulting in higher nucleation density and smaller spherulites; on the other hand, the existence of crosslinked structures restricts the lamellar thickening, accounting for the thinner crystal lamellae. Both smaller spherulites and thinner lamellae contribute to better ductility. At the same time, these local crosslinked points enhance the connectivity of crystal structures (including lamellae and spherulites), which is beneficial to the improvement of strength. Based on the influence of local crosslinked points on the ductility and strength, thermoplastic PVDF with much higher elongation at break and comparable yielding stress (relative to the reference specimen upon strong irradiation only once) was prepared via MUSMI successfully.
Estimation of Climatologies of Average Monthly Air Temperature over Mongolia Using MODIS Land Surface Temperature (LST) Time Series and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Otgonbayar Munkhdulam , Atzberger Clement , Mattiuzzi Matteo , Erdenedalai Avirmed
Published: November 2019

The objective of this research was to develop a robust statistical model to estimate climatologies (2002–2017) of monthly average near-surface air temperature (Ta) over Mongolia using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) land surface temperature (LST) time series products and terrain parameters. Two regression models were analyzed in this study linking automatic weather station data (Ta) with Earth observation (EO) images: Partial least squares (PLS) and random forest (RF). Both models were trained to predict Ta climatologies for each of the twelve months, using up to 17 variables as predictors. The models were applied to the entire land surface of Mongolia, the eighteenth largest but most sparsely populated country in the world. Twelve of the predictor variables were derived from the LST time series products of the Terra MODIS satellite. The LST MOD11A2 (collection 6) products provided thermal information at a spatial resolution of 1 km and with 8-day temporal resolution from 2002 to 2017. Three terrain variables, namely, elevation, slope, and aspect, were extracted using a Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation model (DEM), and two variables describing the geographical location of weather stations were extracted from vector data. For training, a total of 8544 meteorological data points from 63 automatic weather stations were used covering the same period as MODIS LST products. The PLS regression resulted in a coefficient of determination (R2) between 0.74 and 0.87 and a root-mean-square error (RMSE) from 1.20 °C to 2.19 °C between measured and estimated monthly Ta. The non-linear RF regression yielded even more accurate results with R2 in the range from 0.82 to 0.95 and RMSE from 0.84 °C to 1.93 °C. Using RF, the two best modeled months were July and August and the two worst months were January and February. The four most predictive variables were day/nighttime LST, elevation, and latitude. Using the developed RF models, spatial maps of the monthly average Ta at a spatial resolution of 1 km were generated for Mongolia (~1566 × 106 km2). This spatial dataset might be useful for various environmental applications. The method is transparent and relatively easy to implement.
Paradox Elimination in Dempster–Shafer Combination Rule with Novel Entropy Function: Application in Decision-Level Multi-Sensor Fusion
Authors: Khan Md Nazmuzzaman , Anwar Sohel
Published: November 2019

Multi-sensor data fusion technology in an important tool in building decision-making applications. Modified Dempster–Shafer (DS) evidence theory can handle conflicting sensor inputs and can be applied without any prior information. As a result, DS-based information fusion is very popular in decision-making applications, but original DS theory produces counterintuitive results when combining highly conflicting evidences from multiple sensors. An effective algorithm offering fusion of highly conflicting information in spatial domain is not widely reported in the literature. In this paper, a successful fusion algorithm is proposed which addresses these limitations of the original Dempster–Shafer (DS) framework. A novel entropy function is proposed based on Shannon entropy, which is better at capturing uncertainties compared to Shannon and Deng entropy. An 8-step algorithm has been developed which can eliminate the inherent paradoxes of classical DS theory. Multiple examples are presented to show that the proposed method is effective in handling conflicting information in spatial domain. Simulation results showed that the proposed algorithm has competitive convergence rate and accuracy compared to other methods presented in the literature.
Optimization of Flocculation Settling Parameters of Whole Tailings Based on Spatial Difference Algorithm
Authors: Huang Yanlong , Chen Jianzhong , Wang Chuanzhen
Published: November 2019

In order to obtain the optimum parameters of total tailings flocculation settling, an optimization method of total tailings flocculation settling parameters based on the spatial difference algorithm was proposed. Firstly, the input and output factors of the whole tailings flocculation settling parameters are effectively analyzed, and the relevant factors affecting the flocculation settling parameters are obtained. Secondly, the flocculation settling velocity of the whole tailings is optimized by combining the spatial difference algorithm with the mathematical symmetry algorithm, and the optimal value of the flocculation settling velocity of the whole tailings is obtained. The experimental results show that anionic flocculation has the best flocculation settling effect on the whole tailings. The optimal settlement velocity is close to the actual settlement velocity, and the error of settlement velocity is less than 3.5%. The results show that compared with the traditional method, this method is an effective method to optimize the flocculation and settlement parameters of the whole tailings.
MicroRNA Expression Profile in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes of Sheep Vaccinated with Nigeria 75/1 Peste Des Petits Ruminants Virus
Authors: Yang Yang , Qin Xiaodong , Meng Xuelian , Zhu Xueliang , Zhang Xiangle , Li Yanmin , Zhang Zhidong
Published: November 2019

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is one of the highly contagious transboundary viral diseases of small ruminants. Host microRNA (miRNA) expression patterns may change in response to virus infection, and it mainly works as a post-transcriptional moderator in gene expression and affects viral pathogenesis and replication. In this study, the change of miRNA expression profile in peripheral blood lymphocyte (PBMC) from sheep inoculated with PPR vaccine virus in vivo as well as primary sheep testicular (ST) cells inoculated with PPR vaccine virus in vitro were determined via deep sequencing technology. In PBMC cells, 373 and 115 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified 3 days and 5 days post inoculated (dpi), respectively. While, 575 DEmiRNAs were identified when comparing miRNA profiles on 5 dpi with 3 dpi. Some of the DEmiRNAs were found to change significantly via time-course during PPR vaccine virus inoculated. Similarly, in ST cells, 136 DEmiRNAs were identified at 3 dpi in comparison with mock-inoculation. A total of 12 DEmiRNAs were validated by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The oar-miR-150, oar-miR-370-3p and oar-miR-411b-3p were found common differentially expressed in both PPR vaccine virus-inoculated PBMC cells and ST cells. Targets prediction and functional analysis of the DEmiRNAs uncovered mainly gathering in antigen processing and presentation pathways, protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum pathways and cell adhesion molecules pathways. Our study supplies information about the DEmiRNAs in PPR vaccine virus-inoculated PBMC cells and ST cells, and provides clues for further understanding the function of miRNAs in PPR vaccine virus replication.
Viromics Reveal a Number of Novel RNA Viruses in Swedish Mosquitoes
Authors: Öhlund Pontus , Hayer Juliette , Lundén Hanna , Hesson Jenny C. , Blomström Anne-Lie
Published: November 2019

Metagenomic studies of mosquitoes have revealed that their virome is far more diverse and includes many more viruses than just the pathogenic arboviruses vectored by mosquitoes. In this study, the virome of 953 female mosquitoes collected in the summer of 2017, representing six mosquito species from two geographic locations in Mid-Eastern Sweden, were characterized. In addition, the near-complete genome of nine RNA viruses were characterized and phylogenetically analysed. These viruses showed association to the viral orders Bunyavirales, Picornavirales, Articulavirales, and Tymovirales, and to the realm Ribovira. Hence, through this study, we expand the knowledge of the virome composition of different mosquito species in Sweden. In addition, by providing viral reference genomes from wider geographic regions and different mosquito species, future in silico recognition and assembly of viral genomes in metagenomic datasets will be facilitated.
Analysis of the Saltwater Wedge in a Coastal Karst Aquifer with a Double Conduit Network, Numerical Simulations and Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Feo Alessandra , Zanini Andrea , Petrella Emma , Hernàndez-Diaz Rebeca , Celico Fulvio
Published: November 2019

We investigate the long-distance salinity in a dual permeability coastal karst aquifer with a double conduit network using a three-dimensional variable-density groundwater flow and multispecies transport SEAWAT model. Sensitivity analyses were used to evaluate the impact of the parameters and boundary conditions on the modeling saltwater wedge in a karstic aquifer situated in the Cuban land territory, including hydraulic conductivity, vertical anisotropy and salinity concentration; both in the conduits network and the fractured medium. These analyses indicated that hydraulic conductivity of the fractured medium and salt concentration were the ones that have a stronger effect on saltwater intrusion in a karstic aquifer. We also show results of the three-dimensional numerical simulations on groundwater salinity for different scenarios with the variabilities of the important parameters and compare results with electric conductivity profiles measured in a well.
ВЛИЯНИЕ ГЕНОТИПА БЫКОВ НА МОЛОЧНУЮ ПРОДУКТИВНОСТЬ И ВОСПРОИЗВОДИТЕЛЬНЫЕ КАЧЕСТВА ГОЛШТИНСКИХ КОРОВ
Authors: SANOVA Z.S.
Published: November 2019

Приведены результаты оценки быковпроизводителей голштинской породы по молочной продуктивности и воспроизводительным качествам их дочерей. Обработаны данные 563 первотелок и 45 быковотцов. В среднем удой дочерей за 1ю лактацию от разных отцов колебался от 6784 до 7789 кг, по содержанию жира и белка в молоке различий не выявлено. Большинство производителей обладали желательной степенью реализации генетического потенциала. Основной вклад в генетическое совершенствование стада вносят быки Altahessel Sex138929389, Altajupiter Sex 66011448 и ClearEc Altar2 62916235, достоверно увеличивая удой дочерей за 305 дней 1й лактации от 350 кг до 490 кг по сравнению со средними показателями по стаду. Уровень раздоя коров по 1й лактации достоверно обусловливает их дальнейшую продуктивность. У дочерей ClearEc Altar2 отмечена положительная корреляция (0,44) между удоем и белком, а у дочерей Бодо 354239752 (r0,68) между жиром и белком. Отмечены дочери с отрицательной коррелятивной связью между удоем и жиром, это свидетельствует о том, что в этих группах с высокой молочной продуктивностью отбор коров по жирномолочности не обеспечивает повышение белковомолочности. Самый короткий сервиспериод (98 дней) характерен для дочерей Магикон 536522893, наиболее длинный у дочерей Dinom Altatyson 66133528 и Short Cut 3504510619. Используемые быкипроизводители в хозяйстве реализуют свой потенциал в более сжатые сроки, что необходимо учитывать при дальнейшем их закреплении.

The results of estimation of Holstein sires based on milk productivity and reproductive qualities of their daughters are presented .The findings of 563 heifers and 45 bullsfathers were processed.on average, the milk yield of daughters for 1 lactation from different fathers ranged from 6784 to 7789 kg, theee were not found any differences in the content of fat and protein in milk.most producers had a desirable degree of realization of genetic potential. Bulls Altahessel Sex138929389, Altajupiter Sex 66011448 and ClearEc Altar2 62916235mainly contribut to the genetic improvement of the herd, significantly increasing yield of daughters in 305 days of the first lactation from 350 kg to 490 kg compared to the average for the herd. The level of milking cows on the 1st lactation reliably determines their further productivity. Daughters of ClearEc Altar2 had a positive correlation (0.44) between milk yield and protein, and daughters of Bodo bull 354239752 (r0.68) between fat and protein. Daughters with a negative correlation between milk yield and fat were noted, this indicates that the selection of cows by fat content does not provide an increase in protein content in these groups with high milk productivity. The shortest service period (98 days) are typical for daughters of Magikon 536522893, the longest the daughters Dinom Altatyson 66133528 and Short Cut 3504510619.sires, used in farming, realize their potential in a shorter time, which should be taken into account in their further consolidation.
КОМПЛЕКСНЫЙ ПРЕПАРАТ СИЛИМАРИНА УВЕЛИЧИВАЕТ УДОЙ, СОДЕРЖАНИЕ ЖИРА И БЕЛКА В МОЛОКЕ КОРОВ В ПЕРИОД РАЗДОЯ
Authors: GRIGORIEV D.Yu. , ZHMAEV E.A. , LEBEDEV A.A. , PIROGOV D.A.
Published: November 2019

Изучено влияние на коров предотельного периода и периода раздоя комплексного гепатопротекторного препарата ( препарат С ) на основе шрота расторопши (источник силимарина). Коровы опытной группы получали по 250 г/день препарата С за 21 день до и 21 день после отёла, в остальном содержание и кормление коров опытной и контрольной групп было одинаковым. В среднем (за период эксперимента, 5 месяцев) в сутки коровы в опытной группе дали молока 39,730,98 кг, что на 4,90,85 кг больше (Р0,01), чем в контрольной группе (34,820,78 кг). Содержание молочного жира и белка оказалось выше в опытной группе, чем в контрольной 3,710,15 против 3,140,13 и 3,140,13 против 3,080,09, соответственно. Выявлены достоверно более низкие значения билирубина в крови животных в опытной группе (1,510,31 мкмоль/л) в сравнении с контролем (2,130,31 мкмоль/л) и более высокие значения уровня альбумина в опытной группе (37,390,89 г/л) в сравнении с контролем (34,690,75 г/л). Содержание кальция (2,370,02 ммоль/л) в плазме крови животных опытной группы также превосходило (Р0,05) контроль (2,290,03 ммоль/л). Применение комплексного препарата на базе шрота расторопши дало выраженный экономический эффект дополнительный чистый доход на 1 голову за период эксперимента составил 27 175 руб. Применение препарата С значительно повышает продуктивность молочных коров, положительно влияет на биохимические показатели крови и является экономически обоснованным.

The effect of a complex hepatoprotective preparation ( the feed additive S ) based on Milk Thistle meal (source of silymarin) on the cows of the precalving and early lactation period has been studied. The cows of the experimental group received 250 g/day of the feed additive S 21 days before and 21 days after calving, handling and feeding of the cows of the experimental and control groups being the same in everything else. On average, per day, cows in the experimental group gave milk 39.730.98 kg, which is 4.90.85 kg more (P0.01) than in the control group (34.820.78 kg). The content of milk fat and protein was higher in the experimental group than in the control group 3.710.15 versus 3.140.13 and 3.140.13 versus 3.080.09, respectively. Reliably lower values of bilirubin in the blood of animals in the experimental group (1.510.31 mol / l) in comparison with the control (2.130.31 mol/l) and higher values of the albumin level in the experimental group ( 37.390.89 g/l) in comparison with the control (34.690.75 g/l). The calcium content (2.370.02 mmol /l) in the blood plasma of animals of the experimental group also exceeded (P0.05) control (2.290.03 mmol/l). The use of a complex preparation based on Milk Thistle meal gave a pronounced economic effect an additional net income per head for the period of the experiment was 27 175 rubles. The use of the feed additive S significantly increases the productivity of dairy cows, positively affects the biochemical parameters of blood and is economically feasible.
Watershed-Based Planning for Murrells Inlet: Source Assessment of Fecal Bacteria Using Volunteer and Shellfish Sanitation Program Data
Authors: Libes Susan , Young Heather , Newquist Daniel , Sledz Sue
Published: November 2019

A watershed-based plan was recently developed for Murrells Inlet, a moderately tidal, euhaline estuary located on the northern coast of South Carolina. One of the goals of this planning effort was to collate and analyze existing data to refine assessments of the sources of fecal coliform detected by SC DHEC’s shellfish monitoring program. Coastal Carolina University’s Waccamaw Watershed Academy (WWA) was engaged to lead this data analysis effort. The most important sources identified were urbanized wildlife and canines. Results from the data analyses were used to prioritize subwatersheds for remediation. This has led to proposed strategies that focus on interception and treatment of stormwater runoff as well as volume reduction, dredging of tidal creek sediments, and outreach education for pet waste control.